8 Tips to Run Your Best Half Marathon
- Run with others.
- Give yourself rest days.
- Do some speed work.
- Do a training race.
- Work on your mental training.
- Finish strong during some long runs.
- Have a race plan.
- Race smart.
13 Mistakes Half Marathoners Should Avoid
- Don’t run a half marathon as your first race.
- Don’t enter a race if you’re not sure you can beat the cut-off time.
- Don’t forget to hydrate.
- Don’t give up.
- Don’t be unprepared for your long runs.
- Don’t ignore pain.
- Don’t skip cross-training.
- Don’t set a really aggressive goal (for your first half marathon).
- Don’t ignore rest days.
- Don’t cram for the final.
- Don’t start out too fast.
- Don’t try out something new on race day.
- Don’t discount your achievement.
13 Things to Know Before Running a Half Marathon
- You don’t have to run 13 miles before the actual race.
- You need to embrace conversational pace.
- The long runs may get boring.
- Chafing will happen.
- You’ll have to train in some bad weather.
- You don’t have to run every day.
- You’re not going to be able to eat whatever you want.
- You may get injured.
- You probably won’t finish last.
- You should practice running in your race outfit.
- There will be some bathrooms on the course.
- You should have at least a rough idea of your estimated finishing time.
- You don’t have to run the entire time.
6 Commonly-Asked Questions About Half Marathon Racing
- Should I Wear New Running Shoes for a Half Marathon?
- Should I Run the Day Before a Half Marathon?
- Should I Eat Before a Half Marathon?
- How Can I Predict My Half Marathon Time?
- Am I Allowed to Walk During a Half Marathon?
- How Can I Deal With Discomfort During the Half Marathon?
13 Reasons to Run a Half Marathon
- You’ll stay motivated to run.
- You’ll burn a lot of calories.
- You’ll experience lots of health benefits.
- You’ll have a lifetime of bragging rights.
- You’ll discover new running routes.
- Your training will have more structure.
- You’re less likely to get injured than if you trained for a full marathon.
- It’s not as time-consuming as training for a marathon.
- You’ll meet other runners.
- You can support a cause.
- You’ll get a medal (and a shirt).
- You can travel to new destinations.
- You can spend time with family and friends.
Tips for Running Your First Half Marathon
- Wear the right running shoes.
- Follow a half marathon training schedule.
- Work on proper running form.
- Maintain your motivation.
- Cross-train.
- Be prepared for your long runs.
- Run with others.
8 Tips to Make Your Long Runs Easier
- Avoid Chafing
- Stay Loose
- Rethink the Mileage
- Nothing New on Race Day
- Take a Walking Break
- Find a Running Group
- Run on a Softer Surface
- Staying Hydrated is Critical
Source : About.com