Half Marathon Training Advice

Running: some girls love it, some girls hate it. I don’t think I loved it when I signed up for my first 5K. I’ve always played soccer, so I was in decent shape, but if someone said the words “running” and “fun” in the same sentence, I would have probably laughed when I was younger.  By the time I was 22, my metabolism had slowed down a bit, and I wanted to continue to fit into my favorite jeans. So I actually got in to the whole running scene. Soon enough, I was running 6 miles and really enjoying it!

When I moved to Boulder after college and got an office job, I noticed people running at lunch. Sweating at lunch with no shower available after? Is that legal?! In Boulder, it for sure is haha. Running at lunch became the best part of my day, and soon enough, I decided to sign up for my first half-marathon. I felt kinda crazy and I was worried that training would suck the life out of me! Then I found the Hal Higdon program, and it seemed really doable, so I signed up for the Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon in Highlands Ranch, CO.

It was hard. Hills on hills on hills. I maybe almost cried at mile 11. But I DID IT! And honestly, I’ll probably do that one again.

SO, here’s my half marathon training advice for y’all:

1. Sign up! Just do it! Pick a race that you can get excited about. I knew I didn’t want to run on asphalt for 13.1 miles, so I chose a trail race.
2. Choose a training plan. I trained with Hal Higdon’s Training Guide – Novice 1 Program. The schedule isn’t too rigorous (it’s easy to get used to IMO!), and I made my own calendar and highlighted every day that I accomplished. When something is in writing, I have a harder time just blowing it off!
3. Tell your friends, family, and coworkers. Now you have a support system!
4. Take the time to make an awesome running playlist of all the songs you LOVE! Mine varies on my mood, but love The Chainsmokers, The Art of Flight playlist, Old Dominion, Kenny Chesney.. it’s pretty much all over the board haha.
5. Buy new workout clothes! I get ten times more excited for my run when I have new gear to try out! 

Shorts | Top | Socks | Sports Bra | Shoes | Gloves

If you are thinking about signing up for a 5K, 10k, Marathon, whatever, I’d tell you to do it! Once you’re signed up, the motivation to train is there. You’ve put money down. You’re committed.

My next race is the Horsetooth Half in Ft. Collins, CO. Ready to sign up for a race yet?!

Thanks for reading!

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