The fall racing season is upon us! As the race season amps ups, it’s a great time to amp up your training and workouts. If you’ve signed up for a half marathon, especially if this is your first time, you might be wondering how to train for a half marathon. We’ve got a few tips, tricks, and steps to offer as you get moving. These key tips will help make training easier and more effective. There are so many wonderful half marathon races in our area. One that we recommend is St. Pete Run Fest which takes place in November in downtown St. Pete.
What is a Half Marathon?
First of all, what is a half marathon? The race distance is 13.1 miles, or about 21 kilometers. For the runners and walkers who aspire to eventually do a full marathon, which is 26.2 miles/42 kilometers, a half marathon is a great race to ease into the full marathon distance.
Tips for Training for a Half Marathon
You might be wondering where to start in this journey, and we’re bringing you in at step one. We highly recommend starting with a great pair of running shoes. The best way to get those?
- Get a Proper Shoe Fitting – A proper shoe fitting is the essential first step when you start half marathon training. When you buy running shoes, a variety of factors will influence which model will be the best one for you. We take a full-body approach starting with your goals, your biomechanics, and your running history, including injuries. Our shoe gurus here at St. Pete Running Company will walk you through our one-of-a-kind StrideSmart Shoe Fitting.
- Hire a Running Coach – Why not get expert help? When you hire a running coach, they can tailor your workouts to your specific goals and needs. You can get expert advice on your running form to become more efficient and less injury prone. Plus your coach can evaluate your situation to create the best plan for your training schedule. We offer coaching options at St. Pete Running Company.
- Schedule Your Runs – Although there is no one-size-fits-all method for planning the runs you will do for half marathon training, one piece of advice we often offer is to make a schedule for yourself (or hire a coach to do this). If you schedule a run, you’re much more likely to do the workout. It can become easy to skip your run if it’s not on your calendar.
- It’s Okay to Walk – When it comes to half marathon training, there is no such thing as a walk of shame! Don’t be afraid to walk, especially in warmer weather. It’s a great idea to schedule walks after a longer run, too.
- Join a Running Group – A running group is a great way to gain accountability, and they are a lot of fun! You can stay consistent while enjoying camaraderie and encouragement. Plus you just might make some friends for life.
Join Group Runs at St. Pete Running Company
Looking for a running group to help you get started with your half marathon training goals? Join us every Monday and Wednesday at 6:30 PM right here at our store (6986 22nd Ave N, St Pete). We welcome all levels of walkers, joggers, and runners. It’s an awesome community and we’d love to have you!
Do you still have questions about how to train for a half marathon? We can help! Call us at 727-800-5043 or come into the store where our shoe experts are ready to provide the high-quality customer service you expect from a Top 50 Running Store in America.
