RunPackGuides · 5 min read
Training for a half marathon with friends
How to train for a half marathon as a group: choosing a race, following a plan together at different paces, long runs, and staying on track when life gets busy.
A half marathon is a big goal, and much more fun with friends. Training together means company on long runs and people to keep you honest midweek, plus someone to celebrate with at the finish.
Choose the race together
Pick a race far enough away that everyone has time to build up from where they are now. Most beginner half marathon plans run for several months; if someone is starting from scratch, aim for a 5K or 10K first. See a first 5K with friends.
Same plan, own paces
Pick one plan for the group so you’re all on the same week. Everyone runs the sessions at their own pace. That way the long run on Sunday is the same distance for all of you, even if you don’t run it side by side.
Long runs together
The weekly long run is the best one to share. Run it at a conversational pace, and for mixed paces use loops or out-and-backs so you meet up often. More ideas in running with someone faster or slower.
Midweek on your own
Shorter weekday runs fit around work, so most people do them alone. Sharing them with the group keeps everyone on track.
When life gets in the way
- Missed a run? Move on; don’t try to cram it in.
- Missed a week? Repeat the last week you completed rather than jumping ahead.
- Feeling flat? Take it easy. A quick check on sleep and energy helps you decide.
Race day
Decide in advance whether you’re running together or meeting at the finish. Start slower than feels right, and plan where to meet afterwards.
How RunPack helps
RunPack puts every training run your group does in a private crew feed, whatever device recorded it, and the morning check-in suggests when to keep it easy. Free for crews of up to 4. See how a crew works.
If you have a health condition, check with a doctor before starting a training plan.