COUCH TO HALF MARATHON: Complete our 8-week Couch to 5k plan to build up to running 5k non-stop, then move on to our 12-week half marathon training plan for beginners (20 weeks in total). 12-WEEK HALF MARATHON TRAINING PLAN FOR BEGINNERS: You run a little, can run 2-3 miles non-stop, and this is your first half marathon. Ok even if not, read on for the masters running tips you need. 1. Resetting Goals and PR’s. Running as you age will be different. While some people can continue to run long distances and train for marathons, some will have better success with finding some moderation in their running. Many runners who’ve taken a long break from running also find it helpful to follow a beginner schedule so they can reestablish a running habit and avoid getting injured. Consider these options: 4 Weeks to Run One Mile. 3 Weeks to a 30-Minute Running Habit. 4 Weeks to Run Two Miles. 8 Weeks to Run a 5K. Honestly, I could fill a book with tips and plans …and I did. So consider this your primer! 1. Focus Less On Pace. Worry less about speed and more about time on your feet. This remains true for most runners even as they progress to wanting to PR the marathon. There is a benefit to volume and to learning to run easy. Starting with less mileage and even run-walking is optimal, and you can even try Couch to 5K to prepare for a half marathon training cycle. If you feel like the C25K is too gentle, try Couch to Half Marathon or level up to a 16-week training plan. You might be running more than zero and yet still benefit from a novice 16-week training plan. jLBBm.