1. Miles 9-11 are ‘make or break’ time
The half marathon may not have a “wall” to summit, but there’s no doubting that miles 9-11 are where PB dreams are made or broken. Dig deep, suffer now and celebrate afterwards.
2. It doesn’t require high-mileage training
Unlike the marathon, where you need to focus more on mileage, you can comfortably train for a half marathon on just three runs a week.
3. But you also can’t blag it
13.1 miles is a long way. Running that distance requires some training. Those hoping to just “wing it” on the day are setting themselves up for a bad experience. Respect the distance: put in the training.
4. Go easy on the gels
There’s no need to pack more gel than the Grease movie. If you’re going to be finished inside two hours, you can get by with one or two gels. Whisper it: some rebellious types will carry no gels at all.
5. Don’t train too fast
If your training consists solely of quick 5Ks, you may find that you struggle in the latter half of the race. Make sure you include a weekly long run where the focus is on distance rather than speed.
6. Don’t train too slow
Equally, if your training consists solely of one-pace plodding, you’re unlikely to finish in a quick time. The half-marathon requires both speed and endurance, so make sure you do some sharper runs midweek.
7. They’re a good beginner option
While the idea of running 26.2 miles is a pretty daunting task, the half marathon distance is a little more beginner-friendly. That said, if it is your first half marathon, prepare for the distance by entering a 10K race as part of your training.
8. Try tempo running
Defined as “comfortably difficult”, tempo running sees you running at about 75% of your maximum effort. It’s absolutely ideal for half marathon running as it will help boost both your speed and endurance. Aim for 10 minutes of tempo work to start with, and build it up from there.
9. Find your threshold
One up from tempo running, threshold running will see you working at about 80% of your maximum effort. These kind of runs are testing, both physically and mentally, but nailing them will hugely help you in your half-marathon.
10. Know the course
Is it flat and fast, or hilly and challenging? Knowing the course will help to prepare you for what lies ahead. There’s nothing worse than heading to a race hoping for a PB only to find there’s a huge hill about four miles in. Do your research and pick your race accordingly.
11. Beware: it may lead to marathons
Once you’ve completed your half marathon and the pain in your legs has subsided, your thoughts will turn ineluctably to the marathon distance. It’s like a gateway drug. But in a good way.
12. They’re the ideal distance
Equally, some people choose to specialise at the half marathon distance. And why not? Requiring less training and taking less toll on your body, you can run them fairly regularly and keep snipping away at your PB.
13. Bring some supporters
Knowing there will be a few friendly faces in the crowd can be a real boost on race-day. Position your posse where they’ll be most needed – probably around the 10-mile mark – and let their goodwill propel you to the finish.
13.1. Celebrate afterwards
No half marathon is complete without a little post-run celebration. Arrange to meet a few of your ‘supporters’ at a nearby pub and toast your success. You’ll have deserved it!
