Half Marathon Training Update, Tips, And More

If you’re following me on Instagram, you probably already know that I’m currently training for a half marathon. My race day is May 22, which means I’m about halfway there.

In today’s post, I thought I’d share why I decided to take on this challenge, what motivates me, a round-up of my favorite running gear, what I do on my off-running days, my long-run playlist, and more.

As someone who is constantly challenging herself in all aspects of life, I’ve mentally and physically taken on a new one for 10 weeks — training for a half marathon. I’ve been a runner all my life — but in the past year during the quarantine, along with many others looking for ways to cope in uneasy times, long-distance running gave me this liberating feeling in a time of lockdown.

I’m currently wrapping up WEEK 5/10 with another long endurance run — 10 miles — this upcoming Saturday, and every time I hit a new week… there’s this feeling of excitement that creeps up inside of me. It’s almost equivalent to crossing off your to-do list. It’s that satisfaction of slowly and surely making progress… one week at a time.

And just to give an update, I’ve definitely seen some changes in my body and in my endurance. The first three weeks didn’t feel as different because the miles weren’t as long from the start. But when I started hitting week four, I noticed that my legs felt and looked more toned, and I was able to get through 3 miles easily. I’m hoping that as I continue working through the next few weeks, my endurance for the long-distance running will continue to grow, and maybe my body will keep transforming.

This is the Half Marathon Training Plan I’m going off of.

RUNNING GEAR + PRODUCTS I USE:

| WEARING: ombre sports leggings | ombre sports crop top |

I use a hybrid smartwatch to track my steps and running. Mine is currently unavailable, but here are a few that I’m loving here + here. As far as shoes go, I prefer wearing Nike sneakers for my running shoes. I’ve always gravitated towards Nike shoes just for comfort and familiarity reasons. Here are a few pairs that I’m loving: here + here + here + here + here

I typically run in these running shorts or these leggings because they have pockets. It’s so helpful to have either my AirPod Pro case in there (currently on sale!), including my mask and keys. The running shorts are definitely my favorite and go-to because they’re so comfortable to run in. Highly recommend! As for sports bras or tops, I stick with the typical black or white sports bras. I’m more for comfort rather than show. Here’s a few that I’m loving: here + here.

After my runs or on days where I’m resting, I make sure to use this foam roller to get the knots out of my legs. This has been so helpful for me since I’m running 4 times a week! Additionally on my off-days, I’ll use these dumbbells for strength training.

RUNNING PLAYLIST:

I’m one of those people who have to have a running playlist. That’s why I created a Long Run Playlist solely for my half marathon training. By now, I know which songs will “hype” me up for my warm-ups, which songs will give me that boost of energy, which ones will push me through the uphill elevations, or which ones are great for keeping a consistent pace.

Do you have a workout playlist? If so, what kind of songs do you mainly listen to?

RUNNING TIPS + ROUTES:

I’m not a professional runner by any means, but a lot of the tips I’ve learned with running have been through experience. For instance —

TIP #1: I know my body well enough that I can’t really eat before my runs, otherwise I’ll cramp up. Instead, I’ll have hot lemon water with a little bit of honey to start my morning.

TIP #2: Running is mostly about mindset. When you start your run thinking that you’re tired, not going to get through it, won’t be able to finish… chances are, you’re not going to be able to get through it. That’s why having a playlist is important — it’ll help boost your energy and mood. Or, making sure you’re in the right mindset before starting a run.

TIP #3: I’m a very competitive person and I’m always aiming for the fastest time and the longest distances. However, your body will not be able to hit that personal record every single run. So with that in mind, it’s okay if one run is slower than your other one. Or if you’re not able to run the 6 miles you ran last week — it’s okay. Listen to your body and make sure you’re taking care of yourself and not beating yourself up over it.

TIP #4: Have a route in mind. I’ve found that having an idea of how long the Central Park loop is, for instance, or knowing how far I want to run today inspires where I’m planning to run. That allows me to mentally prepare for how long I’m planning to run, so I can ready myself for endurance.

TIP #5: Don’t forget to stretch!! I used to never stretch after or before my runs and would notice how cramped and knotty my legs were. If you’re training for any race, you want to make sure you’re stretching properly. Taking care of your legs and body is crucial!

As for routes, I shared my favorites in this blog post here.

I hope this post was helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions.

I’d love to know what are some things you’ve been challenging yourself to do lately?

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