12-Week Beginner Half Marathon Plan
85 workouts across 12 weeks, with paces calculated from VDOT 33. Estimated half marathon finish: 2:09:48.
Is this 12-week beginner plan right for you?
This is a balanced preparation window with room for base work, quality sessions, and a taper. It prioritizes consistent running, manageable long runs, and finishing with confidence.
Choose this plan if
- Race day is about 12 weeks away.
- You can run 2–3 miles continuously and can protect four running days each week.
- A fixed template peaking at 24.9 miles per week fits your schedule.
Consider another plan if
- Your available days, current mileage, or race date need a schedule tailored to you.
- You already train at a higher volume and want a performance-focused schedule.
- A health concern, unusual pain, or a racing goal that needs professional individual advice is involved.
This free template peaks at 24.9 miles per week (40 km) and covers about 193.9miles total. It is a fixed schedule; a personalized plan uses your race date, current fitness, and available days for $19.99 per race.
Who this plan is for
- You can comfortably run 2–3 miles without stopping
- You've never run a half marathon before (or it's been a while)
- You have 12 weeks before race day
- You can train 4 days per week
- Your main goal is to finish strong and enjoy the experience
Training phases
Your training paces
Based on VDOT 33. Paces are shown in minutes per kilometer; use the VDOT calculator to see the equivalent minutes-per-mile paces for your current result.
Volume progression
Weekly training volume, with miles shown first in the chart and kilometers included for reference. Recovery weeks reduce load by ~30% to allow adaptation.
Want your paces in this plan?
This free template uses VDOT 33 paces. Build a $19.99 personalized plan calibrated to your exact fitness level, race date, and schedule.
Build your plan for $19.99$19.99 intro price — only 100 places left, normally $34.99. Pay once per race.
Compare nearby plan durations
More time generally allows a steadier build; a shorter plan works best when you already have the running base this level expects.