{"id":312,"date":"2018-11-01T20:05:03","date_gmt":"2018-11-01T20:05:03","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/carolineg1.sg-host.com\/index.php\/2018\/11\/01\/2018-10-30-10-ways-to-train-for-a-half-marathon\/"},"modified":"2023-10-06T14:42:08","modified_gmt":"2023-10-06T13:42:08","slug":"10-ways-to-train-for-a-half-marathon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/10-ways-to-train-for-a-half-marathon\/","title":{"rendered":"Training for a half marathon? These 10 tips will help you run your best race"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Your first half marathon is a pretty big deal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are so many ways to train for a half marathon, it can be hard to know when and how to apply them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The half marathon is one of the most popular race distances out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to a <a href=\"https:\/\/journals.plos.org\/plosone\/article?id=10.1371\/journal.pone.0191688\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2018 study<\/a>, the participation in long-distance running events has grown significantly in the last decade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The half marathon was the favourite distance, with amateur runners as well as elite runners taking part in events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite these stats, it can still feel really daunting when training for your first half marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You put so much effort into your training before the big day, you want to know that it will all pay off on race day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So what are the best ways to train for a half marathon?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With these tips, I hope you have the confidence to attack your first half marathon and come out on top on race day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4380\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20683%201024'%3E%3Crect%20width='683'%20height='1024'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4380 eager-load\" title=\"\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1.png.webp 1000w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Training for a half marathon? 10 training tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#1 Use a training plan<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is probably one of the most important first half marathon tips. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yet so many runners start training for their first race without a proper training plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of free half marathon training plans available online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These provide week-by-week runs and activities depending on your fitness levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you&rsquo;re a beginner, an intermediate or an experienced runner, there&rsquo;s bound to be plan that suits you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These plans can range anything from 10 to 16 weeks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&rsquo;d recommend going for a four month (16 week) training plan if it&rsquo;s your first race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each training plan will also differ in terms of the types of workouts and weekly mileage on offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key is finding one that fits in with your schedule and lifestyle and matches your running fitness levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For tips on fitting in running into your daily life, check out my post on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/how-to-fit-a-run-into-a-busy-schedule\/\">how to fit running into a busy schedule<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/best-half-marathons-in-the-us\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"12169\">14 of the best half marathons in the US<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#2 Get some miles under your belt<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s worth pointing out at this stage that any half marathon training plan assumes you already have a good level of running experience under your belt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;ve never run 5k before, then I&rsquo;d recommend you attempt something like a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/10-week-couch-to-5k-training-plan\/\">Couch to 5k plan<\/a> before embarking on your first half marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can quickly overwhelm your body if you go straight into training for a half marathon when you have little or no running experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ideally, you should have a weekly combined mileage of about 15 to 20 miles when you start your half marathon training plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/average-half-marathon-time\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"9063\">What is a good half marathon time? Average half marathon times by age and gender<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-683x1024.png\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4381\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-683x1024.png.webp\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4381 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1.png.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/32-1.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#3 Cross train<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Training for a half marathon doesn&rsquo;t mean you just need to focus on running for the next 3 to 4 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s important you include other <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/cross-training-tips-for-runners\/\">cross training<\/a> activities into your training plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&rsquo;d recommend you include other aerobic sports like cycling and swimming to build up your fitness levels and athletic performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s also good to include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/strength-training-workouts-for-runners\/\">strength training<\/a> and high intensity-interval (HIIT) workouts in your training plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned above, many half marathon training plans include these types of workouts &ndash; the key is to balance them these alongside your weekly runs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plan to do these workouts at least twice a week to get the most out of your training plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/cross-training-tips-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1172\">Cross training for runners: Benefits + 9 reasons to do it<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#4 Try tempo runs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/what-is-a-tempo-run\/\">Tempo runs<\/a> are when you run at a sustained, hard pace for a period of time, typically between 20 to 30 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are great because they help you build your endurance and boost your muscular systems to better deal with fast paces over long races.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A tempo run should feel comfortably hard, but you shouldn&rsquo;t treat it as an all-out race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The easiest way to determine your tempo race is to add 24 to 30 seconds per mile to your 5k personal best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The result should be about the pace you would be able to sustain for a full hour of running without needing a break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since including more tempo runs in my half marathon training plan, I&rsquo;ve been able to run at a faster pace for longer without feeling tired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When I first started training for half marathons, I used to hit a wall around the 10 mile mark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tempo runs are great to build your endurance and help get you through these tough times on the run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/best-running-workouts\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"7503\">7 of the best running workouts to build endurance, strength and speed&nbsp;<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-683x1024.png\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4382\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-683x1024.png.webp\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4382 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1.png.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/33-1.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#5 Try Fartlek runs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another way to build up your pace and endurance is to try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/fartlek-training-advantages-and-disadvantages\/\">Fartlek training<\/a> (also known as &lsquo;speed play&rsquo;).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A Fartlek run is when you run about 20 seconds slower than your 5k pace, followed by a slow interval at your easy, long run pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The benefit of Fartlek is that it teaches your body to learn how to speed up and\/or slow down when needed during the race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is important as it gets you used to running at a faster pace and helps to increase your stamina and endurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/running-drills-to-improve-form-and-performance\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4607\">7 essential running form drills for beginners to improve speed and endurance<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#6 Take care of your body<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although running has a lot of health benefits, training for a half marathon can be hard on your muscles and joints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s important to know when to rest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Listen to your body and don&rsquo;t push yourself too hard regularly as this could lead to burnout and injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use a foam roller, remember to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/how-to-warm-up-before-a-run\/\">warm up before your run<\/a> and cool down after your run, and stay hydrated!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I try and drink at least two litres of water every day when training for a half marathon as you&rsquo;ll be using a lot of fluids through sweating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s important to have a proper recovery strategy in place when training for a half marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/fat-protein-efficient\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10892\">Fat protein efficient vs. carbohydrate efficient, which is best for you?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-683x1024.png\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4383\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-683x1024.png.webp\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4383 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34.png.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/34.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#7 Fuel your body<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It sounds obvious, but food plays a large part in my training plan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Try and eat the right foods and, equally as important, the right amount of food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Training for a half marathon burns a lot of calories and energy, so you need to make sure you&rsquo;re replenishing these through food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, running doesn&rsquo;t give you a golden ticket to eat unhealthy, fast food. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite the increased amounts of carbs in your diet, you still have to maintain a healthy lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can sometimes be hard, especially when you have a 9-5 job and a family to look after.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key is balance! Allow yourself a treat once in a while.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re wanting to find out more, check out my post on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/what-to-eat-before-a-run\/\">what to eat before a run<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&rsquo;ve also written a guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/the-best-protein-food-for-runners\/\">protein for runners<\/a> as protein is essential for muscle repair for recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/carb-loading-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6648\">Carb loading for runners: Foods to eat and mistakes to avoid<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#8 Join a running group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&rsquo;s a lot to be said for running with friends or a local running group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They provide an incredible support network and are a great source of motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on your needs, you can either look to join an athletics club affiliated run group, or a community-led run group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most groups are free and can be found on websites like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.meetup.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Meetup<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/runtogether.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">RunTogether<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/running-clubs\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"12005\">10 running clubs changing the world one step at a time<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4380\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png.webp\" alt=\"ways to train for a half marathon\" class=\"wp-image-4380 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-683x1024.png.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-200x300.png.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1-768x1152.png.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1.png.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/31-1.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#9 Find a running coach<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;d like more hands-on support when training for your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/first-half-marathon-tips\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"158\">first half marathon<\/a>, consider finding a running coach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is probably one of the most neglected ways to train for a half marathon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Contrary to popular belief, you don&rsquo;t need to be an elite athlete to benefit from the services of a running coach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A running coach can help you define and meet your goals, and can help you stay consistent and motivated in the lead up to the race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the type of running coach you find, they could also advice you on nutrition and fuelling your training plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowledge, experience and personality are all things to keep in mind when finding the best running coach for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also pays to check which distance they specialise in. Not all running coaches specialise in longer distances like half marathons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do your research and hopefully you can find the right person for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/first-half-marathon-tips\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"158\">First half marathon tips: 11 things I wish I&rsquo;d known before running my first half marathon<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#10 Enjoy it and have fun!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Running a half marathon is a one hell of a challenge! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I still remember how incredibly proud I felt when I crossed the finish line at my first half marathon &ndash; months of blood, sweat and tears had all paid off!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s easy to forget that training for a half marathon can actually be fun! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is often one of the most neglected ways to train for a half marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you&rsquo;re so focused on running your best race, the fun and enjoyment can easily take a back seat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It doesn&rsquo;t have to be this way though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember that it&rsquo;s just a race and treat it like any other run to take away some of the pressure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you get more running experience under your belt, this will soon become second nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out my blog on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/6-tips-to-keep-running-fun\/\">how to keep running fun<\/a> for more tips and advice when the pressure gets too much. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After all, having fun is one the best ways to train for a half marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How do you like to train for a half marathon? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you have any tips to share when running a half marathon? Comment below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/intermediate-half-marathon-training-plan\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"8327\">Intermediate half marathon training plan: Week by week plan + printable<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"\n  summary-block-wrapper\n\n  summary-block-collection-type-blog\n\n  summary-block-setting-text-size-medium\n  summary-block-setting-text-align-left\n\n  summary-block-setting-design-carousel\n  summary-block-setting-design-list-thumbnail-left\n\n  summary-block-setting-metadata-position-above-title\n  summary-block-setting-primary-metadata-date\n  summary-block-setting-secondary-metadata-none\n\n  summary-block-setting-show-thumbnail\n  summary-block-setting-show-title\n  summary-block-setting-show-price\n  summary-block-setting-hide-excerpt\n\n  sqs-gallery-design-carousel\n\n  \">\n<div class=\"summary-item-list-container sqs-gallery-container\">\n<div class=\"summary-item-list sqs-gallery\">\n<div class=\"\n          summary-item\n          summary-item-record-type-text\n          sqs-gallery-design-carousel-slide\n\n           summary-item-has-thumbnail\n\n          summary-item-has-cats\n          summary-item-has-tags\n          summary-item-has-author\n          summary-item-has-comments-enabled\n          \">\n<p><!-- End .summary-content --><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- End .summary-item --><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- End .summary-item-list --><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- End .summary-item-list-container --><\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your first half marathon is a pretty big deal. There are so many ways to train for a half marathon, it can be hard to know when and how to apply them. The half marathon is one of the most popular race distances out there. According to a 2018 study, the participation in long-distance running &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3688,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[58],"tags":[],"mv":{"thumbnail_id":3688,"thumbnail_uri":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/66-300x300.png"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/312"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=312"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/312\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13264,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/312\/revisions\/13264"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3688"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=312"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=312"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=312"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}