Training
There are many very good websites, articles, and books about marathon and half marathon training. If this is your first time training for either of these races, it is essential that you train sensibly. Be sure to stretch regularly, warm up before runs, cool down after runs, and give your body time to recover between runs. Above all, listen to your body.
Training for the 26.2 mile marathon requires 4 months of consistent and time-intensive preparation after establishing a base of running a few times a week for several months. If you do not have that much time or conditioning before the race or if you are not an experienced marathoner, you would be well advised to run or walk the half marathon.
The half marathon will cover the same scenic course as the full marathon, but only once. Training for the half will require a basic level of fitness and at least 12 weeks of training.
Although there are several excellent sources for training plans, the Hal Higdon training programs are arguably the most comprehensive and accessible, and there are plans for every level of running experience. For his complete web package click here.
If this is your first half marathon please consider following the Novice 1 program. This program typically involves 3-4 runs and 2 days of cross training (cycling, swimming or walking) each week in addition to stretching and moderate strength training. To allow 12 weeks of training you should begin week 1 of the program on September 17. Prior to that you should work up to a base of three 3-mile runs per week.
If you feel you are not ready to train for a 13.1 mile run, it's OK to walk part or all of the distance. It will still require setting a goal and a commitment to training, and getting to the finish can be every bit as satisfying. For the half marathon walk program click here.
Whatever race you choose and whichever way you choose to finish it, it is important to realize that you will be running in a tropical climate. Click here for tips on running in heat.
Training for the 26.2 mile marathon requires 4 months of consistent and time-intensive preparation after establishing a base of running a few times a week for several months. If you do not have that much time or conditioning before the race or if you are not an experienced marathoner, you would be well advised to run or walk the half marathon.
The half marathon will cover the same scenic course as the full marathon, but only once. Training for the half will require a basic level of fitness and at least 12 weeks of training.
Although there are several excellent sources for training plans, the Hal Higdon training programs are arguably the most comprehensive and accessible, and there are plans for every level of running experience. For his complete web package click here.
If this is your first half marathon please consider following the Novice 1 program. This program typically involves 3-4 runs and 2 days of cross training (cycling, swimming or walking) each week in addition to stretching and moderate strength training. To allow 12 weeks of training you should begin week 1 of the program on September 17. Prior to that you should work up to a base of three 3-mile runs per week.
If you feel you are not ready to train for a 13.1 mile run, it's OK to walk part or all of the distance. It will still require setting a goal and a commitment to training, and getting to the finish can be every bit as satisfying. For the half marathon walk program click here.
Whatever race you choose and whichever way you choose to finish it, it is important to realize that you will be running in a tropical climate. Click here for tips on running in heat.
