5 reasons TO do a half marathon [without training]..

in #running5 years ago (edited)

Of all the things that might wind up on your bucket list, running a marathon, or half marathon, is definitely something to consider.

And while running 42 or even 21 kilometers might seem intimidating to some, I'm here to tell you not to worry! You can do it!.... without training.

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Ok, let's get this out of the way right from the start: I am in NO WAY suggesting that you DON'T train for a long, demanding race like a half marathon. I am merely saying if you sign up for one and didn't have time train, or didn't train as well as you would have liked, you shouldn't feel deterred from participating.

So with the PSA aside, let's dive in...

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[ready, set,...GO!]

5 Reasons Why to do a Half Marathon

without training..

1. The Camaraderie


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Halfway there!

It takes a special kind of madness to drag yourself out of bed at stupid-o'clock and beat the pavement with your legs for two and half hours.

This drop of madness, it would seem, bonds people together like Superglue. While your running, your head is screaming "Get me out of here!!" Then you glance at the person next to you and instantly recognize the same agony behind their eyes. You both realize everyone out here must crazy. You can't help but smile at each other and carry on.

All the race venues I have been to have been brimming with joviality. Everyone comes together from all walks of life to attempt the insane. Some are trying to achieve their own personal PR, while others will finish when they finish.

Whatever their reason for being there may be, no one is judging you. You're all in this together.

Just breathe, take your time, slow down, have a chat with a fellow racer, and smile...

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[Riding High!]

2. Sightseeing

What better way to get to know interesting nooks and crannies of a town than by going off the beaten path?

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Since you'll be taking your time, make sure to take it all in. You'll find that it can be rejuvenating to stop and smell the roses along the way.

The half marathon I did recently went through my own town. I was surprised to notice things on the path that I had never picked up on before.

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[sunrise bathes the town in a golden hue]

3. Funny Costumes

Some people go all-out for these events.

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I have been to races with Jack Sparrow, Spiderman and Kung Fu Panda. They're always great for a smile, and it keeps you grounded in a strange way. You can spy the colorful outfits from a mile away, and you'll find yourself spotting them before, during and after the race.

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Last year, I ran the half marathon in a complete traditional Thai outfit. If definitely drew lots of attention, and was a lot of fun. I would say if you plan on dressing up for the run, good on ya, but I would highly suggest doing a few practice runs with it. You don't want to be struggling on race day due to unexpected wardrobe malfunctions or increased heat in the material.

4. Free Food!

If anything, you could go for the free breakfast. There will be snacks throughout the race to help you refuel, as well as hot meals at the finish line. So stock-up! free food 'Nuff said..

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5. A Sense of Accomplishment!

There is a certain rush of relief and joy that you can only experience that moment you step across the finish line and realize You did it!

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[Slow and steady wins the race..]

Sure, you could have stayed in bed and played it safe, but you would probably feel ashamed of yourself for copping out of the race.

No, don't back out.

Take your time, enjoy the smiles, make some friends, and keep the goal in mind.

You can make it and you'll be glad you did!

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What about you? What have been your experiences? Would you add or change anything to this list? I'm looking forward to hearing from ya

Until Then...

note: all unsourced images were produced by the author

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That was a pretty cool post...The images looked like an amazing race, the images are really vibrant.
Regards @run.vince.run

Thanks. I've never thought to bring my camera (phone) on a run before, but I'm glad I did. I think it's probably why I noticed so much more. Keep running, Vince!

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haha, looks like a great time. the 4am start time would eliminate me though :P

I doing a half marathon in just over 1 month, its for charity, and Im excited, been about 10 years since I ran that distance, but like you say, dont let training be a deterrent. :)

That's exciting, and it's always nice to do something for a greater cause. Enjoy the experience and check back in to let us know how it goes :)

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