The half marathon is growing quickly in popularity. How do I know? Well, for the first time in my running life I am having to enter a lottery registration for a half. And earlier this year I paid a record $125 bucks to run a half and it seemed to be full of other suckers who were willing to shell out the coin to run 13 miles.
Currently, I am forced to watch all of you train for your fall marathons while I endure 105 degree days and wait it out. For my running buddies and I, our marathons come in the spring. Since I often use half marathons as a great way to spice up my training I am going to get to run some pretty cool races again this fall; and I am noticing something very interesting – half marathons are selling out quickly.
According to a recent article on Austin 360, the half is the fastest growing distance for runners. Growing by double digits from 06-07. I suspect most folks are drawn to it for the same reason I am. It’s still a big accomplishment, that requires you to stay fit, but doesn’t put the incredible strain on your body that training for a full 26 does.
For a new runner a half marathon makes a great introduction to the sport. It’s a great confidence builder and like the potato chip, no one can run just one. The typical first timer can jump from the 5-6 mile distance to half marathon ready in a matter of weeks, making it well within most runners reach.
What’s your favorite race distance?
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
The only thing I’ve run thus far is a few 5k races, so I guess that’s my default favorite. I’ll probably tackle a 10k before too long (once things cool off a bit).
I’m not sure I could do a half, but I do admire you! I’ve done a 5K or two every year and that’s challenging for me.
.-= Diane Fit to the Finish´s last blog ..Stand Up For Yourself! =-.
It doesn’t surprise me too much that a 1/2 is so popular. As you say, it’s still quite the accomplishment, but not nearly as much stress on your body as a full. I’ve got my first 1/2 marathon coming up in just 2 weeks, and I’m also registered for the Rock ‘n’ Roll 1/2 marathon in Las Vegas in December (registration was $145 for that one!)
.-= Brandon´s last blog ..Tree Things =-.
In a couple of weeks? LOL well not for this lass anyway. But I’m slooooow. I like a good chunk of time to be extra sure. I must agree though, it seems like they are all the rage right now. Everyone I know, virtually and in real life are on the band wagon.
.-= Rita @ The Giggly Bits´s last blog ..Five Common Running Injuries and Ailments =-.
Good thing they’re so popular! This way no one will see me huffing and puffing my way to a 13.1 finish with all the other runners surrounding me!
Amica Half Marathon, I’m coming for you!
.-= Tara´s last blog ..Team in Training- the beginning =-.
Wow, for the first time in my life I’m doing something WHILE it’s popular! haha. Training for my first half in January. I’m able to run around 5-6 miles now, and it boggles my mind that I’ll be running THIRTEEN in just 5 months.
.-= josie´s last blog ..Week 45 – Weigh-In and a Confession =-.