12-Week Half Marathon Training Plan for Runners by Elite Tri Coaching

TL;DR:

Elite Tri Coaching’s 12-week half marathon training plan is designed to help runners of all abilities reach their race goals efficiently and confidently. With structured sessions, expert guidance, and a performance-focused approach, this plan ensures runners train smarter, not harder.

12-Week Half Marathon Training Plan for Runners by Elite Tri Coaching

Preparing for a half marathon can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you are a beginner chasing your first finish line or an experienced runner looking to set a new personal best, a well-structured 12-week half marathon training plan is key to achieving success. At Elite Tri Coaching, the focus is on balancing endurance, speed, and recovery through proven scientific principles tailored to each athlete.

Why You Need a Structured Half Marathon Training Plan

Many runners fall into the trap of running aimlessly without structure. A structured half marathon training plan provides a clear roadmap to follow, ensuring you gradually build endurance and strength while avoiding overtraining and injury.

The 12-week half marathon plan from Elite Tri Coaching offers periodised training blocks that focus on progression, consistency, and measurable results. Each week includes a mix of easy runs, tempo workouts, interval sessions, and long runs, allowing athletes to develop both aerobic and anaerobic capacity.

What Makes Elite Tri Coaching’s Plan Different

Led by certified triathlon coach Richard Keenlyside, Elite Tri Coaching’s half marathon running plan isn’t a generic template. It is built on personalised coaching methodology that integrates the latest in sports science and data analysis.

• Personalised structure: Adjusted to your pace, heart rate, and experience level.

• Science-backed training: Every session serves a specific physiological purpose.

• Balanced approach: Includes recovery strategies, nutrition guidance, and mental training tips.

• Performance tracking: Delivered via TrainingPeaks, ensuring seamless progress monitoring.

Runners benefit from the same coaching principles that Elite Tri Coaching applies to elite-level triathletes — creating an optimal blend of endurance, strength, and race-day readiness.

A Breakdown of the 12-Week Half Marathon Plan

Here’s an overview of what runners can expect from the 12-week half marathon plan:

Weeks 1–4: Base Building Phase

This phase focuses on establishing a solid aerobic foundation. Easy runs and controlled long runs form the core, supported by drills that improve running economy.

Weeks 5–8: Strength and Endurance Development

Here, intensity gradually increases with tempo runs, hill repeats, and threshold sessions. Runners develop muscular endurance and cardiovascular resilience.

Weeks 9–11: Speed and Race Preparation

This period introduces race-pace efforts and sharpening workouts. You’ll fine-tune pacing, nutrition strategies, and mental focus.

Week 12: Taper and Race Execution

Reduced volume and focused rest prepare you for peak performance on race day.

Who the Plan Is For

This half marathon running plan is suitable for:

• Beginners looking to complete their first half marathon safely.

• Intermediate runners aiming to improve consistency and pacing.

• Advanced runners chasing a new PB with structured progression.

Each athlete receives scalable training intensities, ensuring the plan adapts to your fitness level.

Why Choose Elite Tri Coaching for Your Training Plan

At Elite Tri Coaching, the philosophy is simple — train smart, perform better, and enjoy the process. The 12-week half marathon training plan isn’t just about running miles; it’s about developing the mindset and discipline needed to excel.

Coach Richard Keenlyside combines years of competitive experience with cutting-edge coaching techniques to deliver measurable improvements. By using TrainingPeaks, athletes receive real-time feedback and detailed analytics to track progress effectively.

With the Elite Tri Coaching approach, runners can expect:

• Improved endurance and pacing control

• Efficient recovery and reduced injury risk

• Enhanced confidence on race day

  
  

FAQs: 12-Week Half Marathon Training Plan

Q1: How many days per week should I train with this plan? Most runners train between 4–6 days per week, depending on experience. The plan includes rest and recovery days to optimise adaptation.

Q2: Can beginners follow this 12-week half marathon plan? Absolutely. The plan includes flexible pacing zones and progressive workloads suitable for beginners.

Q3: What if I miss a session? Missing an occasional session won’t derail your progress. Consistency over perfection is key, and adjustments can be made through TrainingPeaks.

Q4: Does the plan include cross-training? Yes, optional cross-training sessions are included to enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness without excessive impact.

Q5: How can I access the plan? The full 12-week half marathon running plan is available directly via TrainingPeaks.

Closing Thoughts

A 12-week half marathon training plan is the perfect balance between challenge and opportunity. It provides enough time to build endurance, improve speed, and develop mental resilience — without overwhelming your schedule.

By trusting Elite Tri Coaching and Richard Keenlyside, runners gain access to professional coaching principles that turn goals into achievements. Whether it’s your first half marathon or your fastest one yet, success begins with the right plan.

Richard Keenlyside is a certified Triathlon Coach with extensive experience. For inquiries, please reach out via https://www.elitetricoaching.com/contact or email hello@elitetricoaching.com. Additionally, you can subscribe to the newsletter at Elite Tri Coaching at https://www.elitetricoaching.com.