Tag Archive for: half marathon

How Long Will it Take You to Finish a Marathon?

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Know the 6 factors that may impact your marathon finish time

A marathon is 26.2 miles (42.2K) long. While most elite runners can finish a marathon in the 2-hour range, age group runner’s finish times vary greatly. We review the average finish times for different ages below. Runners usually have 8 hours to complete the designated 26.2-mile distance.  There are several factors that can influence how long it can take you to finish a marathon. If you already know your running pace, use this helpful pace chart to help predict your finish time or set a new goal!

Training and pace

Runner Pace Chart for 5K Half Marathon and marathon finish time predictionLike every competition, preparation is critical for a marathon. The amount of training you put in every day before the race is crucial to how your body acclimatizes itself to running long distances. You can roughly calculate how long it could take you to finish a marathon by taking your mile time and comparing it with a marathon pace chart. For example, if you’re completing a mile in 15 minutes then you would likely reach the finish line in about 6.5 hours.

If you don’t know your base pace, you can calculate it. There are tons of different pace calculators available on the internet. Another good way to figure out your base pace is to run a 5K. Your pace in the final mile is a good place to start for predicting your pace. Since you are planning a longer distance you will want to add anywhere from 30 seconds to a minute to calculate your full marathon pace.

Many marathons will have pace groups for certain times to help guide finishers. These pace times can differ from race to race but many times include the required qualifying times for the Boston Marathon. The Austin Marathon is a Boston Marathon Qualifier with hundreds of people getting their BQ each year. 

  • Pace groups available: 2:59, 3:05, 3:10, 3:15, 3:20, 3:25, 3:30, 3:35, 3:40, 3:45, 3:50, 3:55, 4:00, 4:05, 4:20, 4:35, and 4:50
  • The pace group leaders will run “even splits.” This means that every mile will be run at approximately the same pace
  • Think of them as a moving finish line with your goal time pinned to the back of their shirts

Age and gender

Although age and gender do not restrict your ability as a runner, there are considerable differences in the stats in these categories. On average, men complete a marathon in a little more than 4 hours, while women take roughly 4.5 hours. The marathon running population is typically 30-40 percent female and 60-70 percent male. People of all ages complete a marathon, though the bulk are between 30 and 50 years of age. 

Average finish time by gender and age group from the 2020 Austin Marathon

Average Finisher Times based on age group for the austin marathon

These stats are important to know so that you can plan accordingly and maybe even take home an age group award. Age group awards are usually presented to the top 3 male and female overall in each age group. Categories begin with 19 & under and end with 85+. Groups increase in five-year increments.

Awards for the Austin Marathon (for male and female) include:

  • Overall champion
  • 2nd place
  • 3rd place
  • Age Groups: 19 & under 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-85, 85+

Terrain and weather

One part that can affect how long it takes to finish a marathon is the course’s terrain. The flatter the course, the lesser the effort required to run on it. But terrain does not necessarily dictate success or make a course hard or easy. With proper training for a course, you can set a PR (personal record) on all different styles of course. Pro tip: Try and run the course before race day. Practice some of your long runs on the course if you can!

As much as terrain decides the intensity of the challenge, weather can significantly impact how long it will take you to finish a marathon. If it is warmer than normal, your energy could drain faster. Your body consumes more energy to perform the task at hand and keep your body cool. Participants normally prefer the cooler temperatures in the winter months. But as with everything, if it gets too cold this could impact your time because it could take longer to warm up at the start.

Knowing about these factors and how they can impact how long it could take you to finish a marathon will help on race day. Keep a record of your time and work to improve it at your next marathon. With proper training and dedication, you could set a brand new marathon PR! How do you prepare for these factors during your training? Have they impacted how long it took you to finish a marathon? Let us know in the Austin Marathon Facebook Group or on Twitter.

Run Austin Virtual Series Introduces Third Event, Round the River 4-Miler

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Round the River 4-Miler is named after popular loop on Austin’s Hike and Bike Trail

In July, the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon presented by Under Armour and 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour created the Run Austin Virtual Series. Everyone is invited to participate in the 6-month-long virtual series. The events provide monthly milestones as participants train for Austin’s two most beloved running events. The Run Austin Virtual Series began with the Wildflower Mile in July and the Armadillo 5K in August. The series will continue in September with the Round the River 4-Miler. Future events will be revealed at the beginning of each month, finishing with a 10-miler in December.

“The Run Austin Virtual Series gives us something to look forward to and a reason to keep pushing (literally),” said Samantha Santos, who has completed the first two events pushing her kids in a stroller. “We talk about the races and the kids know when we’re “racing” and we celebrate our finishes with smoothies or donuts!”

Run Austin Virtual Series perks

Participants of the Run Austin Virtual Series receive themed, downloadable personalized bibs, digital finisher medals, and finisher certificates. Participants will also enjoy fun extras like an online finisher photo booth and virtual reality filters for social media. Registration is open for each of the events for $18. Free entry to the entire six-event series, a $108 value,  is available to participants of the 2021 3M Half Marathon or the 2021 Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K. New distances are launched at the beginning of each month. Limited-edition merchandise customized for each event will be available for purchase throughout the series.

“Participants love the Run Austin Virtual Series because it’s provided them with fun and engaging monthly milestones,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. “This month’s Round the River 4-Miler is named after the popular 4-mile loop on Austin’s famous Hike and Bike Trail on Lady Bird Lake.”

Run Austin 2021

Austin’s flagship running event, the Austin Marathon, will celebrate its 30th anniversary on February 14th. It annually attracts runners from all 50 states and 35+ countries around the world. The start and finish locations are just a few blocks apart. They are within walking distance of many downtown hotels and restaurants. The finish line is in front of the picturesque Texas State Capitol. The Austin Marathon is the perfect running weekend destination. Registration is currently open.

The 3M Half Marathon boasts one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country. It will celebrate its 27th year running on January 17th. Runners will enjoy a point-to-point course with mostly downhill running. The 13.1-mile course showcases some of Austin’s finest locations. Participants start in north Austin and finish near the Texas State Capitol. Many participants set their 13.1-mile PR because of the 300’ net elevation drop. Registration is currently open.

How Cycling Can Help You Improve Your Running Performance

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Improve your running performance when you add cycling to your training

Are you a marathon runner looking to optimize your performance? Have you recently discovered marathons and want to learn more about training? Either way, maximizing your stamina, endurance, and physical fitness is crucial to improving your running performance.

Running is an activity that necessitates the use of leg muscles to a large extent. A complete training program is crucial if you want to improve your running performance. It’s important to exercise and strengthen all muscle groups. Fitness experts recommend that you cross-train. Cycling is a great way to cross-train. Riding your bike at least once a week can help you train smarter and improve your running performance as a marathoner.

Cross-training involves activities other than your usual sport. In the case of marathoners, it involves exercises other than running. You might run fewer miles, but cross-training helps engage more muscle groups, enhance endurance, and strengthen leg muscles.

Why cycling is beneficial

Many runners choose cycling for their cross-training and also follow this advice when increasing their mileage. Here are some benefits runners can take advantage of when they begin cycling:

Prevent overuse of leg muscles

Overuse injuries are very common in long-distance running. Integrating another activity can make all the difference between an overuse injury and making it to the finish line. Using the bike reduces impact on your body, especially your feet, while continuing to strengthen your leg muscles. Pro tip: if something doesn’t feel right, get it checked out! Learn how the Ascension Seton Sports Performance experts can get you back on track and headed to your goal.

Strengthen complementary muscles

While short distance runs or sprints can help build muscles, long-distance running is known to hinder muscle growth. The main muscle groups used in cycling are the upper leg muscles like your quadriceps and hamstrings. However, you also use your calf muscles, gastrocnemius, and soleus. Cycling also engages your core and back while giving your arms and shoulders a good workout. As a form of resistance workout, cycling builds and strengthens these different muscle groups.

Expand lung capacity

True, you’ll log fewer running miles by cycling. But you won’t sacrifice some of running’s benefits, like expanding your lung capacity. Simply put, the more fresh oxygen you take in, the more oxygen can be pumped to your muscles. That’s a good thing! While on the bike, you can also practice breathing patterns. The more you can comfortably control your breathing, the lower you can keep your heart rate. A lowered heart rate can relieve some of the stress your body experiences during training.

Cycling is an ideal addition that can better your aerobic system while being easier on your muscles, joints, and tendons. Riding your bike once or twice can improve your running performance. It’s a great complementary activity that can help you achieve faster running times and reduce the chance injuries. Do you cycle as a means of cross-training? Let us know why in the Austin Marathon Facebook Group or on Twitter.

Inspiring Story about How to Make the Impossible Possible

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A personal story of weight loss, finding self love, and running a marathon.

In this story we meet Kiah Twisselman, who you may recognize from her appearances in People Magazine, Women’s Health Magazine, or on Good Morning America. Kiah believed that her goals were impossible, but with some very simple steps, she was able to overcome obstacles and make her wishes come to life.

This goal to make the impossible possible is that mindset that Kiah wishes to share with her story. She wants to teach people the mental tools she has used to create a life of joy from the inside out.

Now that Kiah has lost over 125 pounds she has a new goal in site, completing her first marathon. Kiah shares her story and invites you to follow her as she trains for the 30th annual Ascension Seton Austin Marathon on February 14, 2021.

 

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Frustrated and Ready for Change  

My name is Kiah and I’m a cattle rancher turned entrepreneur and life coach. I was raised on my family’s cattle ranch in rural California. I battled with my weight all through my childhood up to my mid-twenties. My mindset told me there was no way I could have a healthy lifestyle. I played the victim to my obesity for years, blaming my genetics for why I couldn’t lose the weight. My career was my excuse for why I didn’t invest in the gym. There wasn’t enough time and money.

In 2018, I was on a flight for work. For the first time in my life, I had to request a seatbelt extender. It felt like a new low for me. Coincidentally, just before the flight, I purchased “Girl, Wash Your Face” by Rachel Hollis. That book contained the words I needed to read at the exact time I needed to read them. Hollis’ book was my wake-up call. If I wanted to change anything about my life – my career, my health, my lifestyle – then I needed to take ownership of my life. I needed to start making better choices for myself.

I shifted my motivation for my weight loss. I went from a place of self-hate and desperation to a place of choosing to be one percent better each day because I LOVED myself enough to show up and do the hard work. Share on X

5 Simple Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle

Later that year, October 1, 2018, I started my health journey (again) with five simple habits as part of Hollis’ Last 90 Days Challenge. 

  1. Wake up one hour earlier for yourself
  2. Give up one food that doesn’t bless your body
  3. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water
  4. Write down 10 things you’re grateful for
  5. Move your body for at least 30 minutes a day

After 90 days I lost 25 pounds. For the first time in my life, I didn’t feel like I was making empty promises to myself every New Year. More importantly than the habits, I had really started to work on my mindset.

In one year, without any fad diets or a gym membership, I lost 103 pounds. What had seemed impossible was possible. To date, I have lost more than 125 pounds. 

 

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If you want something you’ve never had, you have to do something you’ve never done. I’m so proud of us for finishing our FIRST 5k race! We didn’t come in first, not even close, but you know what? We lapped everyone sitting on their couch and we FINISHED! I’m so thankful for these beautiful, encouraging people in my life. When the tide rises, all the ships rise together. When we are strong for ourselves, we lift up the ones around us. Don’t be afraid to get in the race. It will be hard, but it will be so worth it. Courage over comfort, always. And yes, you better believe this health journey is #FueledByBeef! ??? ••• #slo5k #raceslo #5k #beefit #sanluisobispo #beef #fueledbybeef #eatbeef #beefitswhatsfordinner #courageovercomfort #madeformore #phitnphat

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The Next Step: Run a Marathon

Earlier this year I had the incredible honor of being featured in People Magazine, Good Morning America, Access Hollywood, and Women’s Health for my weight loss transformation. Now I’m a full-time life coach and weight loss coach. My mission is to empower others around the world to love themselves through health and happiness, too.

I want to teach people the mental tools I learned that helped me create a life of joy from the inside out. Share on X

My journey is far from over. I continuously challenge my own beliefs about what is possible. Running used to be my least favorite activity of all time. Yet here I am training for the 30th annual Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, my very first marathon! Amazing things can happen when we start believing in ourselves. I look forward to seeing you on-course and at the finish line in February 2021!

Kiah’s bright personality and real love for life shine through in everything she does. We know that she will absolutely crush her goal of becoming a marathon finisher. Be sure to her journey and connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.

Remember, you too can make the impossible possible, just believe in yourself. Looking for a supportive community? Join our Facebook Group and follow our blog for our latest advice and more inspirational stories.