Half Marathon Training Schedule

Running a half marathon is no simple task, and requires weeks of training to be prepared for. A half marathon training schedule will be very helpful in maintaining the discipline and practice needed to run a half marathon.

Before preparing a half marathon training schedule, some advise being able to comfortably run continuously for thirty minutes. This ensures that your body is able to keep up and do the required amount of running to start serious training. Since a half marathon involves running 13.1 miles, it is necessary to be able to run at least 11 or 12 miles a few weeks before the final race. It is also equally important to lessen your practice running distance for the last two weeks before the race to allow your body to recover some strength and build muscle.

A half marathon training schedule does not include running every day. Running long distances every day is destructive on the body, as it does not allow any time for recuperation. Instead, only do practice runs every other day. Most of your runs should be 3-5 miles in length. However, one day a week you will want to aim for a higher distance, slowly working that distance up each week until just before the marathon. Be sure to start your training for the half marathon early enough so that you have time to do this. Taking too big a jump in running distance week to week can lead to serious injury or burn out.

Besides consistent practice and training, marathon training also requires running shoes and a healthy diet designed for runners. You will need extra nutrition to store enough energy to complete the marathon, and you won't be able to do so in uncomfortable, flimsy shoes. Marathons and half marathons are considerably difficult, and some consideration should be taken into account before participating in one. Consulting a physician is recommended.