AI-Powered Training

Half Marathon Training Plan

Run your best half marathon with a plan that adapts to you

10-14 weeks30-50km/week peakAdapts daily

Why UltraCoach vs. a Generic Plan

Adapts to your life

Missed a workout? Got sick? The plan adjusts automatically based on your actual training load and recovery.

Device-integrated

Syncs with Strava, Whoop, and Garmin. Your heart rate, sleep, and HRV data shape tomorrow's workout.

Race-specific pacing

Upload your race GPX file and get gradient-adjusted pacing targets for every segment of the course.

AI coaching 24/7

Ask your AI coach anything — nutrition timing, gear choices, taper strategy — and get answers backed by sports science.

What Your Half Marathon Training Plan Looks Like

Phase
Weeks
Volume
Base
1-4
Low-Medium
Build
5-10
Medium-High
Peak
11-14
Peak
Taper
15-16
Low

* Phase lengths adapt based on your current fitness and time until race day.

Training Guide

A half marathon (21.1km / 13.1 miles) is the perfect stepping stone between 10K and marathon. Most runners can prepare in 10-14 weeks with 3-4 runs per week. The key is building a consistent aerobic base before adding tempo and race-pace work.

Weekly Structure

3-4 runs per week: 1 long run (building to 18-20km), 1 tempo/threshold run, 1-2 easy runs. Total volume: 30-50km/week at peak.

Long Run Progression

Start at your current longest run. Add 1-2km per week. Peak long run: 18-20km, 3 weeks before race day. Run at conversational pace — 60-90 seconds slower than goal race pace.

Race Pace

Your half marathon pace should be roughly your easy pace minus 45-60 seconds per km. If you run easy at 6:00/km, target 5:00-5:15/km for the half.

Taper

Reduce volume by 30-40% in the final 2 weeks. Maintain intensity but cut duration. Trust your training — fitness doesn't disappear in 2 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to train for a half marathon?

10-14 weeks for runners with a 10K base. 16-20 weeks if starting from scratch.

Can I walk during a half marathon?

Absolutely. Many runners use a run-walk strategy (e.g., run 4 minutes, walk 1 minute). It's a valid race strategy, not a sign of weakness.

What should I eat before a half marathon?

A familiar, carb-rich meal 2-3 hours before the start. Oatmeal, toast with banana, or rice are common choices. Nothing new on race day.

Ready to Start Training?

Sign up for UltraCoach and get a personalized half marathon training plan in minutes. It adapts every day based on your actual training.