So, you have made the decision to train for your first half marathon. Now, where do you begin?

For beginners, this can be an overwhelming challenge at first. The key is to break it down into a manageable schedule.

This schedule is a perfect option for those first timers or beginning runners whose goal is simply to finish the 13.1 mile race. To start this plan, you should have been running for at least two months and have a base mileage of about 8 to 10 miles per week.

If you prefer a running and walking program, then try that schedule on for size. Or, if you are not new to running and this schedule seems too easy, then try the advanced beginner half marathon training schedule.

If you have not already had a physical, be sure to visit with your doctor for medical clearance to train for this event. About the schedule, most Mondays are rest days.

Rest is critical to your recovery and injury prevention efforts; so do not ignore them, but honor them. Besides, you will most likely enjoy them as well.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, after your warm up, run at a moderate pace which is slightly faster than your long run pace for the designated mileage. Cool down and stretch after you are finished with your run.

As for Wednesdays, some of them are designated rest days while others are cross training (CT) days. This means that you should do a CT activity like biking, swimming, elliptical training, etc. at easy to moderate effort for 30 to 45 minutes.

On Fridays, you should also do a CT activity for an additional 30 to 45 minutes at an easy to moderate effort. If you are feeling very sluggish or sore on Friday, take a rest that day, because it is very important for you to feel strong for your Levitra Saturday long run.

On Saturdays, this is the day for your long slow distance run. Run the designated mileage at an easy, conversational pace. Use your breathing as your guide.

You should be able to breathe easily and talk in complete sentences comfortably during your run. Then, on Sundays, you should have an active recovery day; your short run should be at a very easy level at a comfortable pace which will help you loosen up your muscles.

Also, remember that you can always switch up the days to accommodate your schedule. So, if you are really busy on another day and prefer to work out on a Monday or a Friday, then it is okay to swap a rest day for a run day.

It is wise to run and perform all of your training outside rather than indoors on a treadmill. There are many differences between the two surfaces.

Training on a treadmill does not give you the same challenges that outdoor running provides due to hills, natural terrain and conditions like wind. Also, since your race will be performed outdoors, you will want to train in the same conditions.

Treadmills are good for training when the weather or other factors keep you from training outside. So, only use them when they are necessary.

For whatever reason you have decided to train for a half marathon, make sure you remember your motivation and keep it in the forefront of your mind. This way, when things get difficult and hard to keep going, you can stick with it.

Often times, people have already run a 5K or a 10K and want to challenge themselves further. Some people are hoping to go on to running a full marathon and want to begin here.

Either way, this can be a great personal growth experience in more ways than just your physical and endurance capacities. Good music can also be a great motivator while you are running.

Just when you are running low on juice, sometimes that extra energy burst from a good, upbeat song is all you need to get a little extra adrenaline to keep you going. Music is great because most of the battle is a mental one as opposed to a physical case.

Do all you need to keep yourself motivated and stick to a pre planned schedule. This way, you are sure to accomplish your goal of a half

Author Bio: Ronald Pedactor has worked in the exercise and health industry for 31 years. When searching for a good deal on exercise equipment he suggests getting someone knowledgeable to horizon treadmill reviews, and tell you their qualities.

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Rondald Pedactor
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