Marathon Handbook Podcast · Episode 129 · January 29, 2026 · 1 hr 35 min
The Ultimate Half Marathon Guide: Training, Pacing, Fueling + Bucket List Races
The half marathon might be the most popular race distance in the world — but is it actually the perfect running event? In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle is joined by coaches and athletes Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr for a complete deep dive into the half marathon. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: livemomentous.com Rocket Money saves you money by cancelling unwanted subscriptions, hassle-free: https://rocketmoney.com/gorun We discuss: • The surprising origins of the half marathon • Why it feels more like a 10K than a marathon • The key workouts that build half marathon fitness • Long run guidelines for beginners vs advanced runners • Race-week pacing strategy and the “15K wall” • Fueling rules (when gels actually matter) • Strength training mistakes runners make • Best bucket list half marathons: Valencia, Copenhagen, NYC, Super Halves • Should the half marathon be an Olympic event? • And… what should we rename the half marathon? Whether you're racing your first 13.1 or chasing a PR, this is your complete half marathon handbook. Half Marathon Training Plans: https://marathonhandbook.com• Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter Topics/Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:23 Half Marathon Overview 2:06 Origins of the Half Marathon 9:35 Popularity of the Half Marathon 19:11 What Kind of Race is It? (Comparing to 10K and Marathon) 28:21 Physiology of the Half 36:33 Why the Half is Hard 41:51 Why the Half is Misunderstood 44:51 Weekly Training Structure 48:00 Key Half Marathon Workouts 53:59 Common Training Mistakes 58:06 Long Runs 1:02:01 Fueling During the Race 1:04:44 Carb Loading for a Half 1:08:59 Post-Race Recovery 1:12:27 Are Hot Tubs Overrated? 1:15:39 Travel-Worthy Half Marathons 1:23:04 Half Marathon and Olympics 1:26:29 Rebranding the Half 1:33:07 Final Thoughts on the Half