How to Increase Your Run Mileage

Thinking about running farther, stronger, and more consistently? Whether you’re gearing up for your first half marathon or chasing a PR, increasing your weekly mileage is key to building endurance and confidence. But here’s the deal: there’s a smart way to do it—and a way that might leave you sidelined with injury or burnout.

Let’s dive into the strategies that will help you boost your mileage safely and sustainably.

1. Follow the 10% Rule

One of the golden rules of running: increase your weekly mileage by no more than 10% per week. So if you ran 20 miles last week, aim for 22 miles this week—not 30. This slow, steady progression gives your muscles, joints, and mind time to adapt and recover.

2. Add an Extra Day (Before Adding Extra Miles)

If you’re running three days a week, consider adding a fourth before increasing the length of each run. Spreading out your mileage across more days is easier on your body and helps you stay consistent. Bonus: more running days = more chances to build the habit.

3. Prioritize the Long Run

Your weekly long run is where the magic happens, especially if you’re training for a half marathon. Gradually increase this run by about 1 mile each week, and don’t be afraid to dial it back every 3–4 weeks to allow your body to recover.

4. Easy Miles Are Everything

Not every run should feel like a race. In fact, most of your weekly mileage should be at an easy, conversational pace. These relaxed miles build your aerobic base, boost endurance, and help prevent overtraining. Save the speed for your designated workout days.

5. Listen to Your Body (and Rest When Needed)

More miles mean more strain—so it’s crucial to stay tuned in. Feeling unusually sore, tired, or cranky? Back off. Rest days and recovery weeks aren’t slacking—they’re essential. Remember, progress isn’t just about adding miles; it’s about showing up healthy and strong.

6. Track Your Progress

Use a running app, GPS watch, or old-school notebook to keep tabs on your mileage. Tracking helps you spot patterns, stay motivated, and know when it’s time to scale up (or down). Watching those weekly miles stack up? That’s proof of your hard work.

Ready to Go the Distance?

Increasing your mileage the right way takes patience, but the payoff is huge: better endurance, more confidence, and a stronger finish on race day. And if you’re planning to conquer 13.1 miles in 2026, the Austin International Half delivers speed, support, and serious finish line vibes.

Train smart, run strong, and we’ll see you at the start line.

What to Do When You Don’t Feel Like Running: Tips to Get You Moving

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!

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Blaze’s Day Trip Picks: Escape the City, Keep the Vibes

Hey hey, road warriors and weekend wanderers! It’s your elemental hype-beast Blaze comin’ in hot with something a little different. I know we’re all about pounding pavement and chasing PRs here at the Austin International Half, but even the most hardcore runners need a change of scenery. So, lace up (or kick back), because I’m taking you on a whirlwind tour of epic day trips just a hop, skip, and a trail run from Austin!
1. Wimberley – Chill Hill Country Magic
Distance: ~45 min drive
Wimberley is the vibe. Think crystal-clear swimming holes (hello, Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole), cute shops, and that breezy Hill Country charm. Pack a picnic, dive into some water, and maybe do some light hiking to keep the legs loose.
2. Fredericksburg – Wine, Dine & Sunshine
Distance: ~1.5 hrs
Get your grape on! Fredericksburg is wine country with major personality. Stroll through the German-inspired town, hit a vineyard or three, and treat yourself to some post-run indulgence. Bonus: Enchanted Rock is nearby if you’re feeling like a granite-powered adventure.
3. San Marcos – Float the Day Away
Distance: ~45 min
Runners, meet floaters. Grab a tube, hit the river, and let the current do the work. San Marcos is laid-back fun at its finest, plus outlet shopping if you’re chasing deals instead of miles.
4. Dripping Springs – Sip, Snap & Savor
Distance: ~40 min
Known as the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” this gem has breweries, distilleries, and dreamy views for days. Hike the trails at Hamilton Pool Preserve (you’ll feel like you’re in a fantasy film), then toast to your health at a local craft spot.
5. Bastrop – Piney Getaway Energy
Distance: ~40 min
A forest in Texas? Yep. Bastrop State Park serves up pine-scented trails and a peaceful vibe perfect for a trail run or nature recharge. Grab a post-hike bite in the cute downtown district and snap a few pics for the ‘Gram.
6. Lockhart – BBQ Capital of Texas
Distance: ~40 min
Warning: You will be hungry. Lockhart is where BBQ dreams go to live their best lives. Whether you’re team Kreuz, Black’s, or Smitty’s, there’s no wrong answer—just a lot of smoky, savory right ones.
⚡️ Blaze’s Final Spark:
Every runner needs balance—sweat, recover, explore, repeat. These quick escapes are perfect for adding a little adventure to your training schedule or rewarding yourself after a killer long run. So grab your crew, hit the road, and make some fiery memories outside the ATX bubble.
Let’s keep it hot… but not too hot.
Stay lit,
– Blaze
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Bare Performance Nutrition Continues as Official Hydration and Gel Partner for Austin International Half 2026

Elite Nutrition Brand Returns to Fuel Runners at Premier Austin Race

The Austin International Half, formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, proudly announces the continuation of its partnership with Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) as the official on-course hydration and gel provider for the upcoming 2026 event, scheduled for January 18, 2026. This renewed collaboration ensures that participants will be fueled with high-quality sports nutrition throughout the race.

As the Austin International Half embarks on its new identity while building on a rich history, the steadfast support from Bare Performance Nutrition underscores a shared commitment to athlete performance and well-being. BPN’s comprehensive range of hydration and energy gel products will be strategically available along the race course, providing runners with the essential nutrients needed to sustain their efforts and achieve their personal bests on race day.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Bare Performance Nutrition for a second year,” said Megan Frausto, Partnership Manager of the Austin International Half. “BPN’s commitment to quality and performance mirrors our mission to support every runner with top-tier resources. Their trusted hydration and nutrition products elevate the athlete experience, and we’re excited to once again bring that value to our participants”

The decision to renew the partnership reflects the proven success of BPN’s products in supporting endurance athletes and the positive feedback from past participants. Both organizations are dedicated to delivering an exceptional race experience, and BPN’s reputation for science-backed, high-quality supplements aligns perfectly with the Austin International Half’s mission to host a world-class event that prioritizes runner health and performance. This collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of the race’s commitment to excellence.

“BPN couldn’t be more excited to continue fueling the committed athletes of Austin, Texas as the Austin International Half on course nutrition sponsor in 2026. We love the energy of this race, the course profile and the runners who show up to throw down. There isn’t any better way to kick off the new year and we’re proud to be a part of it.” – Nick Bare, Founder of BPN

 

 

About Austin International Half: The Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, is one of Texas’ fastest and most exciting 13.1-mile events. Established in 1995, it features a net-downhill course that winds through Austin’s most iconic neighborhoods and finishes downtown. Runners enjoy a high-energy experience with live music, enthusiastic spectators, and top-tier course support. With PR potential, great swag, and an unbeatable Austin spirit, this event welcomes runners of all levels. Learn more at AustinInternationalHalf.com.

About BPN: Our vision is to fuel performance and elevate athletic potential. We obsess over equipping people with the highest quality fuel, authentic creativity, and a team of committed people to Go One More. We are a brand for the committed. Those unwavering in the pursuit of their goals — never accepting mediocrity.

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SPORTS TEAMS LAUNCH ‘TEXAS SPORT FOR HEALING FUND’ AND NATIONAL AUCTION TO SUPPORT HILL COUNTRY FLOOD RELIEF

Thirty-Nine Organizations Unite to Aid Long-term Recovery Efforts for Communities Impacted by July Flooding

In response to the devastating flooding in Central Texas, 39 local and national professional sports organizations have joined efforts to launch the “Texas Sport for Healing Fund.” Starting today, fans can support relief efforts through a national online auction featuring over 150 pieces of rare sports memorabilia from more than 80 sports teams and players.

This fund will support both immediate relief efforts and long-term recovery for the communities directly impacted by the flooding. The auction will close on Friday, August 8 and all auction proceeds will support the Texas Sport for Healing Fund.

The following organizations, including representatives from multiple professional sports leagues in Texas, have come together to provide the initial funding:

  • Austin FC
  • Austin Marathon
  • Austin Spurs
  • Bryson DeChambeau Foundation
  • Cleburne Railroaders
  • Circuit of The Americas
  • Dallas Cowboys
  • Dallas Mavericks
  • Dallas Stars
  • Dallas Trinity FC
  • Dallas Wings Community Foundation
  • El Paso Locomotive FC
  • Faith Fight Finish Foundation
  • FC Dallas
  • Frisco RoughRiders
  • Houston Astros
  • Houston Dynamo
  • Houston Dash
  • Houston Rockets
  • Houston SaberCats
  • Houston Texans
  • Hunt Sports Group
  • The Jordan Spieth Family Foundation
  • Just Keep Livin’ Foundation
  • LOVB Austin
  • LOVB Houston
  • Meredith and Scottie Scheffler
  • NBA Foundation
  • NBA Players Association
  • Nolan Ryan Foundation
  • PBR Austin Gamblers
  • PBR Texas Rattlers
  • Round Rock Express
  • REV Entertainment
  • San Antonio Spurs
  • Texas Legends
  • Texas Rangers
  • Texas Stars
  • The US Tennis Association

This investment will better the lives of those affected by the flooding by providing long-term improvements such as access to mental health resources, community programming and the creation of safe places where young people can come together and heal from tragedy. Collectively, these teams have already contributed over $6.3 million to flood relief efforts to date, with funds going to support various organizations including the Texas Sport for Healing Fund. Spurs Sports & Entertainment (SS&E) is managing the fund in conjunction with San Antonio Area Foundation (SAF). A panel of representatives from the founding teams will work collaboratively with SAF, alongside Central Texas community partners and local organizations on the ground, to routinely evaluate and identify additional recipients as needs evolve.

Fans who would like to join the Texas and national sports community by contributing to the fund are invited to donate here.

 

National Auction Live Now

Community members can take part in the multi-franchise auction to drive visibility and support to the cause, featuring sports memorabilia and merchandise donated by over 80 teams. Teams from across the country, spanning a wide range of professional leagues, have donated over 150 items to the auction such as game tickets, autographed sports equipment, jerseys, game balls and more to be added in the coming days, as a show of the national sports industry’s solidarity and support for the Texas community in this time of need. All proceeds from the auction will go directly to the Texas Sport for Healing Fund.

 

About Texas Sport for Healing

Members of the Texas national professional sports communities have joined efforts to form the “Texas Sport for Healing Fund.” The fund will provide long-term support for Texas communities directly impacted by tragedy throughout the state by investing in the needs of youth and families who have been most affected. Together, we are Texas Strong.

 

Media Contact:

Tina Teich
Marketing Manager, High Five Events
Info@runaih.com