1st half marathon!

chrissb8

I signed up to the Clontarf half marathon. Starts July the 5th. Really want to get it done in just under 2 hours. Go running (nothing serious) twice a week about 5km already. Need big pointers on how to go about training such as when to start. When to get serious about nutrition leading up to the event. What approach should I take to drinking alcohol in the coming months. I just need a general rough idea of what I need to be doing and when do I need to start doing it!

viperlogic

Loads of training plans out there but for a free one have a look at smart coach or Hal Higdon

http://www.runnersworld.com/smart-coach

http://www.halhigdon.com/training/51130/Half-Marathon-Training-Guide

RubyK

Here's a novice plan for half-marathon http://www.halhigdon.com/training/51131/Half-Marathon-Novice-1-Training-Program You'll be looking at starting this on week beginning Mon 14th April. Between now and then, try building up your weekly milage, slowly, and getting out at least 4 times a week.

Diet-wise, just make good choices, no need to do anything drastic. Oh, and don't try anything new on race day (food or clothing).


Edit: Sorry, hadn't seen that Viperlogic posted the same plan :-)

beertons

Best of luck with it. Clontarf was my first half, and I got it under 2 hours. My training was 2 10k runs during the week and a longer one of no more than 19k at the weekend. Running on sand was a killer for me, especially on the way back.

thomas anderson.

Hills hills and more hills.

I found that when I did my first half marathon and then full, that it was the hill training that built my endurance the most. Was passing people out left right and center

HelenAnne

Also, I'm not sure what all the plans say, or what more experienced runners will say, but I found getting my longest run up to at least 15 or 16 miles before my first half marathon really gave me more confidence on the day (I'd been aiming for under two hours too, but did my first one in 1.44. Was pleasantly surprised; I think the longer training runs helped.)

thomas anderson.

HelenAnne wrote: »

Also, I'm not sure what all the plans say, or what more experienced runners will say, but I found getting my longest run up to at least 15 or 16 miles before my first half marathon really gave me more confidence on the day (I'd been aiming for under two hours too, but did my first one in 1.44. Was pleasantly surprised; I think the longer training runs helped.)

+1