subject: What Is A Half-marathon Training Program [print this page] A half-marathon training program is done to prepare runners for half-marathon races. Why do half-marathons? This is because this race offers a worthy, but a still doable marathon that only takes 12 weeks to prepare in comparison to a full marathon training program.
Half-marathon races are the hottest thing right now, given that the new breed of racers are done with several 5k-10k marathons. A half-marathon is an upgrade to the next level in a runner's career. In addition, it's also a stepping stone and an opportunity to start joining longer marathons in the future, or not - just kidding!
But seriously speaking, a half marathon can and will give you the experience; this is where you will find out if you are physically and mentally ready for a longer distance running challenge; it's the perfect "dress rehearsal" as how veterans would put it. Ultimately, the best thing about half-marathons is that unlike the full marathon (26.2 miles) where you're left, drained out of energy for a month, a half-marathon can help boost your endurance, and in as little as a week, you can get back on track again.
Should you still do any training for half-marathons? Of course! There's nothing more challenging and exciting than being prepared and surviving the race without any injuries while having fun with other runners. If you're excited as much as we do, then let's start discussing the half-marathon training program.
There are four things that you must do during the half-marathon training program. These are 1) Rest, 2) Easy Runs, 3) Long Runs, and 4) Speedwork. After this training program, I'm pretty sure you will be all set to take the stage and run the half-marathon challenge.
Rest. Whoever came up with the idea that this training will not have any rest days never experienced a good ol' running break. Rest days are the times where you are not only preparing mentally, but also physically. Go on for straight 12 weeks without any rest and you'll see where fatigue takes you. Experts recommend two quality days of relaxation.
Easy Runs. Get the half marathon training program nice and easy. And, easy running means you are more relaxed and in control with your running speed, breathing, etc. You know when you're easy running if you can still converse with your running buddy without any difficulty. The moment you feel that you want to go faster, take charge. Either way, fast or slow you will still burn calories if that's what you're worried about. Enjoy the easy run as you progress to the next level.
Long Runs. Long runs are included in a half-marathon training programs to let you work in your endurance. What do you do during long runs? Well, it's a steady run done at a longer race distance to help you get used with the long stretch. This way, you will not feel easily tired and your body will feel more at ease as you increase your distance.
Speedwork. This is for you to keep it fun while improving your cardiac strength and running economy. Train for your speedwork by increasing your speed more than your usual or average speed. But, don't go too hard on yourself, be sure to stop and take a rest once you've reached your goal.
A half-marathon training program, as you can read above, is a lot easier compared to the full marathon, not the other is harder - full marathons just need extra time and work to prepare. But hey, like what we mentioned, half-marathons are stepping stones. It doesn't necessarily mean that you have to move on the full-marathon once you realize that you can survive the half race. Keep in mind that it all takes time and when you mind and body is ready, then you can move to the next level.
