Today’s post is all about training for a half marathon! When I mentioned on Instagram that I was going to train for another half marathon, I was asked by several of you to share my training schedule. So, today I’ll be sharing my half marathon training schedule as well as some tips I’ve learned along the way!
It’s actually kind of crazy to think that I am even writing a post about training for a half. I ran a mile here and there in high school, but didn’t actually start running until after college. In fact, I started with the app “Couch to 5k” to train myself to run more than 2 miles and now I’m training for my 5th half marathon!
I’m not sure how many more I’ll run, but there’s something about the runner’s high you get on race day that keeps me coming back for more! This year is the Dallas Marathon’s 50th anniversary, so I couldn’t resist running again. As of now the race is still set for December, but we’ll see as time gets closer. I know there will be a different set of rules to keep everyone safe during COVID, but details haven’t been sent out yet. I’m hoping to run the formal race, but we’ll see how comfortable I feel when the time comes.
Luckily, I enjoy training for the half almost as much as the race itself. I have trained with the exact same schedule for each of my half marathons and think it does a great job of preparing your body
Half Marathon Training Schedule:
Like I said before, I have used the same training schedule each year – the Hal Higdon Novice 2 training schedule. I like this program because it’s spread out over a 12 week period giving you time to slowly increase your mileage. The weekday runs aren’t too long, too, which is nice when you are a parent trying to find the time to squeeze in a run.
My husband, too, uses this same training schedule and loves it! I’ve adapted it a bit to just include the running part. I squeeze in strength training when I’m able to and don’t always do it on the same day. I wish I could, but mom duties call sometimes!
What I’m Doing Differently This Year:
Strength Training:
I added a bit of strength training last year and noticed a big difference in my running. This year I plan to add strength training twice a week minimum for my legs. Part of my strength training will be adding in the exercises I learned from physical therapy to maintain overall strength and balance.
Rest Day:
Resting is hard for me, but it’s one of the most important things you can do when training. A full 24-48 hour rest day gives your muscles time to get stronger and regenerate.
HITT Runs:
Many runners rave about HITT runs as a way to help you increase your pace. I’ve never actually done one, but think I will this time around. I tried one out via the Peloton app over the weekend and really loved it. I plan to do at least one HITT run per week this year and look forward to see how it helps me on my long runs.
The Most Important Running Accessory:
Without a doubt, the most important running accessory you could have is your shoes. A couple years back I wrote a blog post on the best shoes to run in and I stand by my post today.
The absolute best advice I have when it comes to shoes is to go to a place where they watch your gait and recommend shoes to you based on YOUR body and running style. I need a good amount of support so I run in Mizunos when I train. They’re the only shoe that truly supports my feet.
Last year I ended up adding shoe inserts in place of the ones my shoes came with to help with my gait as I pronate quite a bit. I was shocked at the difference it made and plan on using them again this year.
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