All About Half Marathon Training


It may so happen that the track of the marathon, as well as a half-marathon. Maybe the same, only the starting time would be different. If we look at athletes of a half marathon, we see that in the world for men’s record. It’s Abraham Kiptum (from Kenya) who completed the course in 58 minutes and 18 seconds in 2018.  In women, it is Netsanet Gudeta who completed it in 1hour 6minutes and 11 seconds in 2018. Kathrine Switzer, an American marathon runner, was the first woman to run for a marathon. And since then there was no looking back for women.

All About Half Marathon Training
All About Half Marathon Training

The participation has grown steadily since 2003 in half marathon for both men and women alike. The “Running USA” Reported that it is the fastest-growing type of race. The largest half marathon in the world was known as “Gothenburg” because it took place in Goteborgsvarvet in 2014. Nearly around 64000 runners joined the marathon while around 47000 were able to finish it. Another fantastic fact is that the oldest women to ever finish a half marathon is Harriette Thompson in 2017 at the age of 94.

Preparing For Half Marathon

As we say that everything under the sun comes in different shapes and sizes, so are races. Some of the standard “race” competition is 10km (6.21 miles), half marathon (13.1miles), marathon (26.2miles), ultra marathon (42.2km), etc. One needs to train continuously for three months at least before the competition, not just physically but also in a healthy way by taking nutrients rich diet. One needs first to set small goals, and when achieving it, one needs to go further and further to set higher goals. In this way, one should build up a base of running fitness. It’s never a wise option to have no training and directly jump into running and later dragging yourself through the competition. It’s important always to maintain a steady speed while training and then gradually increase the speed as one approaches the game.

Many people who have experienced would suggest keeping some faster running during the training. It would be better to approach a half marathon by first running for 10 km. Although in your practice, you would have built up the speed during the half marathon. It’s the endurance and stability that you have to focus upon. During the race, it’s essential to judge your pace. If you go out too fast at the beginning, it may take you long enough to finish.

Things To Keep In Mind Before The Run

All About Half Marathon Training
All About Half Marathon Training

Apart from physical training, it is also essential to take care of your health before planning to run a race. Keeping oneself hydrated is a crucial thing that one needs to do for such a long run as you would be running for nearly around an hour. Most of the marathon races will have fluids available during the course. It’s necessary to keep certain things in mind, especially for the women. As one takes up this rigorous task of half marathon, it may result in chafing of skin here and there.

To minimize it, one should wear running attire made of synthetic materials that help in natural evaporation. Avoid cotton clothing as once it gets wet, it takes a long time to dry out. Additionally, cotton is rough material, and moving against your skin may increase friction, and there would be more chance of rashes. It would be even better to lubricate your skin with Vaseline or body lotion before the race. So,  good luck!  You would do well.

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