How to Train for a Winter Half Marathon Starting This Summer

Thinking about conquering a winter half marathon like the Austin International Half? Smart move, runner! But here’s the catch—your road to that shiny finisher’s medal starts this summer. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just crossing the finish line, a summer training start gives you the edge you need for winter race day success. Here’s how to do it right, Texas-style!

☀️ Why Summer Is the Best Time to Start Half Marathon Training

Start early, finish strong. Training in the summer sets the stage for your best performance in a winter half marathon. You get to build your base, increase endurance gradually, and avoid last-minute stress when the weather cools down.

Plus, running through the Texas summer heat makes you tougher. Come race day in cooler temps, you’ll feel faster and fresher!

Your Summer-to-Winter Half Marathon Training Plan

1. Build Your Base (June–July)

  • Goal: Run 3–4 times per week

  • Focus on easy miles to strengthen your aerobic engine.

  • Gradually increase your long run by 0.5 to 1 mile each week.

Pro Tip: Start with a 3-mile base and build toward a 6-8 mile long run by the end of July.

2. Add Strength and Speed (August–September)

  • Introduce hill workouts and strides.

  • Hit the gym 1–2x a week for strength training (think squats, lunges, core).

  • Add one tempo or interval session per week to improve speed.

Bonus: Hill training in Austin’s Greenbelt or Mount Bonnell builds power and grit!

3. Peak and Sharpen (October–November)

  • Bump long runs to 10–12 miles.

  • Focus on race pace workouts to dial in your goal pace.

  • Taper the last 2–3 weeks to arrive fresh and ready.

Training Through Texas Heat

Summer training in Austin? We got you covered:

  • Run early or late to beat the heat.

  • Stay hydrated with electrolytes (not just water!).

  • Dress light: moisture-wicking, UV-protective gear is your BFF.

  • Cross-train indoors when needed—swimming and cycling keep it fun and low-impact.

Stay Motivated with These Summer Hacks

  • Join a local running group or club for accountability.

  • Sign up for a few shorter races like 5Ks or 10Ks to stay race-ready.

  • Map out scenic routes: Lady Bird Lake, Brushy Creek Trail, or the Southern Walnut Creek Trail.

Why the Austin International Half Is Worth the Sweat

By the time race day rolls around this winter, you’ll be ready to rock 13.1 miles through one of the coolest cities in the country. The Austin International Half is fast, fun, and full of live music, cheering fans, and unforgettable vibes.

Bonus: All that summer work? It’ll make winter running feel like a breeze.

Let’s Do This Together!

The journey from summer sweat to winter finish line glory starts now. Lace up, stay consistent, and let’s make this your best half marathon yet.

Ready to commit?

Register for the Austin International Half today and let your summer training set you up for a winter victory!

Austin International Half Joins Forces with Austin Marathon for RUN AUSTIN® Launch Week

2026 Race Registration Opens May 12 with Exclusive Incentives and Local Events

AUSTIN, Texas, May 5, 2025 —  Registration for the 2026 Austin International Half officially opens on Monday, May 12, marking the start of Run Austin® Launch Week. This week-long event will feature giveaways, local group runs, and exclusive promotions. 

Set for Sunday, January 18, 2026, the Austin International Half will once again bring together runners from across the globe to race through the vibrant streets of downtown Austin.

“Launch Week is the first step in preparing for a successful race weekend,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. “Launch Week gives runners an opportunity to commit early and take advantage of community resources designed to support their training.”

Throughout the week, runners can look forward to daily giveaways, exclusive offers, local group runs, and community  meetups featuring prizes and swag. Follow @AustinInternationalHalf on Instagram for daily updates and behind-the-scenes fun. To get in on every deal and giveaway, be sure to join the mailing list for the event here.

The following is the list of activities during Launch Week:

Monday, May 12th

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 3 One on One Virtual Training Plans from The Run Plan  
  • Register to be entered to win 1 of 3 BPN Endurance Stacks.
  • Group Runs:
    • 7:00 AM GOOD GRiEF Running at Noble Joe’s Coffee – 1620 E Riverside Dr
    • 6:00 PM Austin Tri Club at Mean Eyed Cat – 1621 W 5th St
    • 6:30 PM Change Run Club at Aussie’s Grill & Beach Bar – 312 Barton Springs Rd

Tuesday, May 13th

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 10 SPIbelts.
  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 3 Race Photo Packages from FinisherPix.
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:00 AM Morning Jo’s at Jo’s Coffee – 1300 S Congress Ave
    • 7:00 PM RAW Running – Mean Eyed Cat 1621 W 5th St

Wednesday, May 14th

  • Register and be entered to win a Paramount Theatre Summer Film Package.
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:30 PM Cooldown Running at Barton Springs Saloon – 424 S Lamar Blvd.
    • 7:00 PM Body Art Run Club at Lift ATX – 1005 Springdale Rd Unit 3

Thursday, May 15th

  • Register and be entered to win a pair of tickets to Blast.TV Major 2025 on June 19th at the Moody Center courtesy of Austin Sports Commission. 
  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 2 Spurs ticket package giveaways courtesy of the Spurs Sports and Entertainment:
  • Group Runs: 
    • 5:55 AM Sunrise Track Club under MoPac Bridge – 2102 Stephen F Austin Dr.

Friday, May 16th

  • Register to be entered to win 1 of 3 Fleet Feet RUN AUSTIN prize packages 
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:30 AM Fleet Feet Social Run – 211 Walter Seaholm Dr

Saturday, May 17th  

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 2 pairs of entries to the Maudie’s Moonlight Run benefiting The Trail Conservancy on June 5th. 
  • Group Runs:
    • 5:00 AM Rise & Run South Austin at the Salty Donut – 2000 S Congress Ave. 
    • 5:45 AM Gilbert’s Gazelles in the plaza across from Mañana Dos – 111 Sandra Muraida Way
    • 7:00 AM ATX Runners at the Lady Bird Lake Trail 0 mile marker – 676 W Riverside Dr
    • 7:00 AM Saturday Run Club at Champion Park – 3830 Brushy Creek Rd
    • 7:00 AM Team FX Sunrise in the Hills at Muleshore – 2820 County Road 414, Spicewood
    • 7:00 AM Twenty-Six Two Marathon Club at JLL Plaza – 1703 West 5th St
    • 8:00 AM Euphoria Run Club at Noble Joe’s Coffee – 1620 E Riverside Dr
    • 8:00 AM Phoenix Rising Running at Austin High School – 1715 W Cesar Chavez St
    • 9:00 AM 39ERS at Padel39 – 2510 Rutland Dr

Sunday, May 18th

  • Register and be entered to win 1 of 3 Fogo de Chao $150 gift cards.
  • Group Runs:
    • 6:00 AM Buda Running Club – 214 Main Street, Buda
    • 7:30 AM ATX Run Divas at Cosmic Saltillo – 1300 E 4th St
    • 7:30 AM Rise & Run South Austin at Opa! Coffee and Wine – 2050 S Lamar Blvd
    • 8:00 AM Plant Powered Athlete at Vegan Nom Food Park – 2324 E Cesar Chavez St

Monday, May 19th

  • Register and be entered to win 2 tickets to an ACL Live show of your choice courtesy of PNC Bank.
  • Group Runs:
    • 7:00 AM GOOD GRiEF Running at Noble Joe’s Coffee – 1620 E Riverside Dr
    • 6:00 PM Austin Tri Club at Mean Eyed Cat – 1621 W 5th St
    • 6:30 PM Change Run Club at ATX AKtIV – 2307 Thornton Road

The initial pricing structure is offered during Launch Week of May 12-19 and is as follows: Austin International Half Marathon $109 & Austin International Half Relay $189. Registration is available here. During Launch Week, participants will also have the option to add the 2026 Ascensions Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K  —for an exclusive rate as part of a limited-time combo deal, saving 10% off the standard price. Prices for all events increase after May 19. 

The 2026 Austin International Half, formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, returns on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Known for its net-downhill, fast course and PR-friendly reputation, this race offers a downhill route through north and central Austin, finishing downtown. Runners can expect a high-energy experience complete with a curated swag bag, unique finisher medal, and on-course support including live music. It’s the perfect way to kick off the year and set the tone for an exciting race season.

If you are interested in hosting a group run in your town please email info@runAIH.com to get added to the official launch week calendar. 

 

About the Austin International Half: The Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, has been one of Austin’s premier running events since its establishment in 1995. With a reputation for its fast and picturesque course, the race attracts runners of all levels from around the world. Organized by High Five Events, the Austin International Half is a celebration of athleticism, determination, and the vibrant running community in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit DownhillToDowntown.com.

About the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon®: Since its inception in 1992, the Austin Marathon® has emerged as a world-class running event, attracting participants from all 50 states and over 50 countries. With a course that spans every quadrant of this dynamic city, offering a festive atmosphere with live music throughout, the marathon culminates in a vibrant finisher party. The event also serves as a powerful force for good, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for various non-profit organizations. The Austin Marathon elevates Presidents Day weekend into a grand showcase of athleticism and community spirit, making it a bucket-list event for athletes, enthusiasts, and supporters from all over the world.

From 5K to Half Marathon: How to Make the Jump

So, you’ve conquered a 5K or maybe you’ve even tackled a 10K . Now, you’re eyeing the next challenge: a half marathon—13.1 miles of endurance, strategy, and determination. Whether you’re looking to push your limits, set a new goal, or simply experience the thrill of a longer race, transitioning from shorter distances to a half marathon is totally doable with the right plan. Here’s how to make the leap from 5K hero to half marathon finisher!

Step 1: Build Your Base

A half marathon is over four times the distance of a 5K, so increasing your mileage gradually is key. If you’ve been running around 10-15 miles per week, aim to boost that to 20-25 miles per week before diving into structured training.

How to Build Your Base:

  • Run 3-4 days per week – Focus on consistency over speed.
  • Long Runs are Your New Best Friend – Start with 4-5 miles and gradually build to 8-10 miles before official training.
  • Easy Does It – Keep most runs at a conversational pace to avoid burnout.

Step 2: Follow a Smart Training Plan

Jumping from a 5K to a half marathon requires a structured plan that balances endurance, speed, and recovery. A 12-16 week training plan is ideal.

Key Elements of Your Plan:

  • Long Runs – The backbone of your training. Increase your long run by one mile per week, peaking at 10-12 miles before race day.
  • Speed Work – Introduce tempo runs and intervals (e.g., 4x800m at race pace) once a week to build stamina.
  • Taper Time – Reduce mileage the last two weeks before the race to allow for proper recovery.

Step 3: Master the Mental Game

A half marathon is not just a physical challenge—it’s a mental one, too. Train your mind to embrace discomfort and push through tough moments.

  • Break the Race into Sections – Instead of thinking about 13.1 miles, mentally divide it into smaller segments (5K, 10K, final push).
  • Create a Killer Playlist or Listen to Podcasts – Keep your mind engaged.
  • Mantras Matter – Repeat positive affirmations like “Strong. Steady. Ready.”

Step 4: Fuel Like a Half Marathoner

Unlike a 5K, where you can power through on breakfast alone, a half marathon requires energy on the run.

  • Pre-Run Fuel – Eat a carb-rich meal 1-2 hours before running (oatmeal, banana with peanut butter, toast with honey).
  • Hydration is Key – Sip water regularly and experiment with electrolytes for longer runs.
  • Mid-Run Nutrition – Try energy gels, chews, or sports drinks around miles 5-8 to keep your energy steady.

Reminder: BPN will be on course on race day to keep you fueled with Go bars, Electrolytes, and GoGels!

Step 5: Prepare for Race Day Like a Pro

Race morning can feel overwhelming, but a solid plan ensures a smooth experience.

  • Test Your Gear – Wear your race outfit on training runs to avoid surprises.
  • Arrive Early – Give yourself time to warm up, use the restroom, and soak in the atmosphere.
  • Pace Yourself – Don’t start too fast! Stick to your goal pace and save energy for the last few miles.

Step 6: Celebrate & Set Your Next Goal

Crossing that finish line will feel incredible! Take time to celebrate your achievement—whether it’s a post-race brunch, a well-earned nap, or signing up for your next big race. Who knows? Maybe a full marathon is next!

Ready to go from 5K runner to half marathon finisher? You’ve got this!

Register now for the 2026 Austin International Half Marathon and make it official, Click here to register and we will see you at the start line January 18, 2026!

Blaze’s Favorite Spring Activities in Austin: Speed, Sun, and Good Vibes!

Springtime in Austin is electric! The sun’s out, the trails are calling, and the city is buzzing with energy. As a fiery spirit of speed and endurance, I’m all about making the most of this perfect season. Here are my top ways to stay active, have fun, and fuel that race-day energy in the ATX!

1️⃣ Running the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Lady Bird Lake, multiple access points – Try starting at Austin Central Library (710 W Cesar Chavez St.)

Nothing beats a sunrise run around Lady Bird Lake. The views? Stunning. The breeze? Refreshing. The energy? Unmatched! Whether you’re clocking in training miles or taking a scenic jog, this 10-mile loop is an Austin must.

 

2️⃣ Cooling Off with a Barton Springs Dip

Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Park – 2201 William Barton Dr.

I may be made of elemental energy, but even I can’t resist the crisp, 68-degree magic of Barton Springs. After a long run, there’s no better way to cool off, recharge, and feel alive.

 

 

3️⃣ Tackling the Greenbelt’s Trails

Barton Creek Greenbelt, multiple entrances – Try the Barton Creek Trailhead at 3755-B S Capital of Texas Hwy.

For those who love a challenge, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is the perfect mix of rugged trails, shady trees, and even some rock climbing action. Bonus points if you end your adventure with a plunge into Campbell’s Hole!

 

4️⃣ Cheering at Maudie’s Moonlight Run

Downtown Austin, race starts at 900 W Riverside Dr.

Spring racing season is on, and Maudie’s Moonlight Run Benefiting the Trail Conservancy, happening on June 5th is an Austin classic. Whether I’m running, walking, or just bringing the hype, this event is pure fun. Plus, it’s a great way to stay active!

 

 

5️⃣ Sunset Yoga at Auditorium Shores

Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metro Park – 900 W Riverside Dr.

Flexibility is key to endurance, and there’s no better way to stretch and recover than an outdoor yoga session with a skyline view. The sunsets, the city lights, and your muscles will thank you.

 

 

6️⃣ Refueling with Tacos & Cold Brew

Veracruz All Natural – 2505 Webberville Rd.
Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden – 121 Pickle Rd. #111

Let’s be real—Austin’s fuel of choice is tacos and coffee. Post-run, I’m all about a breakfast taco (or three) from Veracruz All Natural and a nitro cold brew from Cosmic Coffee to keep the energy blazing.

 

Spring in Austin is a runner’s paradise—so get out there, move fast, and make the most of it! Got a favorite spring activity I should add to my list? Let me know!

See you out there, blazing the trails!

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5 Ways to Stay Motivated When You’d Rather Do Anything But Run

Hey there, runner fam — Blaze here! Let’s be real: even the most dedicated runner has those days. You know the ones… the couch is cozy, the tacos are calling, and your running shoes look like they’re judging you from across the room.

But guess what? It’s totally normal. Motivation isn’t a constant flame — sometimes you’ve gotta relight it. So here are 5 fun, realistic ways to lace up even when your brain screams “not today!”

1. Hit Play on a “Run or Bust” Playlist

Music has magic powers — especially when you’re dragging. Make a go-to playlist that kicks off with a few songs you can’t not move to. Bonus points if it starts with some Austin favorites!

Need ideas? “Pump Up Running Mix” on Spotify is one of our favorite playlists – perfect for turning slow steps into a full-on jam session.

2. ‍ Phone a Running Buddy

Running solo is peaceful… but when motivation dips? A buddy can be your secret weapon. Set up weekly accountability texts or go full-on “run and brunch” meetups.

Not sure where to find your crew? Check out local Austin running clubs or meetups – the city’s full of friendly faces ready to sweat it out with you!

3. Make It Instagram Official

Okay, hear me out — post about your run before you do it. That simple “I’m going for 3 miles today” story can do wonders for commitment. Your future self (and your followers) will cheer you on.

Even better: snap a mid-run selfie with a classic Austin backdrop — like the Congress Bridge wall or that dreamy Lady Bird Lake view.

4. Bribe Yourself (In a Good Way)

Set up a mini reward system. It can be anything:

  • Coffee after your run? Yes please.

  • An extra-long shower with your favorite playlist? Do it.

  • That new pair of running shorts you’ve been eyeing? Earn ‘em.

Training for the Austin International Half is a journey — a few perks along the way make it sweeter.

5. Remember Your ‘Why’

This one’s powerful. Think back to why you signed up.
To challenge yourself? To celebrate a milestone? To prove something to you?
Write it down. Tape it to your mirror. Set it as your phone background.

When motivation fizzles, reconnecting to your purpose will reignite your fire.

You’ve Got This, Runner.

One off-day doesn’t define your journey — but getting out there despite it? That’s what makes you a rockstar.

So tie those laces, press play, and take that first step. Blaze is cheering for you — every stride, every mile, every taco you earn.