Once you have decided to sign up for a half-marathon, it is essential that you understand what you need to do to prepare your body to run this distance. Running 13.1 miles is a challenge for nearly anyone, including seasoned athletes. Here are three tips to keep in mind when training to take on this endeavor to help you to guarantee the best race possible.
Keep a Training Schedule
Your preparation starts with finding a training plan that is a good fit for your schedule. There are a variety of plans available that you can customize to meet your current fitness levels. Most training schedules include one weekly long run that increases in distance each week. Your schedule should also include at least one day of speed work and one recovery run. The recovery run should be completed the day after your weekly long run.
Get the Right Nutrition
In addition to following through with your prescribed training plan, you also need to ensure that you are fueling your body with good nutritional choices. Choosing snacks with real and wholesome ingredients promotes health and wellness, which can help in your training. You need to avoid junk food as much as possible. Overly processed foods will only weigh you down and hinder your performance. Be sure to properly hydrate before, during, and after every training run. There are various supplements available that will boost energy stores during runs so that you do not run out of energy.
Do Not Discount the Importance of Rest
You may be tempted to think that you will perform better on race day if you train more. This is simply not true. A well-designed training program will incorporate adequate time for rest. Fora better nights sleep, check out these sleep tips or SomaRest is an all natural, side effect free sleep supplement. For most people, this is at least one full rest day per week and one day to engage in cross-training exercises that's not related to running. Your rest time will increase in the two weeks leading up to the race. Do not be fooled into thinking that a few extra runs will improve your performance. After months of training, your body needs this time to recover and rest up for the 13.1 miles that lie ahead.
Embarking on a half-marathon journey is no easy feat. However, the right preparation will ensure that you can put your best foot forward as you toe the starting line on race day.
BCAA's can help with recovery and hGH is key to helping your body repair, rebuild and restore itself.
Does your body need a boost? Click here to browse our all-natural sports supplements!