Half & Full Marathon Training Program

Get ready for a fall or winter half or full marathon!

We offer two excellent program options for both the half and full marathon training program. Both programs offer a structured training plan and use the Battleship Half Marathon and Richmond Half/Full Marathon as goal races / race dates, but plans can be tailored to accommodate other goal races as well!

Level 1 Program will focus on safely and effectively building a mileage base for completing a half/full marathon and will include pace groups for training. This program is appropriate for first time & novice runners for the half/full marathon, or anyone who wants a fun group to keep them accountable.

Level 2 Program is for a more experienced runner who has a current mileage base of at least 25 miles/week for half marathon and 30 miles/week for full marathon training, has already completed a half or full marathon in the past year, and is interested in adding more rigorous training components (e.g., speed, strength) in order to reach a new personal time goal (PR). This program is more individualized and tailored to meet personal/pace goals, so group running based on pace can be limited.

Both programs are designed to provide the structure necessary for improvement and flexible enough to help you achieve your personal goals. Training is crafted to fit your training/race goals and life schedule and will be adjusted/modified as necessary throughout the program. Both programs will include two organized runs/workouts per week (Tuesday and Saturday) in order to enhance your training regime. The workouts are focused on building strength, endurance, and developing pacing skills.

TRAINING PLANS:
All participants will receive a complete and detailed plan to get you to your goal race. Weekly running plans and pacing guidelines based on your current fitness level and goals, and a training calendar that includes information on your weekly workouts that are adjusted to accommodate your racing schedule. The program is designed to let you stay in control of your schedule and goal events while we provide guidance, structure, and encouragement.

GROUP TRAINING FORMAT: 
Runners train in a group atmosphere on Tuesday evenings (6:15pm) and Saturday mornings (6:15am). It’s much easier to get your runs in when you’re looking forward to seeing other participants and know they are there waiting for you! Our program emphasizes fun, camaraderie, and a supportive, educational environment. Most runs will start from Bull City Running (both South Durham and Downtown Durham locations), we will utilize local trails such as the American Tobacco Trail, Woodcroft, Duke East and Ellerbe Creek trails, but we will also venture out to other local trails and routes for some variety on Saturday long runs.

SUPPORT AND INFORMATION:
Coaches are always accessible and we will provide you with helpful information and feedback throughout the training program.  We will add you to Final Surge, a training platform for you to track your training during the week. We encourage you to share your training as well as any cross training activities. Our coaches will be able to see, and respond to the comments you share after a run, including pace information after a workout, which will help keep us updated on your progress and suggest adjustments if needed. We’ll also schedule local fitness experts to share information before/after our group runs that will help to address your concerns, compliment your training program, and keep you injury free!

OTHER BENEFITS: 
All participants will receive a 10% discount on all regular priced items at Bull City Running Co. during the entire training program (excludes GPS watches and other electronics).

Depending on your running experience, current mileage, and personal goals, we can help determine which program is best for you. Please feel free to email us with questions!