How to Train for a Half Marathon

Training for your first marathon can be a big undertaking, packed with excitement, enthusiasm and drive. It will take dedication and adjustment to get there, but the payoff is great. Prepare your body by training for a half marathon.

Instructions

    • 1

      Book mark a web page that acts as a log for you to track your marathon training progress. It will hold you accountable and provide a convenient way to record how you're doing along the way. One site that offers such a service is coolrunning.com.

    • 2

      Complete a pre-training schedule that starts you off in a good place to begin preparation for a half marathon. You'll want to be able to complete the following schedule for 4-5 solid weeks as a pre-training schedule: Monday (off); Tuesday (3 mi); Wednesday (4 mi); Thursday (4 mi); Friday (off); Saturday (3 mi) and Sunday (5 mi).

    • 3

      Find a half-marathon schedule that best suits you. There are many available online and through books. Gradually, these schedules adjust your body to more and more running. They also introduce the Fartlek technique, which you'll use to prepare your body for different paces and speeds.

    • 4

      Plan to begin your training schedule 12 weeks ahead of the race day. Maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle in addition to your training. Drink plenty of water and get adequate rest.

    • 5

      Subscribe to an online newsletter for runners. It will keep you interested in the sport, and will provide motivation on your way to your goal.