Run with it!
Even if you've never done a race, you can train to walk or run a half or full marathon with our free training program.
If you'd prefer to do something shorter, or closer to home, go to active.com to find a race nearby. Next, check with your local parks and recreation department, community center, sporting goods store or Craigslist postings to find groups that are training for that event. Or, click here to find information about races around the country.
Start Training for The More + Fitness Women-Only Half Marathon in January 2010.
Our 16-week training plan, designed by coach Mindy Solkin, owner and head coach of The Running Center in New York City, will take you from the start to the finish feeling strong, healthy, and totally confident. (As always, get the all-clear from your doctor before starting any new fitness program.)
Along the way we'll give you all the information you need to stay inspired, from the best food choices to power you through your workouts to the most important exercises to keep you injury-free, plus motivational tips, race-day strategies, and more.
Which plan to pick? It all comes down to your current fitness level:
If you've never really been a runner but walk regularly and want to do an endurance event, start with our walk/run half-marathon plan. (pdf)If you can run two miles without stopping, train to run the entire 13.1-mile half-marathon distance. (pdf)
If you can run about five miles or for one hour without stopping, you can tackle the full 26.2! (pdf)
"Everyone who follows a dedicated training plan like this as best as they possibly can will succeed," says Solkin. Her less-is-more philosophy means you don't have to train every day to have success -- half-marathoners will go from two to four days a week; full three to five, depending on where you are in your training schedule. So set your goal, lace up your shoes, and get ready to cross that finish line!
For more detailed advice, click on the weekly programs.
Walk/Run Half Marathon week 1
Run Half Marathon week 1
Run Full Marathon week 1
