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Training for a half marathon? Things to remember
If you can run a 10K, you can run a half marathon. Even though it’s more than double the distance, building up the miles is straightforward, and with already having a base to build from, you’ll be signing up for a race in no time!
Whether it’s your first, or your next goal to work towards, the Altra Kielder Half Marathon is the perfect race to put your training to the test and experience a one-of-a-kind half marathon in one of Britain’s most stunning settings.
With just over six weeks to go until race day, you should already be comfortable running 10K, and running two or three times a week. Increasing your mileage too quickly could result in injury, meaning you’re not only out of running for at least a few weeks, but also missing out on the opportunity to participate in this epic event.
WHY KIELDER?
- A different challenge: It may not be flat, but giving yourself the challenge of a trail half means that you can set a different target. It’s not necessarily a PB course, but an opportunity to change up your regular running and head out into the wild.
- Stunning views: Nicknamed ‘Britain’s most beautiful,’ all the Altra Kielder events take in the forest trails and lakeside paths of Kielder Water. The Half Marathon starts on the Dam, and winds through the trees along the water to the finish at Kielder Waterside.
- A friendly community: With thousands of other runners, and cheering marshals at every checkpoint, you’re surrounded with an energy that will motivate you when the going gets tough.
- Something to show off: Your medal is the token of your achievement. Plus, purchase an event t-shirt to wear on your next training runs – it’s a conversation starter to say you’ve completed the Altra Kielder Half!
- Be part of something big: This year is the 15th anniversary of our first-ever Kielder Marathon back in 2015, and with a new headline partnership with Altra, we’re planning a huge event and lots of activation over the weekend that will be unmissable!
- Preparation for next year…: If a marathon is in your sights, you may want to try the half marathon this year, to mentally and physically prepare yourself for the challenge. Thsi year you complete the Altra Kielder Half, next year the full Marathon!
If you’re not signed up yet, entries are filling up for all the Altra Kielder Marathon events. If you want to experience this very special weekend, don’t delay in entering now!
THINGS TO REMEMBER IN TRAINING
- Run slowly: Slower than you think! You may be able to do a fast 10K, and even pushed yourself to ten miles, but a half marathon is a long way and you’ll need to conserve energy for those final miles. Slowing down, taking it all in, and finding a comfortable pace will help you settle in during the race.
- Practice hills: Any previous participant will tell you the Kielder Half isn’t flat! The undulating route has several inclines and these will feel tough if you’re used to flatter road running. Practising hill repeats and sprints will mean you have more power in your legs to get up those inclines during the race. And remember, after every incline comes a nice downhill stretch!
- Increasing mileage: Time on your feet is crucial to build up to the distance you’ll be running on race day. Make sure to increase mileage by no more than 10% a week, so your body gradually adapts to the longer distance
- Resting and recovering: Take rest days and recovery seriously, and make sure not to do too much in the final weeks before your race. You’ll exhaust yourself, or worse, injure yourself and be unable to participate. It’s better to turn up to the start line well-rested, than not at all!
- Practising fuelling: On longer training runs, practice your race day fuelling techniques to make sure they work for you. Try energy gels from our partner High 5, snacks and carry water to mimic what you’ll have on race day. It’s also important to think about what to eat before your long runs. Don’t try anything new on race day!
- Think about your goal: It might be your first half, a return to longer distances after a break, or building up to the intimidating marathon distance, but whatever pushes you on during those tough inclines and tiring miles, will be what gets you to the finish line. You’ve put the hard work in in training, now the race will be your victory lap, and your chance to put to the test everything you’ve worked for.
Ready to take the leap?
Whether this will be your first half marathon or your next big challenge, the Altra Kielder Half Marathon is the perfect place to do it.
Entries are open now – book your spot, gear up your training and join us for an unforgettable experience in one of Britain’s most beautiful locations.