I completed my first half marathon in the weekend. I ran it in 2 hr 3 mins.
I had hoped to finish it in 2 hrs, but I am pretty happy with my first attempt.
After my half marathon I did not run for three full days. Then for two days I ran about 2-3 miles and then I did a little longer run today (about 4 miles).
My question is:
What is an appropriate resting period after a half marathon? Can I now go back to the mileage I had been doing before this (about 20-24 miles per week)? My long run would be in two days time and I am planning to do about 7-8 miles.
Does this sound alright or should I stay at lower mileage for a few weeks?
Thanks.
Answer by Dominique:
Hi there,
Thanks for your running training question about running after your half marathon.
First of all, well done on finishing your first half marathon!
A half marathon does not require as much of a resting period as a marathon does. A marathon is, in essence, a bit of a crazy distance. It is generally advised that people stay away from running about 2-3 weeks after a marathon.
Although there are probably people you know who are fine within two days of their marathon and are out there running again, your body simply needs time to recover after such a distance.
With the half marathon it is a completely different story.
A race takes quite a bit out of you, and therefore it is good to take a few days off. However after that, you should normally be able to start your normal running program again.
If 20-24 miles per week has been pretty standard for you the last little while, then by all means, continue with your normal running program.
Hope this helps.
Kind regards, Dominique
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