Hello all,

I've been challenged to run a half marathon in late April. I've run several 5k's, but I've never been a distance runner.

I did go out Saturday and run 6 miles. It took me about an hour, and besides some hardcore soreness the day after, it wasn't too bad.

My question is: Is it possible to properly train for the race by only running 3 times a week??(which is the most my schedule will allow)

As far as what I expect out of the race...... I have no real time goals, but I would like to finish(ofc) and possibly run most of the way.

I think you can put yourself in a position to finish, and probably run the entire way as well.

However, it sounds like you're essentially starting from zero base mileage and 3 days a week for 12 weeks is probably not enough time to follow most of the traditional distance running program guidelines with regards to what mileage you should be running by your taper. I would say you probably do not have enough time left or free time to "properly" train. So I'd expect the race to be a thoroughly painful experience.

My fiance ran a half with about 2 weeks of training. She ran like 5 -> 8 -> 10 -> race. Each of those distances was a PR distance.

If your just trying to run the entire distance w/o caring about time then probably the most important thing is to not get hurt by pushing yourself too hard while training. Make sure you have some shoes that fit you so you don't end up with blisters after the first week and then start changing your gait to compensate which is great way to get hurt.

Hal Higdon Half Marathon 12 week program

Gives you some good info & background on what it will take. IMO make sure you get the long runs in one of the days. Then maybe the shorter run on 2nd day and some sprint/intervals work on your 3rd day.

Not sure why you can't train more than 3 days....if so on your Off Days make sure to stretch and maybe some basic bodyweight movements (pushup, situp, squat, pullups) provided you can do them properly. I'd recommend some strength work as you'd benefit a lot but in light of the info you provided and knowing not much about your current physical condition hard to recommend:

Cliff Notes: Follow the program in the link, make sure you don't hurt yourself and in 11-12 weeks (based on your 6 mile, 60 minute run) sounds like you should win your challenge. Good luck.

Thanks!

As far as the 3 days a week, it's basically just an available time thing(wife, 2 small kids, full time job). But I could def sneak in some pushups/stretching before bed.