Runners can’t get enough of the half marathon—and for good reason. Not only is it a practical and challenging distance for all levels of runners, but it’s also a race widely offered at running events across the country. Dig through race calendars, and you’ll likely find plenty of half marathons in bucket-list locations and even your own backyard.
And whether you’re looking to run your first or best half marathon, the run/walk method could be the smart, sustainable strategy you need to strongly cross the finish line. Runner’s World’s program, How to Master the Run/Walk Method, give you the training tools and plans necessary to conquer the 13.1-mile distance with walk intervals. Beginners and experienced run/walkers can find one of several training plans that fit their goals and give them confidence in their physical and mental fitness heading into race day.
In Runner’s World’s How to Master the Run/Walk Method: Train for a Half Marathon, we’ll teach you: The half marathon consistently ranks as one of the most popular race distances among runners. According to the 2026 RunningUSA Global Runner Survey, 38 percent of nearly 12,000 surveyed runners said the half was their favorite event—20 percentage points higher than the next most preferred distance (the marathon). The run/walk method can make the distance manageable for all levels of runners and even help you get a new personal record.
People were dropping like flies. I was able to maintain and be consistent by just keeping up the intervals.” To find your goal half marathon pace, use your data from your Magic Mile time trial. Multiply your timed mile by 1.2 to get your half marathon race pace.
You’ll also use that pace to set your training paces and run/walk intervals you’ll use during your buildup to race day. Runner’s World has three run/walk training plans to choose from to prepare for your half marathon: a beginner, intermediate, and advanced plan. Over anywhere from six to 16 weeks, you’ll incorporate run/walk workouts, easy walks, long runs, cross-training sessions, and rest days into your training block to build your endurance, speed, and confidence ahead of your half marathon.
Ideal for: Runners who have never completed a half marathon before. Using this plan, you’ll have two midweek run/walk workouts lasting 30 to 45 minutes each week, along with one easy walk for 20 to 45 minutes, two days with a cross-training option, and at least one rest day. You’ll also have weekend long runs, which start at two miles and work up to 14 miles—longer than the 13.1-mile race distance.
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