How to Run a Half Marathon: An Underdog Tale
july 7, 2021 | WORDS BY emily rappold
I don’t remember the reason why I signed up to run a half marathon 6 months ago.
Perhaps I thought it was an avenue to express myself after quite an interesting 2020 experience - or maybe that it was located in my old home state of Montana. Either way I signed up, I ran, and I would do it again. I’m here to tell you that if you want to do something, do it. As cheesy as it sounds, we only live once.
I operate on the motto: if it’s not a hell yes, then it’s a hell no.
The Vacation Race, Glacier Half Marathon was a Hell Yes to me … at least in that fleeting moment it was.
Now, let’s get things straight, I am NOT a long distance trained runner. I have actually never truly enjoyed running. If someone were to ask me to go for a run, I’d probably roll my eyes, laugh and say no thanks (in the kindest of ways). Give me distances of 100 & 200m, that’s my jam; short bursts of speed and power are my thang. I’m here to tell you that runner or not, you have the ability to conquer a race like this - or any challenge for that matter.
Step 1: As Nike says, Just Do It.
Rip the bandaid off and register. It’s time to commit. If it helps, invite friends! That’s what I did … it’s actually cool to have accountabilibuddies. On top of that, pick a race in a badass location; make it an experience!
Step 2: Specific Training?
This is just my opinion, but this part is optional. I had done a 12-week aerobic capacity program on the Air Runner; but the longest I had gone for was 30 minutes which was all of 3 miles. Needless to say, I did zero specific half marathon training. I will say though that it does help to have some knowledge of proper running form and your running gait. My GPP (general physical preparedness) training that I do on a daily basis (NCMETCON & NCX) helped me more than any specific running plan.
Step 3: Gather the Goods
It’s important to have the right shoes - even if you’re not specifically training. It’s also important to break the shoes in prior to the race, rather than wearing them for the first time on race day. This is a pretty well known fact, but it doesn’t hurt as a reminder. Pick a cute outfit, of course. I prefer the Lululemon fast & free leggings to run in. They feel like you’re almost wearing nothing, have a drawstring in the waistband, and best of all, they have pockets - need I say more? And no - I am not sponsored by Lululemon. My last minute addition was from my sister who has done races in the past … an Osprey hydration running vest. This has a water bladder and many pockets for snacks, your phone, or toilet paper which is what I stuffed in there. You just never know if/when you’ll need TP, am I right?!
Step 4: Who Needs Sleep?
The night before my race was kind of like Christmas Eve as a kid … the anticipation of pain and suffering did not help my sleep quality. We stayed in an Airbnb about 1.5 hours away from the race start (things are pretty spread out in MT). It also does not get dark until about 10:45pm in the Summer. Therefore, I got a solid 4 hours of sleep before it was time to hit the road. Even if you don’t get enough, don’t sweat it. The adrenaline will kick in and you can sleep when you’re dead.
Step 4: Hydration Stations
If you’re anything like me, the moment I start drinking water, I have to pee. Don’t fret, more than likely, there are Honey Buckets (porta-potties) along the race route at designated mile markers (a mask would actually be beneficial in these). Along with not so inviting bathrooms, there are also water/aid stations. Grab some water, an orange, even some GU to refuel the body. Eat/drink on the go as you are running or pull an Emily and stop all together while eating, enjoy the scenery and snap a photo (or three).
Step 5: If you don’t take a photo, did it even happen?
If you are actually competing to get a race PR, ignore this step. If, however, you’re here for the view with some added pain, let’s document! I decided to take a selfie at every mile. This serves a two-fold purpose … to prove that I did the race AND to make a calendar for all my friends who I know are dying of 13 sweaty photos of me - some in focus, others blurry.
Step 6: Reach That Finish Line
Regardless if you have training or not, this becomes more mental than physical. I suggest breaking all 13.1 miles down into individual miles. Focus on the mile that you are on, nothing more, nothing less. You’re on mile 4, awesome! Congratulate yourself, then it’s eyes on the prize to get through mile 5! Continue this train of thought until BOOM - you’ve reached the 13 mile flag and you have a measly .1 mile to go. At this point, your feet are probably throbbing, your joints stiffer than a piece of plywood, and what once was sweat has now turned into white salt crystals, but get over it. You’re almost done, then you can collapse.
Step 7: Party
Be proud of your accomplishment - you just ran 13.1 f****** miles! Give yourself a pat on the back, smile and breath. Then it’s all about that post-race beer/cocktail. However, don’t forget to keep hydrating (with water of course). I went kayaking on Flathead Lake to celebrate, followed by quality time with friends and family. Yes, I know … more fitness, but being on the lake with the people that I love is my happy place.
Step 8: There is no step 8, because you did the damn thing!
Reflect, learn from any failures, but most of all, be proud of the effort you put forth - both physical and mental. Who knows, maybe one day you decide you want to do it again, I know I would. Next up for me, a trail run. What will it be for you?!
Happy Running Friends!
