Do I Still Have Time to Train for a Half Marathon?
Do I Still Have Time to Train for a Half Marathon? Yes, and Here’s How to Start Today!
You’ve decided you want to run a half marathon—awesome! But maybe you’re worried you don’t have enough time to train, or you don’t know how to begin. Good news: You absolutely still have time, and you can start today! No need to overthink it or feel overwhelmed. You don’t need to jump into an intense training plan right away—sometimes the best thing you can do is just start. Here’s a guide on how to kick off your half marathon journey right now and build momentum without feeling like you’re behind.
1. Get Out for a Run Today (Yes, Right Now!)
The first step toward running a half marathon is, well, running! The beauty of today’s workout? It doesn’t have to be long or intense. Your goal is to simply lace up your shoes and go for a run or jog. Here’s how to keep it easy and enjoyable:
- Begin with a Warm-Up: Walk briskly for 5–10 minutes to get your muscles loose and your heart rate up.
- Run/Walk Combo: If you’re new to running or haven’t been consistent, try a run/walk method. Start with 1 minute of running followed by 2 minutes of walking, and repeat this pattern for 20–30 minutes.
- Set a Distance or Time Goal: If you’re feeling good, aim for a short distance like 1–3 miles, or simply run for 20–30 minutes at a comfortable pace. Don’t worry about speed—focus on getting your body moving.
This first run isn’t about crushing records. It’s about taking that first step toward your half marathon goal. The hardest part is just starting, and once you do, you’ll already be one step closer to that finish line.
2. Start a Stretching & Mobility Routine
Running is great, but keeping your body flexible and injury-free is key for long-term success. After your run (or even before, if you’re not ready to hit the pavement just yet), spend 10–15 minutes on some basic stretches and mobility work:
- Hip Flexor Stretch: Kneel on one knee and push your hips forward to stretch your hip flexors. Hold for 30 seconds on each side.
- Hamstring Stretch: Sit with one leg extended and reach toward your toes, holding for 30 seconds on each side.
- Calf Stretch: Stand facing a wall, place your hands on the wall, place one foot behind the other, and press the heel of the back foot into the ground. Hold for 30 seconds per leg.
These stretches are simple, but they’ll help your muscles recover from today’s run and prepare you for the next one.
3. Commit to a Goal (And Write It Down!)
Goals give your training purpose, so take a few minutes today to define your half marathon goal. Is it simply to finish the race? Do you have a target time in mind? Maybe your goal is to run the entire race without walking. Whatever it is, make it personal to you.
Once you’ve set your goal, write it down. This small act makes your goal feel more real and will help you stay motivated. Keep that piece of paper somewhere visible—on your fridge, desk, or as a note on your phone—so you’re constantly reminded of what you’re working toward.
4. Pick a Date for Your Long Run
Long runs are the backbone of half marathon training, and they don’t have to be scary! All you need to do today is pick a day this week to go a little farther than you did on your first run. If you ran 2 miles today, set a goal for 3–4 miles later this week. It doesn’t matter how fast you go—just focus on covering the distance.
Here’s a simple way to get started:
- Day 1 (Today): Start with an easy run or run/walk session.
- Day 2 (2–3 days later): Go for another short run, similar to today’s effort.
- Day 3 (Later this week): Pick a day for your long run. Plan to run or walk/jog at least 1 mile farther than your shorter runs. For beginners, this could be a 3-mile jog/walk. For more experienced runners, it could be 4–5 miles at an easy pace.
By scheduling your long run in advance, you’re giving yourself something to look forward to and a tangible goal to work toward.
5. Fuel Your Body Like a Runner
As you start running more consistently, what you eat and drink becomes even more important. Today’s the perfect time to start thinking about fueling your body for success. You don’t need to overhaul your diet, but small changes can make a big difference in how you feel during your runs.
- Hydrate: Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day, not just right before or after your runs. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day, not just right before or after your runs. Dehydration can make even short runs feel exhausting. If you’re looking to mix up your water, try the BPN Electrolytes Hydration Drink Mix, with 500mg of Sodium per serving to replenish what is lost through exercise, sweat and daily movement. Dehydration can make even short runs feel exhausting.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to keep your energy levels high. Include healthy carbs to fuel your runs and protein to help with muscle recovery.
- Pre-Run Snack: Before your next run, try alight snack like a banana, a small handful of nuts, or check out BPN’s GO BAR Endurance Bar to keep you fueled while you are training.
6. Find Your Support System
Running a half marathon can be a solo pursuit, but it doesn’t have to be. Today, think about who can support you on this journey. Maybe it’s a friend or family member who can join you for a run or cheer you on. Or, consider joining a local running group, even if it’s virtual.
Sharing your goals with others makes them more real, and having people in your corner will keep you motivated, especially on those days when you don’t feel like running.
7. Plan Your Next Run
To keep your momentum going, plan your next run right now. Open your calendar and block out 30 minutes for your next workout in the next 2–3 days. Knowing exactly when you’ll run next takes the guesswork out of your training and helps you stay on track.
Get Started Now—The Rest Will Follow
You don’t need to dive into an intense training plan or know all the answers to start training for a half marathon. The most important thing you can do is take that first step. Whether it’s a short run, a stretch session, or simply setting a goal for your next run, starting today will set you up for success.
Remember, every step you take gets you closer to the finish line of the AIH. Whether you have 12 weeks or just a few, with smart training and a commitment to start, you’ll be ready to crush it come race day. So, what are you waiting for? Lace up those shoes, get out there, and start chasing that finish line. You’ve got this!
The AIH is all about community and growth. Starting your journey today means you’re already a part of something bigger—an incredible experience where every step counts. Happy running!
