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12 Week Advanced Half Marathon Training Plan

For advanced-level runners aiming for their best possible performance.

Experience Level

Advanced

Number of Weeks

12

Training Plan Introduction

Ready to shave minutes off your half marathon time and finish feeling strong?

This 12-Week Half Marathon Plan brings you a clear, step-by-step framework that makes every run count. Each session is purposeful and proven to build your endurance, speed, and confidence. Expect to see genuine progress in the weeks ahead—just like countless runners who’ve raved about cutting minutes from their PB and feeling well-prepared on race day.

Achieve Your Goals

  • Peak Performance: Rely on a structured plan that guides you toward your best finish yet.
  • Boost Endurance & Speed: Balance targeted endurance runs with race-pace efforts, so you stay comfortable even when the miles stack up.
  • Stay Motivated: Varied sessions and clear daily guidance keep training fresh and engaging—no more guessing what to do next.
  • Save Time: Short, focused workouts slip easily into a busy lifestyle, with tips on swapping runs for club sessions if needed.
  • Gain Confidence: See steady improvements week by week, knowing every workout serves a purpose in getting you race-ready.

Is This The Half Marathon Training Plan For You?

  • Balanced Progress: Five runs a week, each designed to push your fitness without overwhelming your schedule.
  • Proven Training Structure: From your base-building phase through your final taper, every step is laid out so you know why—and how—you’re training.
  • Seamless Smartwatch Integration: Follow each workout live, chart your progress, and stay motivated with real-time feedback.
  • Clear Guidance: Every run includes a quick explanation of its purpose, so you always feel confident about what you’re doing and why.

Key Features

Structured Training

Three Phases, One Goal: Each block blends endurance building with speed development—an ideal balance that runners love for hitting peak performance.

  • Block 1: Base Endurance & Race Pace Intro
  • Block 2: Endurance & Speed Development
  • Block 3: Race Pace & Peaking

5 Runs Per Week
Every session has a clear focus, helping you use your training time effectively.

Club Run Flexibility
Built-in guidance shows you which sessions can be swapped for your club nights without disrupting your progress.

Integrated Smartwatch Support

  • Real-Time Tracking: Stay on pace and never wonder if you’re hitting your targets.

Progressive Variety

  • Endurance Runs, Race Pace Efforts, Speed Sessions, and Tapering: The plan evolves with you—keeping workouts fresh and challenges appropriate.

Time-Efficient Sessions

  • Average Workout ~1 Hour: Tighter midweek sessions mean you can train effectively while balancing work, family, and other priorities.

Who Is This Half Marathon Training Plan For?

  • Experienced Runners: If a 90-minute run is manageable, you’re ready for these advanced workouts.
  • PB Chasers: Perfect if you’re determined to beat your personal best.
  • Dedicated Performers: Ideal for anyone seeking structure, progression, and clear-cut results.

What You Get

  • 5 Runs Each Week: Purposeful, easy-to-follow workouts that maximize every minute on your feet.
  • 2–3 Rest Days: Space to recover so you stay fresh and avoid burnout.

12 Weeks of Detailed, Progressive Training

  • Weeks 1–4: Build a strong base, introducing pace sharpening so you get used to moving faster.
  • Weeks 5–8: Shift to race-pace work, stretching challenging efforts and boosting speed.
  • Weeks 9–12: Hone your race pace, taper your volume, and arrive fresh for a strong finish on race day.

 

A fully integrated training calendar keeps you on track, plus email support if you ever need help or an extra boost.

 

Added Extra Benefits

  • Expert Support: Draw on 13 years of coaching expertise.
  • Smartwatch Integration: Follow every workout live—no guesswork needed.
  • Plan Guidance & Setup: Get clear tips on setting up your plan and conquering race day.
  • Race Day Guides & Warm-Up Videos: Know exactly how to prepare so you feel confident and energized at the start line.

Your Next Level Awaits

Harness a plan that merges time efficiency, purposeful progression, and proven methods to help you excel on race day. Embrace the journey, push your limits, and watch your half marathon performance reach new heights.

Training Plan Sample(s)

Training Plan Cost

Training plans are processed in USD $. Conversions are estimates.

Full Compatibility

This training plan is compatible with...

Your Coach

Chris Searle the head coach of efficient endurance

Hi, I’m Chris.

I’m a UK-based, qualified running and triathlon coach with 12 years of professional experience.

I’ve coached athletes to achieve everything from parkrun personal bests to podium finishes at national events.

My approach focuses on efficient training methods to help you reach your running goals, whether that is completing your first race or setting a new PB.

FAQ's

These plans are tailored for athletes of all levels, from beginners to advanced, looking to maximize their performance. If you’re unsure of which level you are, get in touch!

The only thing you need is a trainingpeaks account and the usual running kit (running shoes and adequate clothing) but to get the most out of your training plan, having the following would be ideal:

  • Compatible* smartwatch

The following items are optimal but not necessary:

  • Chest Based Heart Rate Monitor

*All common devices sync with trainingpeaks, check here to see if your device is compatible with the structured workout feature so you can follow your sessions on the go.

Training sessions are written in an optimal order for improvement, progression and recovery, but plans change and when they do you can move sessions across days and weeks with a premium training peaks account.

If you need to move things around but are not sure what is best, get in touch and I will help you out.

Most likely. Plans that have strength sessions included use weights such as dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells and cable machines. You don’t have to do these sessions but they add another dimension to your training that running alone can not do.

Sometimes, we have to miss a session, life gets in the way. Fortunately these plans are robust and consistency and efficiency will keep you progressing. Don’t fret over a missed session and don’t try and catch up either, you will still keep moving forwards.

You can adjust the schedule or swap sessions with a premium training peaks account; email support is available for advice if you’re unsure of what to do.

Every session includes detailed instructions and the rationale behind it. Feel free to email if further clarification is needed.

Improved endurance, better race-specific fitness, and confidence on race day. Results depend on how disciplined you are to the plan- it is designed to keep you motivated.

Our guarantee ensures that you are on the right training plan for you. If you find your plan is too much, too little, too hard or too easy, get in touch and we will swap you onto a more suitable plan.

We would love to issue refunds but do not have the option for this as payment is taken by trainingpeaks.

Absolutely! Email support is available for guidance and motivation.

We only provide support for the duration of your plan and 2 weeks afterwards. If you would like coaching after your plan, get in touch!

Why choose Efficient Endurance

Efficient Endurance Training Plan

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Ability-based plans & email support
  • Expert Input - Designed by a qualified, experienced coach
  • Structured Progression - Detailed progression
  • Detailed Sessions - Clear explanation of how sessions support your goal
  • Training Volume - Balanced for your level
  • Race-Specific Prep - Includes taper weeks & race guides
  • Strength Training - Targeted strength sessions*
  • Cross Training** - Cross training sessions available**
  • Tech Integration - Compatible with smartwatches
  • Support & Advice - Email support from a coach
  • Plan Guarantee - Free plan swap if needed
  • Cost - $3 per week

Free Training Plan

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Generic & non-specific
  • Expert Input - No professional input
  • Structured Progression - Some progression
  • Detailed Sessions - No explanations
  • Training Volume - Inconsistent and limited
  • Detailed Sessions - No race-specific advice
  • Race-Specific Prep - Not included
  • Strength Training - Not Included
  • Cross Training** - Not included
  • Tech Integration - No compatibility
  • Support & Advice - No support offered
  • Plan Guarantee - No other plans
  • Cost - Free

Other Premium Training Plans

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Limited ability variations
  • Expert Input - Created by a qualified coach
  • Structured Progression - Include generic progression
  • Detailed Sessions - No explanations
  • Training Volume - Suitable volume for athletes
  • Race-Specific Prep - Minimal race-day strategy
  • Strength Training - May have generic strength work
  • Cross Training** - Not included
  • Tech Integration - May have device compatibility
  • Support & Advice - Occasional support, sometimes outsourced
  • Plan Guarantee - Limited or no guarantee
  • Cost - $3-5 per week

AI Training Plan

  • Customised to Athlete Goals - Algorithm-based, lacks nuance
  • Expert Input - Automated, no human touch
  • Structured Progression - Only if the algorithm says so
  • Detailed Sessions - No explanations
  • Training Volume - Metrics can miscalculate workload
  • Race-Specific Prep - Lacks detailed guidance
  • Strength Training - Rarely included
  • Cross Training** - Sometimes compatible
  • Tech Integration - May have device compatibility
  • Support & Advice - No human support available
  • Plan Guarantee - No guarantees
  • Cost - $10+ per week

* Strength training included on some training plans at additional cost

** Cross training is available on some specific plans

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8 Week Beginner Half Marathon Training Plan With Strength Sessions

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