If you would have asked me a year ago if I’d every run a half marathon I would have laughed. 

In college I tried training for one and gave up on the mile 8 training day so I really didn’t think it would ever happen again. Then the Las Vegas Rock N Roll Marathon happened and our entire team committed to running together! I knew with the support of TeamLSF HQ I could do it and we did!

I’m not gonna lie, the training schedule I put together was aggressive, but totally manageable. My goal was to still get in at least 2 strength days in the LSF app and add the running. Most people make the mistake of only running for their training and while of course you’ve got to get those miles in, strength training is key for maintaining lean muscle mass and endurance.

For my strength days I decided to focus on Legs + Booty, to avoid dead butt, and  Arms + Abs. Then on my “active rest” days I often did a full body workout from the app without any weights or yoga.

I’ve laid out how to train for a 1/2 marathon in 8 weeks with the best weekly tips to help you stay focused and crush your goals!

Week 1:

Focus: Make the Time

Start scheduling your runs into your week. This was the hardest part for me. I’m used to my LSF app workouts taking like 30-45mins MAX and some of the long runs took about 2 hours.

Take your average minute per mile time and add on an extra 20minutes to make sure you have time to warm-up and stretch it out.

Week 2:

Focus: Get Your Gear + Stretch!

Pay attention to how your clothes feel when you run and see where you need to adjust. I never thought so much about my pants or socks as I did during this training! My favorite running leggings ended up being from Lorna Jane ones and these Lululemon Wunder Train High Waited leggings. I also bought these compression socks on Amazon  and it all made a huge difference!

I also bought the On-Cloud “Cloud” running shoes and wore them on my long runs + on race day and then used these Brooks Revel 3 shoes for lighter training days.

Also, as your runs are getting longer this week, be sure to add in extra tome to stretch and foam roll each night!

Week 3:

Focus: Hydration Station

Think you’re drinking enough? Drink more. You should be getting about 2-3L per day. So if your body is used to 2, make it 3! It’s also a good idea to have water on hand (or hip) during your runs.

Water is important, but you will likely need more electrolytes on your long runs to stay properly hydrated. I love Ultima   for replenishing electrolytes because it’s super clean, sweetened with organic stevia, and has no caffeine or stimulants.

Week 4:

Focus: Rest Up

Your body is probably in a little shock still. Make sure you get 7-8hours a sleep each night. Adequate sleep is what is going to allow your body recover and muscles repair after a tough workout or long run.

Week 5:

Focus: Fuel Up

Your body need fast acting carbs for energy. I recommend about 45% -50% of your diet coming from carbs during training. If you have the Hot Body Meal Plan, week 1 is perfect for training!

• During training, Make sure your also paying attention to your pre-workout and post-workout snacks! I love a piece of sprouted grain bread with banana and nut butter before a workout and a good protein shake after!
• During your long runs and race day, make sure you’re getting those quick carbs in every 45-60mins. I’m not one for straight up sugar, but it was necessary during the long runs. We used these honey chews from Stinger for fast energy.

Week 6:

Focus: Get Your Mind Right

Your mind will get over it before your body does. Be prepared with ways to keep yourself focused until the end!

Week 7:

Focus: Pre-Race Prep

Get your gear ready, download your playlists, and plan your post-race victory meal! I personally went for a burger and fries and it was the BEST!

Week 8:

Focus: Let’s Run!

Get excited! Everything you’ve been working for is here! Take the time to soak up all the feels. This might be a once in a lifetime experience so enjoy it!!

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