Running my first half marathon?

Question

Hello, I want to run my first half marathon. The most I've ever run in one go is probably 10 miles. Is it ok to walk during the half marathon without having to step out in the race? If my goal is completing, how much time am I given before the race usually closes? Is it looked down upon to run/walk this for the goal of finishing?

I've done many 5k road races but this is the first time I'll ever attempt this.. do I use racing flats or run in trainers?

Thanks so much!!!

Answer 1

Nothing wrong with walking a half marathon. I don't know what half marathon your running but I am sure there will probably even be a few walkers which is common. If you have run ten miles your only 3.1 miles away from a half marathon. Just keep running and slowly build your long runs to a half marathon distance. There usually a cut off time in half marathons so maybe check out the race. Usually those cut off times are pretty fair. You could probably walk the whole thing and make the cut off time. I would suggest running in your trainers your feet could be in some pain if you use flats.

Good Luck

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Answer 2

The race officials determine when a course closes, they would be able to tell you, but don't worry about that, you'll be way finished before that happens.

Don't worry about walking some of it if you need to, and don't let ANYONE put you down for it. A finish is a finish, if you covered the distance you deserve the satisfaction of doing it whether you walked or not.

I would suggest the trainers for your first 1/2. You might need the extra support they offer since this is your first attempt at this distance. Flats are light and don't have much in foot support for longer races, they are meant for shorter distances, and/or elites who are conditioned for the distance.

Good luck and Have fun!

Answer 3

Everyone has different goals. Personally, I believe in telling the truth. If your objective is to run a half marathon, then take the time to train appropropriately.

If your goal is to cover 13.1 miles without mechanical assistance, then come as you are, but don't try to fool yourself or others into thinking its running.

I don't look down on walkers, or dilettantes who leap into something without preparation, but I don't put them in the same category with athletes who have paid their dues in training and know they can do the distance before they pay an entry fee.

Race management decides when the course will be closed based on previous arrangements with local officials for road closures and public safety services. Every one is different. Contact the organizers for your chosen event.

Shoes: Most people don't use flats for anything longer than 10k, but that's an individual choice. You should know from your training what you can or should use. If you don't know, then the answer is trainers.

Answer 4

Use a racing flat when racing...

Use trainers when you are practicing. It protects your feet better. Health is also emphasized in running longer distances.
Emphasize on your 10-km race tempo. It'll be the baseline of longer race performance. Whether it be 10-milers, 13-milers ot 26-milers. Then for fast workout go out and run fast 3-km. on a manageable pace, tempo runs. On interval runs, do 5x1000m or around 8x800m. For your Speed endurance. For speed alone, do 10x400m or 20x200m. Do 3, 10-miler endurance run within your training periods and at least 1 x21-kilometer run so that you know what to expect when you run the race. Results would depend on the intensity you run the fast part of training. Train a minimum of 8 weeks. Put your longest run in the middle of the training preps or slightly nearer the race date, but not within 2 weeks range.

-Or ask tips from school coaches in your place.

Goodluck my friend!!!

Answer 5

You should be fine if you pace yourself and run at a pace that allows you to run the whole race. If you try to push it, you may have a problem.

You can calculate your max distance like this: The distance you should be able to complete on any given day is 3 times your average daily mileage.

Hope this helps.... good luck

Answer 6

Lots of people walk the entire marathon. If anyone looks down on you for doing it, that's their problem. I think it's great that you're doing it at all. Go for it! And have fun along the way.

Answer 7

Did you ever run your half marathon? Are you officially addicted now like the rest of us? ;)