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This was after my first half marathon in 2019. Did I actually wear my 13.1 medal around for a few days after? Yes, I did.
Some folks say marathoners - half, full, ultra, whatever - are a different breed and I might agree with the exception of myself. I’m just a mom who loves a tangible, achievable goal. I’m embarking on my fourth half marathon since 2019 and I am PUMPED to be training again. I signed up for my first all those years ago because I needed to prove something to myself and hit a goal after a tough year. The following two I completed were just to have fun with friends. This one is about training my butt off (only figuratively, obvs. I like my cute glutes).
Since I live in reality I will tell you that I am never going to be the fastest one on the half course. And I don’t want to be! That’s ok! I am going to cross the finish line and I am going to work my best and give these muscles something to do. For me these races aren’t a competition. They are a chance for everyone at that starting line to win on their own terms and they are a chance for me to get better each time. Going in knowing that I’m only really competing with past me (and I love her so much!) has helped transform half marathon training for me - and working out in general - from a slog to something I actually look forward to. And this is coming from someone who had killer shin splints one half and lost two toenails another half (ew, I’m sorry. But it is true! The toenail thing was my superhero origin story.).
Now I have three half marathons under my belt already and I know what works for me and what doesn’t when it comes to approach, attitude, and products. Every time I train for one of these I find myself pouring over blogs and social media and Pinterest to find which products I need or what can remedy an issue I’m having. So here are my go-to tools to help me through training and the big race day.
The Plan
Having a plan is crucial to me when training for a half (or when doing anything, really, I’m very much a Type A personality). For my first three I used this amazing, FREE plan from Snacking in Sneakers. This time around I’m using a variation of that with more strength mixed in and varied mileage days. Essentially it comes down to strength training on MWF, shorter mileage T/Th, the long mileage on Saturday, and some yoga/active rest on Sundays. Breaking it up this way helps support these gorgeous muscles but also helps me build up to that 13.1 mileage for race day in a manageable way. My goal this time around is to truly be in tune with my bod and maybe get my fastest time.
The Equipment
Yes, running/walking is mostly just using your feet but in cross training and those active rest days I lean on my fave kettlebell set, f-r-e-e Yoga with Adriene videos, and the Echelon bike I was gifted last year. For those walking/running days I like to hit the great outdoors if frigid Illinois weather allows or I head to my gym which luckily has an indoor track.
The Clothes
With my first half I learned a BIG lesson in finding the right shoes. I now know to size up a smidge and, when possible, get fitted professionally at a local running store. These cute as heck Nikes got me through one half already and I am replacing them with the same make and model for the next one. Look familiar? I plan to buy the Pantone mocha mousse version, too. Pair them with cotton-free socks to help keep blisters at bay.
Pulling up your leggings or shorts when training is VERY annoying and a great way to make yourself want to quit immediately. I go full comfort, especially on longer mileage days, with these high waisted black leggings (runner’s pocket is a non-negotiable for me. I NEED it.), a seamless sports bra, and a baggy t-shirt or hoodie. If weather allows and the miles are looooong I like to wear a running vest to carry my knickknacks, too.
The Other Things
There are some things that are a must that didn’t fit in other categories so….get some sunscreen! I hate when it feels like product is sitting on top of my skin when I’m already sweating so I love this light sunscreen that doesn’t make my face feel like an oil slick. Don’t forget lip care! A long run with chapped lips is my personal hell. I keep an Aquaphor Lip Recovery stick in the aforementioned runner’s pocket that I cannot live without. Speaking of skincare, chafe happens. We have human thighs and other human parts! I use Megababe Thigh Rescue because there’s no pain like rashy thighs on a 10 mile jog.
Stay safe! Even when training during the day at the lake near my house where I feel safe I keep my head on a swivel and this killer cute pepper spray in my pocket.
Nutrition
This time around nutrition is a huge focal point for me and getting my protein in is a must. I track my protein with MyFitnessPal and am learning to focus on whole, nutritious meals. In a pinch and for an added punch of protein I love Seeq protein powder in watermelon wave or Clean Simple Eats in pretty much any flavor because they are all so good.
I am a FIEND for water and folks are serious when they say to stay hydrated. No matter the day’s miles I bring a water bottle on every run/walk (usually one with a zip pocket so I can carry my stuff n’ things like this one). I add a splash of Buoy hydration to my water bottle for a good boost. I also love a good morning bev of warm water, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice to boost electrolytes and get my bod moving.
Recovery
When we start getting to the higher mileage days like 12 and 13 miles, a hot bath afterward is mandatory. When my legs ache I love a little Dr. Teal's muscle recovery soak. I also will “Dexter” my feet and put Icy Hot on them then wrap them in plastic wrap - I have no idea why or how I started doing this but it helps! Remember that the best recovery is real rest, too! So meditate, drink some water, and get that beauty rest.
The Mental Stuff
No matter what your goal is, be it a half marathon or something entirely different, be good to yourself and know that you have this in the bag. Your best is good enough and all of those affirmation cards you’ve read are true. Psych yourself up with some music (I keep my running playlist on YouTube because I’m 1,000 years old) and get out there and do the dang thing. You can do it!
At the end of the day completing a half - or whatever goal you have set for yourself - mostly comes down to proper planning and being kind to yourself. Fellow walkers, runners, hobblers, and joggers! What are some products that save YOU on longer mileage days?
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