Half Mary in 6 mos?

[kiwi girl]

I think you could easily do it.
Just as an example there is this training program http://www.halhigdon.com/halfmarathon/novice.htm that takes people from running less than you are now to a half marathon in 3 months. I'm not saying you would want to use this program exactly (you'd almost certainly want to do more cross training than is there) but it does show that you have heaps of time to build up

[Wahine]

You could totally do it. No problem. You have 6 months, you're running 5 to 6 now. That means you have 22 weeks before tapering. You could increase your long runs on the weekend by 1/2 a mile (easily doable) and still have rest weeks and a 2 week planned taper.

Let me know if you have specific questions. We can work something out for you.

[Deborajen]

Before my first half mary, an experienced marathoner asked me:

1. How long have you been running?
2. How many miles per week do you run?
3. What is your training program?

Those were very good questions. I've heard numerous times that it's not a good idea to take on an ambitious running distance event (marathon or half marathon, or even a 10K) without at least a year of regular running under your belt. The longer I run (almost 6 years now), the more I believe this. Running pounds your body. It's best to build up everything - speed, distance, and any big changes like hills, etc. - gradually, or you'll suddenly pay for it for a long time.

Weekly mileage is important. It's a big part of training your body for endurance, along with the weekly long easy - and I stress easy - run.

A good training program is a must. Slow increases, rest weeks, and a taper prior to the event are all important elements. I found a good training program on the Runners' World website, and there are many others online and in books.

If you have all of the above, you should be well on your way. If not, some people try it and pull it off anyway, but the majority aren't able. I don't consider myself an expert by any means, but I have a little experience. (and want to have a lot more!) I love running and enjoy seeing other people get into it and have fun with it, too. Prepare well and go for it!

Deb