That’s because there are certain neuro-muscular adaptations that need to take place for your body to be in condition to operate at the intensity it takes to run at a certain pace – for a sub-2:00, we’re talking 5.40/km. You may experience muscle cramping and even fatigue, to the point where your muscles don’t have anything more to give. The average person might be able to run for 5km quite comfortably, but the effort starts to take its toll after that. Why do I need to train to run for two hours? How long will it take to train for a sub-2:00? What if you don’t just want to finish? Where do you start if you have a time goal in mind? Training Runners enjoy comparing their times with friends, both at home and abroad.

Secondly, the distance is recognised across the world not just in our country. If you can do a parkrun, then you can do a half marathon – even if you have to walk some of it.

Running 21.1km is achievable for most people – whereas running a full marathon puts severe physical stress on the body. The half marathon is a popular distance in South Africa for two reasons. The good news is, you can do it if you work hard and follow the right training plan. Finishing a half marathon in under two hours is a common goal for many South African runners.

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