Running your first half marathon is a huge achievement. It takes physical preparation, mental strength and commitment but if you’ve never taken on 13.1 miles before, knowing what to expect can feel daunting.

From the moments you question whether you’re ready, to the feeling of crossing that finish line, here are the things every first-time half marathon participant should know.

The training won’t always feel easy (and that’s OK)

Not every run will feel easy.  Some runs will leave you feeling unstoppable, while others might have you wondering why you signed up in the first place.

That’s completely normal. Progress isn’t always obvious, and one bad run doesn’t mean you’re not ready. Every mile you complete is building your fitness, confidence and resilience. Trust the process, the training you put in really does pay off.

Having a plan you can trust can make all the difference. Runna helps participants build personalised training plans, taking the guesswork out of preparation and helping you feel ready for event day.

Don’t forget to enjoy the journey

It’s easy to get caught up chasing a time, sticking to a plan or comparing yourself to others. But your first half marathon is about more than just the finish time.

Take in the atmosphere, enjoy the crowds and celebrate the support around you. Share your journey along the way, from training runs to crossing the finish line and don’t forget to tag us so we can celebrate your achievement with you. Your first half marathon is an experience you’ll remember forever.

Preparation makes event day easier

Event day nerves can make even the simplest things feel overwhelming, so don’t leave everything until the last minute.

Make a  checklist, prepare your kit, pack your trainers, nutrition and have everything ready the night before. A little organisation can make your morning feel much calmer.

Your journey is your own

With social media, it’s easy to compare yourself to runners going further or faster. But everyone starts somewhere.

Your first half marathon isn’t about matching someone else’s pace it’s about challenging yourself and being proud of what you achieve.

Never try anything new on event day

New trainers, new clothes or new nutrition might seem like a good idea, but event day isn’t the time for experiments.

Stick with what you’ve tested during training. The last thing you want is a blister, uncomfortable kit or an upset stomach halfway through 13.1 miles.

Slow and steady wins the event

You don’t need to be ready overnight. Building up gradually, staying consistent and listening to your body will get you much further than trying to do everything at once. Doing too much too soon can lead to injury or burnout.

Start slower than you think

The atmosphere, crowds and excitement of event day can make you feel like you could run faster than ever. But remember: you’ve got 13.1 miles ahead of you.

Settle into your pace, save your energy and enjoy the finish even more.

You will have moments where you want to stop

Every runner has moments where they want to stop. That doesn’t mean you’re failing it means you’re challenging yourself. Break the distance down, focus on one mile, one step or one moment at a time. You’ve already done the hard work to get here.

Enjoy the moment

Your first half marathon will challenge you, but it will also give you a feeling you won’t forget.

Trust yourself, enjoy the experience and remember you’re a half marathon runner the moment you cross that start line.