5 Tips for a Successful Half Marathon

1. Get the Right Half Marathon Program

Make sure the plan that you choose is aligned with your half marathon training goals. Each training plan consists of different mileages and workouts, depending on the goal: a first endurance race, a designated finish time, or a negative split race. Choosing the proper training plan will make sure you get to the finish line healthy and prepared, whatever your goal!

2) Fuel & Hydration for a Half Marathon

Your body can store about an hour’s worth of fuel for an endurance race. It is important to experiment with what works best for your body. There are many nutrition options to choose from, including gels, chews, beans, and even hydration that is also a fuel! You can go all natural, organic, sugar free, with caffeine, without caffeine. Whatever you decide to use on race day, make sure you’ve used it before! You don’t want to run into GI issues out on the course!

Want to learn more about long run nutrition, check out Fueling for the Long Run.

3. Dress for 10-15 Degrees Warmer than Race Day Temperature

Fall can be a challenge for half marathon training because runners start to train in the hot and humid summer months and end their training when the weather is cool, dry, and comfortable. Regardless of the temperatures, dress for 10-15 degrees warmer than what the thermometer reads. Trust us, you will warm up! (Pro tip: Stay away from cotton! You want breathable and wicking clothing. Check out our Layering for Fall for more info)

4. Run the Race Course in Advance

If you are local, take the opportunity to run the course. In the case of Seacoast Half, there is a large downhill towards the beginning as well as some stretches that are prone to headwinds, not to mention the last little incline up towards the finish that will feel a bit steeper on tired legs. Why not take advantage of training on the home course?

5. Don’t Forget your Cross Training

Sometimes, runners just like to run. However, adding in some cross training and core work will make your runs easier and more enjoyable. Being healthy at the start of a race is vital. To keep you injury free, cross training such as yoga, boot camps, elliptical, spinning will help your body reach that goal. Don’t forget to incorporate some core strength work. A strong core allows for the body to maintain good form as well as allows for the proper muscles to work as they are supposed to!