Half marathons are a very popular length race to run. For those runners who are well trained, hard-core athletes the half marathon has its appeal because it can help train them for a full marathon. Many training schedules include a half marathon as one of its long runs in order to help get an athlete in prime condition for a marathon. In fact some marathons will even take half marathon times for qualification for a starting corral.

 

For other runners who are maybe just getting into running, very young or very old, or people who don’t have as much time to train, a half marathon has an appeal for an entirely different reason. For the beginners a half marathon is seen as a reachable goal. Many new runners may be overwhelmed by how far a marathon is, but the option of running a half marathon seems to be a much more feasible, yet still respectable goal. For those people who fall into the category of being very young or very old, a half marathon is a popular option to prevent them from getting injured by attempting to run a full marathon.

 

Whether you are the well trained athlete, the beginner, or on either end of the age spectrum there are some things about training for and racing a half marathon that apply to all runners. First, always pick a training schedule that is right for your experience level. There are many free training programs out there that range from beginner to expert. It is important to use these schedules in order to know that you are not over working your body too quickly and making sure you get the right amount of rest that your body requires to replenish its essential chemicals. Second, it is important to always stretch before and after each run to help prevent injuries from occurring. Third, remember that the more that you run the more you must eat and drink to compensate for the extra calories and sweat you’re burning. Lastly, make sure you have a good pair of running shoes that give you the right stability and support you need to sustain the number of miles you will run throughout your training and race.

 

Half marathons are a great length because they allow people of all running abilities to participate. As long as the runner follows a training schedule, stretches, and takes care of their feet they will have a healthy and successful race.

Dr. Andrew Schneider is a podiatrist in private practice in Houston, TX. He is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of the feet of his patients and educating the public on foot health. For more information about issues affecting people with diabetes, informative videos, and to order Dr. Schneider’s FREE book, visit his website and his blog “Keep Your Feet Feeling Young.”

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