There are many people who like the idea of taking on the challenge of running a half marathon.  If you are someone who rarely runs or jogs, taking a half marathon challenge is quite intimidating.  But this event is easy to complete and anyone, even beginners, can easily finish it.  For beginners, the half marathon will be something that you can perform.  this sport is so popular today because it appeals to everyone.  But, you still need to get your basics right including selecting a suitable training schedule that is designed for beginners.

 

There are many plans and schedules for half marathons online and in running magazines although most of these are designed for fit runners and not so much for beginners.  There are half marathons designed for runners.  A full training program might be difficult for people who are not really into running.  But training is important since every session that you complete including rest days will be repaid to your on race day.

 

If you are to join a half marathon, then you need to be able to at least run of job for 20 minutes nonstop without walking.  If you cannot do that then you need a standard schedule for training.

 

12 to 16 weeks is how long the scheduled training will be.  If you are attending a schedule for beginners then you will gradually build up the distances you are able to run.  A combination of running and walking is how you most people will be able to manage during a race.  Even if you use combination walking and running, what is important is that you training will help you get ready for your race distance of 13.1 miles, see details here!

 

During the start of the beginners' schedule there will be short runs that will gradually get longer and a lot of rest days.  The distances will get longer during the second third of the training plan.  You will also be encouraged to run faster.  Speed is one way of strengthening your legs which you will need during the race even if you are running slowly.

 

The final third will involve a tapering phase where the length of runs decrease.  You will be already at peak fitness once you reach your final stage, and it is at this point that the key is to maximize your energy levels and strength for race day. For more info about marathon, visit http://edition.cnn.com/2013/09/28/us/new-york-city-marathon-fast-facts/.

 

Finishing the whole half marathon training will equip you to be able to run the real half marathon race itself.  You don't expect to break any records but what you want to do is to finish the race and achieve your goals, learn more here!