I'm not sure how much of a running background you have. I'm assuming you have some running under your belt already? I would wait till 12 weeks out from your race then start the program. Maybe follow a 10k program till time to start the half program.

Hello Everyone! I signed up to compete in the Little Rock, Ar half-marathon last summer. I have 2 more months until the big race day. I would love to lose 15-20lbs before then. Is there anyone in the Little Rock, Ar area that would like to train with me?

I just read this post - I sent a message asking if this was your first 1/2 marathon (disregard :-) I'm pumped. I keep looking at web posts about the race and it seems like a perfect environment for first timers.

Accoding to this 12 week program I will be ready for a half the weekend of 3/24 but my race isn't until 5/6...suggestions?

It depends on where you are already, but the training programs are designed to have you ready to run a marathon or half at the end of the program.

Personally, I'd wait to start it until the end coincides with the race date. I'd just keep up my normal training routine until it basically lines up with whatever week in the training program. Example:

I'm running my first half marathon race in Feb. I've run 13.6 miles on my own several times over the last couple of months so I'm not worried about actually finishing, what I'm worried about is the actual race day (meaning: running with 4,000 other people rather than running alone) and my time. But, since about August of last year I've been running 20-25 miles per week already. That lined up with the training program I'm doing on about week 7 of the program, so I'm just now starting the 'program' this week. I ran 14 miles in 2:27 yesterday, so I'm hoping doing a program can cut me down to a less embarrassing time. Hard to believe I'm worried about my time to be honest, this time last year I was almost 100 pounds heavier and couldnt walk up a flight of stairs without taking a break... but I'm hoping to run 13 sub 10 minute miles. Probably won't do it but that's my goal to shoot for.

Anyway, I have no idea if that's the best way to do it or not...but that's what made sense to me.

PS: If you are just now starting to train to run distances (I.E. over a 5k or so), take my advice: SHOES! They matter. Get your foot type (under-pronate, over-pronate, etc) and gait checked by a professional at a running store, not the teenager at the store in the mall. Buy shoes that are proper for your foot and gait. You can do this without spending tons and tons of money, but having the proper shoes makes an ENORMOUS difference. I cant stress that enough... plantar facitis HURTS. You dont want it...

Yay, Im glad you sent this to me!! I soo need it. My first half is in March, I am sooo excited yet sooo nervous! Now I will go back and read the comments! Oh and I am Stacey

I have done many half marathons. After my first one, I said never again. 2 weeks later I decided to train for a full marathon the next year. It was the start of many half marathons and 2 full marathons. I do the Chicago marathon in October and then kind of take it easy till the first of the year. It is just like I am starting over. Anyone can do it. Just build up slow and listen to your body. Once you cross that finish line, you will realize you can do anything.