For those who are just starting out in marathons, they may want to start out easy. There is always time to step it up a notch when a person becomes comfortable with the easier ones.
Half Marathon
For those looking for an easy marathon, a good choice would be a half marathon. This is an event that is usually comprised of a length of 13 miles. However, in some cases, the distance may be longer or shorter. While this may seem like a lot, it is only half the distance of a standard marathon. So, as such, it falls into the classification of being easy. The course that is run for the half marathon is usually the same as those used for full marathons, and quite often these two categories of marathons are run on the same day. Using online tools such as zwift to train is becoming very popular.
Half Marathons in New Zealand
In New Zealand quite often the length of the half marathon is a 21.1 KM distance. These events are organized throughout various parts of New Zealand.
Auckland Half Marathon Series
One of the exciting aspects about the half marathon events in Auckland is that there are several opportunities to participate in these types of half marathons.
Mizuno Auckland Half Marathon Series
This is comprised of five half marathon races. These take place in five different locations. Which means participants get to experience different runs each time. It spans over a period of eight months starting in September and ending in April.
There are options for those who don’t want to run the 21km distance. Such as the classic series with is a 10km distance and for the Coatesville region, it is 8Km.
The Ultimate Goal
For those who really want to push themselves, they can set themselves up for the Grand Slam Medal. This requires participants to complete all five events in the 21Km half marathon during one season.
Mizuno Waterfront Half Marathon
For those who are going to be in Auckland in April 2020, they have an opportunity to join in this half marathon event. It is the third annual event of its kind. A huge turnout of about 5,000 participants is expected. For those who are not quite ready for this marathon, they can enter the 10K classic. Or participate in the Fun Run & Walk, which is 5K. For the kids, there is the Kids Dash of 2K.
Just Outside Auckland
For those who would like a course for a half marathon that is just outside of the city then they will want to check out the Omaha Half Marathon. It takes place at the Rahui Te Kiri Reserve. This is considered an easy marathon and one that takes place in a beautiful setting. This too offers all of the distance options as that which takes place at the Mizuno Waterfront.
There is no shame in just deciding to participate in any one of the half marathon series when one is first starting out in this type of event. There is always next year when one can extend their efforts. Then again, with the events being spaced out, one can always recover from one marathon before participating in the next one.
What is important is the participation. It is nice to finish, but for those that are really new to marathons, it can take several events before one is able to complete a course.