I trained for a half-marathon in four months as a beginning runner at 42. Here’s how it went

Our featured picks

Everyday running shoes for beginners

Hoka Women’s Bondi 9 Running Shoes

Read our review

For beginner runners with weak knees

Hyperice X 2 Knee Hot/Cold Compression Cuff

Supportive running bra that provides coverage

Ciele TRN Tank Bra

Great bike shorts that prevent chafing

Vuori 6-Inch AllTheForm Shorts

For cooler weather runs

Salomon Women’s Sense Aero Hybrid Cropped Pullover

This article is part of CNN Underscored’s Guide to Laidback Living, an editorial package focused on screen-free activities to inspire you to go “analog” this year. We’ll be featuring articles and information on our favorite hobbies to help you find new ways to hit pause, connect with others and enjoy your free time.

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I’m not going to sugarcoat it: Picking up running as a 42-year-old is tough. So is training for a half-marathon, especially for someone like me who’s never completed, or even considered, one before.

I wasn’t a runner. I was your typical hot-yoga-loving, hiking-addicted Los Angeles local who made fun of runners because, honestly, why would you put your body through all that? And my knees — oh, my weak knees — made picking it up even harder.

On the other hand, I also love a good challenge. So, when I was invited to run the Santa Barbara Half-Marathon, I thought, “Why the heck not? 13 miles isn’t that bad. I’ve hiked far more than that distance in high altitude.” By the time my brain recalibrated from that mental lapse, however, it would’ve been embarrassing to take my “yes” back.

Although the thought of running 13 miles alongside experienced marathoners terrified me, I was also excited at the prospect of tackling a new challenge. Still, seeing as I wasn’t in my 20s anymore, the big question wasn’t so much whether or not I wanted to do it but whether or not I physically could do it.

The only way to find out was to try.

Related article I’m not a runner, but here’s how I got from the couch to 5K in no time

How I planned to train as a beginner

Training for a race is a massive learning experience for a beginner because you’re entering a world that’s much more complex than it seems. Running is a sport, after all, so there’s a correct technique, a right way for your feet to land on the ground and a proper way to move forward without expending so much energy. I heard somewhere that to run more effectively, you have to learn to relax your body while it’s working at a high power output. This is far harder than it sounds.

Running is also just one part of the equation. You also have to be consistent with your strength workouts and prioritize recovery, which includes getting a lot of rest and eating the right foods. It’s a massive change in lifestyle for someone who usually goes to sleep at midnight, wakes up at 6 a.m. and eats (and drinks) whatever she feels like.

A training plan, therefore, was an absolute must for me. Luckily, Jenna Wrieden, assistant coach at Hoka Northern Arizona (NAZ) Elite, created a plan that suited my running skill level, age and physical limitations, incorporating things I wouldn’t have thought of myself, such as strength training, run-walk intervals and low-intensity cardio workouts.

It’s also vital to have the right running apparel and gear. After all, if you wear the wrong pair of shorts, you might be uncomfortable and distracted during your run, and that’s the best-case scenario. Get the wrong type of shoes and your feet could be aching by mile two. And where are you supposed to store your water bottle and your phone?

As Sarah Clark, senior director of apparel and accessories at Tracksmith, said, “You can run in just about anything, but you will probably regret it if what you’re wearing is not comfortable, if it causes chafing or if it bags out with sweat.”

Before training started, I conducted my research and consulted experts on which running essentials to try, including marathon training shoes, running apparel, recovery devices and strength workout tools.

Finally, training for a half-marathon is also a test of your mental and emotional strength, so I found that having a support system is vital. Wrieden was also instrumental in making running an accessible experience by helping me realize that everything I was going through, including vivid dreams about a disastrous race day, was shared even by experienced runners. I also trained with a friend who was herself a beginner runner.

Once I had those elements down pat — my training plan, my support and my gear — I was off to the races.

My half-marathon training

Month 1: From 0 to 2 miles

It turns out that doing hot yoga a few times a week and hiking at least once a week won’t make you a decent beginner runner. Month one was plagued by difficult quarter-mile runs and sore legs and knees, which had me groaning and slow side-stepping on stairs, with lots of heavy breathing.

But I was committed, and there was no choice but to keep going. “Right foot. Left foot. Repeat,” as my coach told me.

Your running success doesn’t just hinge on persistence, however. Every experienced runner and every beginner running guide told me that running at a comfortable, conversational pace is the best way to get started. Jogging at a 13- to 14-minute pace during my first few weeks miraculously made running somewhat enjoyable. Don’t get me wrong, there was still a lot of embarrassing hard breathing. But after a couple of weeks, I was no longer constantly on the verge of passing out from lack of oxygen.

I also learned early that proper recovery is vital for getting better at running. According to Wrieden, who has almost 17 years of experience working with NCAA and professional athletes, “recovery is one of the most undervalued tools for an athlete’s success. Distance running is this long, slow process of watching yourself improve … and recovery is such a huge part of that.”

That’s especially true if you’re one of the many over-40 adults who have some sort of knee problem. My own knee issues started when I was in my 30s, so I knew before I started this journey that I wasn’t going to be able to run pain-free.

Madison Yerke, one of CNN Underscored’s resident marathoners, suggested I use recovery tools like the Technogym Roller to help reduce post-run knee aches and muscle soreness, but it was the Hyperice X 2 Knee that proved to be a game changer for me. This hot/cold compression device works so well at alleviating knee soreness and pain that I use it after every run.

To give my feet some much-needed post-run pampering, I wore recovery sandals such as the Hoka Ora 3 Recovery Slides, and to effectively knead all those calf, hamstring, quad and glute muscles, I relied on the Rally Orbital Massager. Meanwhile, the Hyperice Hypervolt Go 3 proved very useful when post-run aches and soreness were keeping me awake at night.

Hyperice X 2 Knee Hot/Cold Compression Cuff

This hot/cold compression device from Hyperice is incredible for post-run knee weakness and pain. Since it’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of tool, I can use it while doing other things like taking a nap or working.

$449 at Amazon

$449 at Hyperice

Hyperice Hypervolt Go 3

Though it’s designed for travel and on-the-go use, I love using this compact massage gun when I’m lying in bed and achy from a recent run. Its small and lightweight design is easy to use when I’m on my back, but its strong massaging power ensures instantaneous relief to help me fall asleep.

$149 at Hyperice

$149 at REI

$149 at Nordstrom

Rally Orbital Massager

I’ve used my share of massage guns over the years, and in my opinion, this model is the only one that truly delivers. Instead of using a back-and-forth punching motion, it utilizes rapid circular rotations, which makes it more effective at kneading. I also love using it to knead those stress knots on my shoulders.

$499 at Amazon

$499 at Rally

TechnoGym Roller

For many people, post-run knee pain can be due to quadricep and IT band tightness. I found that rolling out those muscles out using my Technogym Roller helps with the pain so I can run the next day without issue.

$100 at TechnoGym

Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3

When I’m not running or out on the town, these recovery slides are all I wear. They’re supportive and provide a lot of cushion so my hard-working feet get some respite.

$60 at REI

$60 at Hoka

$60 at Nordstrom

Related article Massage guns aid in recovery. I tested a $200 Therabody tool against one that’s half the price

Recovery devices are only a small part of the equation, however. The most basic and vital tools for recovery aren’t things you can purchase at the running store, according to Wrieden. Here’s what else you need to prioritize:

Of course, the right shoes matter too, and it took me several uncomfortable runs to find them. When it comes to marathon training and race day shoes, it really depends on the individual runner and their needs, although it’s good practice to have a few pairs in rotation to avoid overuse injury.

Related article The best running shoes for beginners in 2025, tried and tested

I tried several highly lauded road running shoes like the Hoka Arahi 8, Asics Gel-Kayano 32, Tracksmith Eliot Runner and the Nike Pegasus 41, and none of them provided enough support and cushioning to keep my heel pain at bay. In the end, I settled on three that truly felt comfortable for training: the Hoka Bondi 9 for every day, the Salomon Aero Glide 4 Grvl for trail running and the Hoka Mach X 3 for speed work.

Hoka Bondi 9

Hoka Women’s Bondi 9 Running Shoes

Some of my go-to everyday running shoes, the Bondi 9 boast higher stacks and a more premium foam compound for easy runs. They’re among the most cushioned and supportive running shoes I’ve tested.

Read our review

$175 at REI

$175 at Nordstrom

$175 at Hoka

Hoka Men’s Bondi 9 Running Shoes

Their good arch support and top-notch shock absorption make these a fantastic everyday running shoes for the road. Their grip may not be good for dirt trails, but it’s more than enough for concrete.

Read our review

$175 at REI

$175 at Foot Locker

$175 at Hoka

Salomon Aero Glide 4 Grvl

Salomon Women’s Aero Glide 4 Grvl Trail Running Shoes

These trail runners from Salomon were not only comfortable out of the box but also offered plenty of support, shock absorption and truly impressive traction that kept me upright on the driest loose dirt trails.

$160 at REI

$160 at Salomon

Salomon Men’s Aero Glide 4 Grvl Trail Running Shoes

Whether you’re running on concrete or dirt trails, these trail running shoes will keep you from slipping on uphills and downhills, thanks to their incredible grip. They’re also one of the most comfortable running shoes I’ve ever tested.

$160 at REI

$160 at Salomon

Hoka Mach X 3

Hoka Women’s Mach X 3 Running Shoes

For me, the Hoka Mach X 3 are the perfect running shoes. Designed for speed work, they will naturally make you run faster, regardless of your skill level. Plus, they provide great cushioning and support, keeping your feet comfortable when they’re working hard.

$190 at Hoka

$190 at REI

$190 at Dick’s Sporting Goods

Hoka Men’s Mach X 3 Running Shoes

If you’re not ready for super shoes, then these speedy ones from Hoka are the next best thing. Great for race day for beginner runners, they’ll help you naturally run faster, even if you haven’t mastered the technical aspects of running yet.

$190 at Hoka

$190 at REI

$190 at Zappos

That was just the beginning of my running footwear saga, however. It took me about four weeks to be able to run for 2 miles straight without pausing, but that achievement was somewhat marred by another foot issue: toe tingling.

Roughly between the 1.5- and 2-mile marks, my toes would start to tingle, which would force me to pause to walk it off. Walking for three to five minutes usually made the tingling subside, but because it happened on every single run, I was concerned.

I consulted Dr. Miguel Cunha, board-certified podiatric surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City, on the issue, and he shared some possible reasons why someone might experience toe tingling during a run.

It definitely wasn’t a sizing issue for me, as I always go one size up when it comes to my active footwear. However, I did try experimenting with the laces as well as using performance socks such as the Comrad Compression Socks, the 2XU Vectr Light Cushion No-Show Compression Socks and the Darn Tough Run No-Show Tab Ultralightweight Socks, which did minimize the tingling.

2XU Vectr Light Cushion No-Show Compression Socks

I love these 2XU compression socks because they offer enough compression to actually keep my feet feeling supported while still providing plenty of space around my toes.

$18 at 2XU

$20 at Amazon

Comrad Ankle Compression Socks

I use my Comrad compression socks so often that I have to soak them in bleach to get back their original color. These socks are very supportive and comfortable, and they stay in place throughout a run.

$20 at Comrad Socks

Darn Tough No-Show Tab Ultralightweight Socks

Darn Tough Women’s Run No-Show Tab Ultralightweight Socks

I love my Darn Tough hiking socks, but did you know the brand also makes running socks? They’re comfortable, of course, but they’re also performance socks that stay put.

$19 at Amazon

$19 at REI

Darn Tough Men’s Run No-Show Tab Ultralightweight Socks

The mild compression from these socks give you good stability without that tight pressure you feel when wearing compression socks. If you don’t like compression socks, these are perfect.

$19 at Darn Tough

$19 at REI

Finding the right shoes (and socks), maintaining a consistent recovery routine and paying attention to my pacing helped me become a much better runner over time. But there’s a huge difference between running two miles and making it to 13 miles in just three hours and 30 minutes (the Santa Barbara Half time limit), and I still had a long journey ahead.

Month 2: Hitting a wall is normal

After a month, I started to see tangible improvements, but training for a half-marathon, I’ve found, isn’t necessarily a linear and upward progression. Once I hit that 2-mile running goal, I felt unstoppable, and my upcoming 13-mile race didn’t feel so daunting. After all, if I could go from a quarter of a mile to a 5K run in just a few weeks at age 42, I assumed the rest would fall into place.

And then I hit a wall.

After meeting my 4-mile goal, my progression completely stopped. There were days where I would run for 2 miles and then it’d feel like running another was impossible. Though I know runners, including professional athletes, have gone through the same thing, it was still disheartening.

For several weeks, I settled for just running for 4 miles two to three times a week and focusing on making sure my running gear was just right.

“One of the things to be sure of is that you’ve nailed your routine by race day,” Clark said. “There’s nothing worse than seeing your race results not be where you wanted them or to have your time affected by not having your kit — your tank, your bra, your shoes, your socks — nailed down.”

She recommended using longer runs during training to try out different gear, clothing and even nutrition to get your kit dialed in before race day. Seeing as my longer runs during this time were at 4 miles, I had to make do, and anyway, I still wanted to be comfortable during training. As a beginner runner at 42, I already had enough uncomfortable things to deal with: my breathing, my knees, just my overall physical strength level. I’m also a woman runner, and as Clark said, “We have whole articles of clothing that [men] don’t bother with.”

I didn’t want to be distracted by an unsupportive bra, a pair of running shorts that constantly bunched up at the crotch or a water bottle fatiguing my hand and wrist. I needed to use all my brain energy to focus on my actual progress.

After testing gear from different running brands, I found the Hoka Elaro Crop Bra, Bandit Stamina Scoop-Neck Run Bra, Ciele TRN Tank Bra and the Bandit Stamina-V Lyra Race Crop to be the most supportive without being constricting.

Related article The best sports bras of 2026, tested by editors

Hoka Elaro Crop Bra

This is my favorite running bra by far. I love that it’s supportive but never too tight, and the fact that it has a tank top layer makes it very flattering.

From $40 at Hoka

$56 at Fleetfeet

Bandit Stamina Scoop-Neck Run Bra

Supportive, yes. Comfortable, absolutely. But the back pocket is what I love most about this bra and what Bandit is known for. Hands-free running is the best.

$68 at Bandit

Ciele TRN Tank Bra

Given its similar design to the Hoka Elaro, it’s no surprise that I also loved this tank bra from Ciele. I prefer to have a little more coverage when I’m running, and the scoop bottom of this bra gives me exactly that.

$85 at Ciele

Bandit Stamina-V Lyra Race Crop

I cannot go on long runs without energy gels so I appreciate the multiple pockets on this race crop from Bandit for storage. What I love most, though, are the mesh areas that welcome airflow, especially on warmer days.

$88 at Bandit

$88 at Marathon Sports

Related article We ran hundreds of miles to find the best running shorts for women. There’s just one pair we recommend to all runners

For running shorts that are breathable, don’t ride up as much and come with plenty of strategically placed pockets, I found the Lululemon 3-Inch Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Short, Outdoor Research Women’s 4-Inch Swift Lite Shorts and the Vuori 6-Inch AllTheForm Shorts to be the best.

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I also decided to invest in a running belt to use on my short runs for things like energy gels and my keys. I tested a couple of them from Hoka and FlipBelt, but I found myself reaching for my SPIbelt Monochromatic Pro again and again because it was the easiest to adjust and tended to stay put.

Related article The best running belts in 2026, tried and tested

I also used this time to hone my mobility and strength training routines. Luckily, my coach was on top of assigning me strength exercises very early on, but I also needed to buy the right tools so I could do them at home on days when I couldn’t make it to the gym. Apart from some old dumbbells, I used the Technogym Loop Bands and the GoRuck Sand Medicine Ball, which I simply filled up with sand from the beach.

Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Shorts

I now understand why Lululemon has such a cult following. Its running gear for women, specifically, is so well-designed. I love these shorts because they’re not too tight around the waist, making them great for those with a curvier physique.

$78 From $29 at Lululemon

Outdoor Research Women’s 4-Inch Swift Lite Shorts

Their lightweight and quick-drying material makes these shorts perfect for warm weather half-marathon training. I also love the length: At 4 inches, they’re long enough for a flattering look on my petite frame.

$80 at Nordstrom

$80 at Outdoor Research

$80 at Backcountry

Vuori 6-Inch AllTheForm Shorts

On days when I want a little more coverage or am worried about chafing, these long bike shorts are very comfortable and soft. They’re not as flattering on petite frames, but pair well with a longer running shirt. They’re also great for strength-training days.

$68 at Vuori

$78 at REI

Technogym Loop Bands

Strength workouts are an absolute must when you’re training for a half-marathon, and you’ll need some resistance bands for that. I used this pack from Technogym. They’re nothing fancy, but they get the job done.

$50 at Technogym

Goruck Sand Medicine Ball

I’m really bad at staying consistent with my workouts when I’m traveling, but this travel-friendly medicine ball made sure I still did my strength training even when I was out of town. Just fill it up with sand when you want to use it, then empty it for your travels.

From $60 at Goruck

SPIbelt Running Belt

If you hate when your running shorts are weighed down by your phone and keys, then you need this SPIbelt running belt. It’s a no-bounce belt, which makes it perfect for running; its straps are easily adjustable, and it doesn’t move. For short runs, you can easily clip on a SPI H2O Companion water bottle.

$27 at Walmart

$30 at Amazon

$35 at SPIbelt

By the end of my second month of training, all those consistent 4-mile runs, along with comfortable running clothes and strength training, paid off.

Month 3: Breaking down the wall

Before my third month rolled around, I was already running at a faster pace than my initial 13-minute mile. More importantly, I felt ready to increase my mileage. This was a good thing, since my coach instructed me to start running for 5 miles, albeit mostly using the run-walk method, which involves a combination of running and walking. It wasn’t easy going that literal extra mile, but I did the workouts and was feeling great.

When my coach finally had me doing 6-mile runs, I felt powerful, but then came a whole new level of leg soreness. I literally could not sleep the night after my first 6-mile run, no matter how much Bengay I slathered all over my body.

After a couple of hours of tossing and turning, I scrambled out of bed and put on the 2XU Refresh Recovery Compression Tights. According to Andrew Turner, vice president of product and merchandise at 2XU, these graduated compression tights are designed to apply “gentle pressure to the muscles [to encourage] blood return to the heart, helping flush out metabolic waste products like lactate and carbon dioxide, as well as [reduce] fluid build up by preventing excess pooling in the lower limbs [for] faster tissue repair and reduced heaviness or fatigue.”

Related article The best running tights for all types of weather, including chilly winter days

That did the trick. I passed out soon after putting them on, and now, whenever I increase my mileage, I wear these tights to help with my circulation and speed up my recovery. They work like a charm every time.

Then came the heat — literally. Month three was September, the hottest month in Los Angeles, so I had to reschedule my runs to an hour before sunset and invest in running shirts to protect my shoulders and upper arms.

Testing gear this time around wasn’t as much of a trial-and-error process, though. Immediately, I found the flattering Lululemon Swiftly Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt 2.0 and the very affordable and breathable 2XU Aero Tee to be the most comfortable for me. On chilly days, I found the running bra and light jacket or windbreaker combo perfect, since I run hot. My favorite of the latter was the lightweight Salomon Sense Aero Hybrid Cropped Pullover.

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2XU Refresh Recovery Compression Tights

2XU Women’s Refresh Recovery Compression Tights

These graduated compression tights from 2XU also help me manage my sore muscles post-run and on rest days. More importantly, they promote better blood circulation for faster healing.

$100 at Amazon

$100 at 2XU

2XU Men’s Refresh Recovery Compression Tights

Great for male runners too, these compression tights are the perfect rest-day wear and passive recovery tool that will ease your sore muscles.

$100 at Amazon

$100 at 2XU

Lululemon Swiftly Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt 2.0 Waist Length

Yes, I’m a Lululemon convert now. I usually hate wearing tech shirts, but this one from the brand is very comfortable and very flattering. It’s also breathable, making it terrific for hot day runs.

$68 at Lululemon

2XU Aero Tee

I don’t mind the looser fit on this 2XU shirt. It still stays put, even when I’m working harder, and it’s breathable, lightweight and sweat-wicking — just the kind of running shirt you need for warmer days.

$35 From $11 at 2XU

Salomon Women’s Sense Aero Hybrid Cropped Pullover

Perfect for chilly days, this lightweight pullover-slash-windbreaker is thick enough to provide warmth and thin enough that it’s easy to carry when it’s warmer. It’s also easy to take off without interrupting your run.

$110 $82 at Backcountry

$110 From $82 at REI

$110 $83 at Salomon

Since I was now doing longer runs, I needed lightweight water bottles to help me stay hydrated and a running vest to carry them in, so I didn’t look like a total lunatic sloshing around with two water bottles in my hands.

That’s when I got the amazing Lululemon Fast and Free Trail Running Vest, which feels very soft and comfortable, comes with plenty of pockets and includes two Janji 500-milliliter SoftFlasks — a combo that prevented me from overheating and dehydrating during my long September runs. If you hate the thought of a vest, the Bandit Stamina 7-Pocket Nova Crop is a great alternative. It’s as supportive as a bra and comes with seven pockets for all your running accessories.

Related article The best running vests for staying warm during 2026, tried and tested

I know most experienced runners don’t carry much water even during an actual race, but I’m 42 and a novice runner, and I still need a lot of hydration even on my regular runs.

Lululemon Fast and Free Trail Running Vest

Lululemon Women’s Fast and Free Trail Running Vest

This vest has probably saved me from passing out during my long runs. It allows me to store two 500-milliliter soft water flasks and several energy gel packs, so I can stay well hydrated and energized during runs. Plus, it’s super comfortable and flattering.

$148 at Lululemon

Lululemon Men’s Fast and Free Trail Running Vest

The abundance of pockets on this running vest makes it an ideal race-day wear for beginners who need a lot of water and gels to keep moving. The fact that it’s comfortable and doesn’t get in the way is almost a bonus.

$148 at Lululemon

Janji 500mL SoftFlasks

I carry one or two of these soft flasks from Janji when I run, so I can stow them in my vest and not be weighed down by bottles. They’re easy to drink from as well, and the lock switch ensures that I’m not spilling precious water.

$24 at Janji

Bandit Stamina 7-Pocket Nova Crop Top

If a vest seems like overkill, then this very supportive crop top-slash-bra from Bandit is the next best thing. It’s super comfortable and comes with seven pockets, perfect for stowing your phone and energy gels.

$82 at Bandit

Month 4: A 5K race and beyond

I kicked off my fourth month by running the Aquarium of the Pacific 5K Race in Long Beach, California, on a whim, just so I could experience the thrill of race day (and to get that adorable starfish-adorned medal).

It was my first official race, so my expectations were low, but it did give me a good preview of what the half-marathon would feel like and taught me some valuable lessons to take with me.

Apparently, being surrounded by fast runners can make an inexperienced runner subconsciously run faster, and that’s exactly what happened to me. I started at a nine-minute pace, which was too fast for me, and while I eventually managed to get down to 11 minutes per mile, it still proved tricky to slow down.

That kind of thing can quickly drain a novice’s energy, and I knew that if I was going to finish the half-marathon, I needed to learn to pace myself instead of succumbing to a pack mentality.

In the end, though, I set three personal records: my fastest mile, my fastest 2 miles and my fastest 5K. I also met several wonderful people, a couple of whom invited me to join them on runs.

Related article The best running watches of 2026, tried and tested

And thanks to that race, I knew exactly what I needed to focus on in my last month of training: learning to slow down so I could run at my comfortable pace to make it to the finish line before the time limit. My Garmin Forerunner 265 has been incredibly helpful in that respect. The running smartwatch helped me make it through my first 8 miles and first 10 miles that month, which I also used to dial in my race day kit. I’m not going to lie: It was tough, and I had to pack some Gu Energy Gels and Skratch Labs Hydration Packets to make it to the end, as well as take walking breaks.

Still, I didn’t do as badly as I thought I would, averaging at a little under 13 minutes a mile, not to mention setting a couple of new PRs in the process, which always feels good even when you’re just training or going through your exercise routine. My progress was tangible, even though there were still some small setbacks, and it motivated me to keep going.

Garmin Forerunner 265 Running Smartwatch

I love how easy the Garmin Forerunner 265 is to use. The interface helped me focus on my pace, distance and planned runs. The high-quality display was easy to see even in full daylight too.

$440 at Amazon

$450 at Garmin

$450 at Best Buy

Gu Energy Gels, 24-Count

These energy gels are a solid source of carbs and sugar to help runners and hikers avoid energy crashes. They’re a bit of an acquired taste because they’re very thick and very sweet, but they come in a variety of flavors and drinking water after you gulp down a pack helps.

$49 at Amazon

$49 at Walmart

Skratch Labs Hydration Packets, 20-Pack

You absolutely need to replenish those electrolytes for energy and recovery, and these hydration packets from Skratch Labs are the quickest way to do it. They taste great too.

$36 at Amazon

$36 at REI

My results

By taper week (the week before the race where you cut your training volume to allow your body to recover and get primed for race day), I was feeling confident. My legs and glutes still felt perpetually sore, but I knew my body could handle a 13.1-mile run.

I also had my running gear kit and nutrition packs dialed in. I was hoping to run in the Hoka Rocket X 3 (new at the time), but I realized during training that my novice skills were simply not ready for carbon-plated shoes that are built to catapult quicker runners forward. In any case, I loved running in my Mach X 3 anyway, so that rounded out my half-marathon race-day checklist, along with the Hoka Elaro 5-inch Bike Shorts, which kept chafing at bay, and the Hoka Trail Run Vest 10L, which let me store my nutrition packs, a pack of Goodwipes Actually Flushable Wipes for freshening up and going to the bathroom during the race, a Bodyglide Anti-Chafe Balm and water bottles.

Hoka Elaro 5-Inch Bike Shorts

This pair of bike shorts from Hoka are excellent race-day shorts for runners who are worried about chafing. They hug thighs and prevent any skin from rubbing against each other so that no irritation occurs. They’re also very breathable and stay put exceedingly well.

$54 From $37 at Hoka

$54 at Fleetfeet

Hoka Trail Run Vest 10L

With plenty of spacious, secure pockets to store all your race-day necessities, this large-capacity, 10-liter trail vest is a must for beginner long-distance runners who like to bring snacks, hydration and safety gear with them. It’s plenty breathable on balmy days too.

$220 at Hoka

Goodwipes Actually Flushable Wipes, 4-Pack

Even seaside races can be a dusty affair, so having a pack of flushable wipes like these from Goodwipes is handy when you need to wipe off your hands, glasses or other pieces of gear. Plus, they’re useful for bathroom stops during the race (you’d be surprised how fast port-a-potties run out of toilet paper during these things).

$22 at Amazon

$13 at Walmart

$20 at Goodwipes

Bodyglide Anti-Chafe and Moisturizing Balm

Chafing hurts a lot more than you’d think, especially when you’re only a few miles into a long run. This Bodyglide anti-chafing balm is very effective at keeping skin free from irritation, and it comes in a travel-friendly container.

From $9 at Amazon

$9 at REI

I also had a game plan. Pace myself at 13 minutes per mile, consume energy gels every 30 minutes, take brisk-walk breaks whenever I need them and hopefully finish within three hours.

I had a mini freak-out the night before the race, but my awesome coach calmed me down and reminded me that I went from barely managing a half-mile run to running 10 miles in only four months. What’s 3 more miles?

Still, I didn’t sleep a wink that night. Nerves, I guess. So, I decided to relinquish any control I was trying to hold on to, let go of the pressure I was putting on myself and just enjoy the experience.

And that’s exactly what I did. I finished the Santa Barbara Half-Marathon in two hours and 48 minutes — 12 minutes faster than my goal time — and set new PRs for my fastest mile, my fastest 10K, my fastest 10 miles and more.

It was the best feeling ever. Not too shabby for a sleep-deprived 42-year-old with a weak core, even weaker knees and virtually zero running experience.

You know how they say it’s about the journey, not the destination? Well, this four-month challenge is truly about the journey. I took on a new adventure, I learned a lot and I’m a lot stronger for it (you should feel my legs!).

People told me that if I started running, I’d catch the bug and never stop. Well, I ran (and finished) Tipster’s LA Food Run about a year later, a trail half-marathon with so many steep elevation gains that I almost gave up. So I guess there’s some truth to that.

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For this article, CNN Underscored testing writer Michelle Rae Uy, who has years of experience covering fitness and wellness product reviews, trained for three months as a beginner runner before running her first half-marathon. She went on to run her second half-marathon not even a year later. This is her first time writing a running piece, but it likely won’t be the last.