Thinking about running a half marathon or want to remind yourself of why you signed up for one in the first place? Here are some excellent reasons why we love half marathons.
1. It’s not a full marathon.
Let’s face it, half marathons are a lot easier on your body and schedule than full marathons. I’ve done many half marathons that ran on part of the same course as a full marathon and there’s always a point where the half marathoners turn off and head to the finish line and the full marathoners keep going…and going. I can’t say that I’ve ever said, “Oh, I really wish I was going with them” as I watched the full marathoners forge ahead. Instead, the other half marathoners and I are usually high-fiving each other that we’re headed to the finish line.
We know that completing a half marathon is an incredible accomplishment, but it doesn’t involve as much pain or commitment as a full marathon. And, if you’re running a half marathon in a cool destination, you’ll have plenty of time, energy and leg strength to explore and have fun after the race.
2. Half marathon running has plenty of health benefits.
Beyond helping you to lose or maintain weight, there are lots of other health benefits of half marathon training. Running will strengthen your heart and ensure the efficient flow of blood and oxygen throughout your body, which helps decrease your risk of a heart attack. Exercise is one of the best ways to naturally reduce your blood pressure if it’s above normal and it can help keep high cholesterol in check.
Running also improves your immune system, so your body functions are more effective and efficient at fighting off germs. Running is also a great stress reliever, so you’ll experience mental health benefits as well.
3. You’ll need to buy some new running clothes and gear.
Half marathon training is a great excuse to pick up some new running duds. Since you’ll be running at least a few times a week and may be running through more than one season, you’ll probably need some running clothes in your rotation. Picking out a new shirt, running socks, or pants is also a nice reward for your hard work.
4. Breaking into double digits feels pretty awesome.
During your half marathon training, you’ll hit double digits and there’s something magical about running 10 miles consecutively for the first time. You’ll feel like you’ve reached a major milestone and hopefully start to call yourself a “real” runner, if you haven’t already.
5. You have a perfect excuse to get a massage.
Half marathoners tend to get tight muscles from all the running, and regular massages can help you feel comfortable and injury-free. Treat yourself to a massage or two during your training to help relieve some of that tightness. Or, you can indulge in a hand-held massager or other massage tool for home use.
6. You’ll sleep better.
If you’ve had trouble sleeping, following a half marathon schedule and running on a regular basis will tire you out and help you catch more Zzzs.
7. People can make signs for you.
If you run a 5K, you shouldn’t really expect your friends and family to make signs for you. Although I’m sure they love you and want to support you, it’s just not something that 5K spectators do. But running a half marathon is definitely a sign-worthy endeavor. It wouldn’t be too much to ask your buddies to break out the markers and posterboard and get busy. You can even give them some ideas for funny and inspiring signs.
8. You can discover different running routes and run in new cities.
If you typically stick to shorter distances for running and racing, training for a half marathon will force you to find new places to run, since you’ll be doing a long run every week. Check out MapMyRun.com or ask local runners for suggestions on where to run.
There are half marathons all over the world, so you may decide that you want to run somewhere you’ve never been. Some runners use a half marathon as an excuse to travel to a fun destination with family or friends.
9. You’ll get a medal (and a shirt).
OK, so maybe the idea of getting a finishing medal doesn’t get you too excited, but the point is that you’ll get a little reward for your efforts and you’ll have a tangible reminder of your achievement. Many half marathons offer decent swag (usually better than 5Ks or 10Ks), like a technical running shirt, and have race expos where you can pick up some running gear freebies and samples.
10. Crossing the finish line feels fantastic.
Although you’ll experience rough patches during half marathon training and in the race itself, it’s all worth it once you cross that glorious finish line. You’ll feel great knowing that you set a goal of finishing a half marathon and you followed through with it. You may decide you love half marathons so much that you can’t wait to do your next one.
How Long Is a Half Marathon?
A half marathon is 13.1 miles or 21 kilometers, which is half the distance of a full marathon (26.2 miles). It’s a challenging but achievable goal for runners who have already completed a 5K (3.1 mile) race or a 10K (6.2 mile) race and are looking to take their training to the next level. If you can comfortably complete 3 miles, you can start to train for a half marathon.
Half Marathon Training Schedules
- Beginner Half Marathon Training Schedule
- 3 Day a Week Half Marathon Training Schedule
- 8-Week Half Marathon Training Schedule
Half Marathon Frequently-Asked Questions
- How Long Does It Take to Train for a Half Marathon?
- How Can I Improve My Running Confidence?
- How Can I Avoid Tired Legs When Running?
Running coach, avid runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach and ACE-certified personal trainer. Author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons.
