Click here to see what's in this issue

Half Marathon - 8 Weeks to Master the 21-K


The experienced runners will tell you that if you can run 10km, you can run a half marathon with just a little extra training. We agree, but preparation is everything and the simpler the plan, the better the plan. Here then is the perfect plan for you to master the half marathon.
comment

half marathon The half marathon is the most popular distance in South Africa because it's long enough to test even the most hardened ultra runner, but short enough for anyone to achieve. It’s also a great way to see if you’ve got the metal to run a marathon and beyond - no matter how long the Two Oceans and Comrades are, running a half is certainly a significant athletic achievement. Also add in that the training is manageable compared to marathons and ultras, and you recover quicker.

Whether you choose to run a half or a full marathon depends partly on time and commitment: How much time do you have to train? Marathon training programmes usually last from 12 to 18 weeks, with numerous long runs scattered throughout. In contrast, our half marathon training programme takes only 8 weeks, and it will get you to the finish line as well as ensure that you make it to the starting line healthy and ready to do your best.

Not only will you need to invest less training time while preparing for a half marathon than a marathon, your injury risk will be lower. Plus, you won’t need to worry about all those super-long runs on weekends, and there will certainly be less to worry about on race day. Many marathon veterans appreciate that half marathon training requires lower mileage, which means they can run those kays at a faster pace than they would for the marathon.

Get Started
Below you’ll find two different half marathon training programmes, each 8 weeks long. One is for novices and the other for slightly more advanced runners. Choose the one that suits your needs best and go for it.

Novice Half Marathon Programme

Experienced Half Marathon Programme


Comments:

2008-12-21 12:24:11
Christiaan: I have finished teh novice half marathon programme. Should I do the programme again or what should I do?

....................................................................................................

2010-01-11 12:42:50
Hilary: I am a walker and am doing my first 21k at the end of February, can I still use this training programme. Thanks

....................................................................................................

Comment on this story

/ Login to use this functionality /

  (2)






  Name:
  Surname:
  Email address:
  Address:
  Phone number:
 

TRAINING SEARCH


THIS WEEK'S POLL

You and a friend plan to run your first marathon together. She gets hurt. Do you run it without her?

No. We were meant to run it together.
Yes. My friend would understand.

INSPIRATION

.