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Half Marathon Distance Calculator

Standard Half Marathon Distance:

\[ D = 13.1 \text{ miles or } 21.0975 \text{ km} \]

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1. What is a Half Marathon?

A half marathon is a road running event of 13.1 miles (21.0975 kilometers). It's half the distance of a full marathon and is a popular challenge for both beginner and experienced runners.

2. Standard Distance

The official half marathon distance is always:

\[ D = 13.1 \text{ miles or } 21.0975 \text{ km} \]

This distance is standardized by international athletics organizations and is used for all official half marathon races worldwide.

3. Training Considerations

Training Duration: Most training plans last 10-16 weeks, depending on your current fitness level.

Weekly Mileage: Beginner plans typically start with 10-15 miles per week, building to 20-30 miles at peak.

4. Using the Calculator

Functionality: This calculator simply displays the standard half marathon distance in either miles or kilometers. Select your preferred unit and click "Show Distance".

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is a half marathon 13.1 miles?
A: It's exactly half the distance of a full marathon (26.2 miles), which itself originates from the distance run in the 1908 London Olympics.

Q2: How long does it take to run a half marathon?
A: Times vary widely. Beginners may take 2-3 hours, while elite runners finish in under 1 hour 10 minutes.

Q3: Is a half marathon good for beginners?
A: Yes, with proper training. It's a challenging but achievable goal for most healthy individuals.

Q4: How many calories does a half marathon burn?
A: Approximately 1,200-1,500 calories, depending on weight and running efficiency.

Q5: What's the difference between a half marathon and a 20K?
A: A 20K is about 12.4 miles, while a half marathon is 13.1 miles - nearly 0.7 miles longer.

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