Whether you’re chasing that sub-2:00 milestone or simply want to feel stronger and more confident crossing the finish line, every second counts in a half marathon. And yes, even trimming just five seconds off your pace per mile can add up to a huge difference over 13.1 miles—think about it: that’s over a minute faster!

Here are five proven, runner-approved strategies that’ll help you unlock your speed, tackle that next PR, and, most importantly, have a blast doing it.

1. Train at (or Slightly Faster Than) Race Pace

If you want to race faster, you’ve got to train smarter. Tempo runs and intervals teach your body how to hold a strong pace, even when you’re feeling tired.

Blaze’s Tip: Once a week, make friends with discomfort. Start with a solid warm-up, then run 3–5 miles at a “comfortably hard” pace—where talking is tough but possible. Or, try intervals like 4 x 1 mile at your goal pace with a 2-minute jog recovery. You’ll be teaching your legs (and lungs) to keep pushing.

2. Build Strength for More Power

Strong legs = fast legs! But don’t just think about injury prevention—strength work boosts your running economy, so you can go faster with less effort.

Blaze’s Tip: Hit those squats, lunges, and deadlifts 2–3 times per week. Focus on full-body, functional movements. You don’t need a fancy gym—just 20 minutes of focused effort can power up your stride.

3. Fine-Tune Your Running Form

Efficient form is your secret weapon. It helps you conserve energy, especially when fatigue sets in during those final miles.

Blaze’s Tip: Keep your posture tall with a slight forward lean and aim for a cadence of 170–180 steps per minute. Check in with your form regularly—especially during longer runs. Even small tweaks can yield big results.

4. Plan Your Race Strategy

A solid pacing plan can make or break your race. Know the course, set realistic goals, and be ready to adjust as needed.

Blaze’s Tip: Break the race into chunks. Start easy for the first 3 miles, lock into your goal pace in the middle, and save that final 5K for a strong push. Remember – practice running downhill, form matters and efficiency on the downhills can really stack up on time.

5. Prioritize Recovery & Fuel

You can’t train hard without recovering smart. Rest, fuel, and hydration aren’t just “nice-to-haves”—they’re essential.

Blaze’s Tip: Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep a night, take your rest days seriously, and fuel your runs with carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Hydrate like a pro, and if you’re feeling stuck, consider chatting with a nutritionist for a personalized plan.

Final Thought: Every Second Counts!

Remember: taking even five seconds off your average pace isn’t “just five seconds”—it’s a game-changer over 13.1 miles. Your journey to a faster half marathon is built on consistent, deliberate practice, patience, and the belief that you’re stronger than you think.

At the Austin International Half, we’re cheering you on every step of the way. Let’s make that next race your best yet!

Let’s be real—no matter how dedicated you are, there are days when lacing up your shoes feels impossible. The couch is calling, your legs are tired, or you’re just not in the mood. We’ve all been there. But whether you’re training for your first half marathon or chasing that PR at the 2026 Austin International Half, staying consistent is key. Here are our best tips for pushing through when your motivation is MIA.

1. Start Small—and Just Start

Promise yourself just 5 minutes. Walk, jog, or shuffle—just get out the door. Chances are, once you start moving, the momentum will build and you’ll feel better than you thought possible.

Every step counts—start small and build your way to the finish line.

2. Change the Scenery

Run a new route, head to a park, or explore a different neighborhood. A change in environment can make running feel fresh again and spark that sense of adventure.

A new view might be all you need to rediscover your stride.

3. Call in the Hype Squad

Text a friend, join a run group, or check out a virtual running community. Knowing someone else is counting on you (or will ask about your run!) can be the nudge you need to show up.

Support and accountability can turn a tough run into a great one.

4. Make It Fun

Create a playlist that pumps you up, listen to an audiobook or podcast, or plan a reward for post-run—you earned that smoothie or coffee stop! Turning the run into something to look forward to makes all the difference.

When the run is fun, motivation comes naturally.

5. Mix It Up

Feeling burned out? Try intervals, hills, or even a short strength session instead. It still counts as training, and it keeps your routine from feeling stale.

Keep your routine fresh and exciting—your future self will thank you.

6. Remind Yourself Why

Remember your why. Is it crossing that finish line, improving your health, or enjoying the challenge? Visualizing race day (hello, cheering crowds and that epic AIH medal) can reignite your motivation.

Hold on to your ‘why’—it’s what gets you to the finish line.

Final Mile Thoughts

Not every run will be easy—but showing up, even when it’s tough, is what builds strength, grit, and confidence. So the next time you don’t feel like running, try one of these tips and see where your feet take you. And if you need a goal to keep you going, the 2026 Austin International Half is waiting—sign up today and let’s get moving!