Hey everybody,

just curious about peoples half marathon time, and comparing first time with there second/third etc. I achieved a 1:32 for my first time which was a struggle for me, i will be amazed if I can beat that this april 25th. Does it get harder second time round?

Also, any runners have a specific nutrients/supplements that feel they really benefit them?

Good luck for anyone running this April!

How long ago was this first half-marathon, and have you been in continuous training since?

For those who take up training for a few months to run one particular (half-)marathon, then a few years later decide to have another go at the same thing, the previous training will be irrelevant; they'll be no fitter than someone attempting their first ever. On the other hand, someone who's remained in training after the first race and is now approaching their second, will find it comes much more easily, although they may not be able to post any much better a time.

First one this April. I've entered 1:55 on the entry forms - I'm determined to crack 2 hours but having never run one before I'm not aiming for anything spectacular. Only concern is I've heard the start of the Sheffield half "bottle-necks" a bit near the start and everyone ends up walking...

1:32 is pretty fast for a half (congrats). You must be tempted to break 1:30 though?! My best is 1:38, which I did at the Sheffield half 2 years ago, hoping to get near that this year; as for nutrients, maybe extra carbs, and good hydration (drink plenty on morning of the race, but not too close to the race itself, don't want to stop mid-race for the loo!).

Also, early nights for a few days prior to the race, and really need to do an extra run each week now, so more training.

Not sure how scientific any of the above advice is..

Your 1.32 is a very good time.

I've ran two half-marathons but years apart; I am presently training for my third.

Sunday 7th June 1987 - 1 hour, 37 minutes, 29.9 seconds.

Sunday 27th April 1997 - 1 hour, 49:48 seconds.

Sunday 25th April 2010 - Aiming for sub two hours.

Only concern is I've heard the start of the Sheffield half "bottle-necks" a bit near the start and everyone ends up walking...

You get this and it is inevitable.

Just be patient and ensure you don't start your own stopwatch until you pass the start line. You will easily make up for 'lost' time throughout the race.

Hey guys,

My 1:32 is my first half marathon April 2009, i think i set an unrealistic goal at the beginning, but i guess thats what got me through it. People said i would get no where near the 1:30, so i guess thats what pushed me.

The funniest thing i can remember about that day was the queues in the toilets. Then once the marathon began , about 1 mile into it so many people were jumping into and behind bushes to relieve themselves. I decided to run the whole race with a full bladder, as time was of the essence.

Once of the best days I have ever had.....

Me too patch012003, it's always a pleasure, the post-race feelings of jubilation are the best! (esp. if you beat your friends / training buddies)

@brianthedog:

I wouldn't worry so much about the bottle neck at the start; it is slightly cramped as you go through the (very short) tunnel that exits the stadium, but once you hit the road, it's wide and you'll be good (and not to mention lapping up the atmosphere).

Best of luck everyone.

under two hours is good for a first attempt

My first 1/2 marathon will be this years Sheffield, I am hoping to run sub 1:30. This maybe a bit ambitious, however my first training run was the full distance in about 1:44 , but that was on quite a hilly course. So it maybe achievable assuming the weather is not too hot.

Sorry to hijack the thread!

I am looking for a place in the half-marathon. I will be running to raise funds for the Chilean Earthquake Appeal on behalf of the Sheffield-based Chile Sports & Cultural Development Association. You can see info. about the organisation here: chilescda.org

Needless to say, I would reimburse entry fee and you would have my eternal gratitude.

I would really appreciate it if people could pass on this message if they hear of anyone dropping out.

Many thanks
Fran