When should I start training for the Great North Run?
Most half marathon plans run 8 to 16 weeks, counting back from race day. Twelve weeks suits a runner who already runs regularly; a first half marathon is easier on a longer block. The last 2 weeks are a taper: less volume, the same rhythm, so you arrive fresh.
What pace does my goal time need?
The table above splits your goal into even pace, the simplest plan for race day. Not sure your goal is realistic? Estimate it from a recent race with the race time predictor, or work out any pace with the pace calculator. Both are planning estimates, not guarantees.
Check the date
Races move. Confirm this year's Great North Run date and entry rules on the race's official website before you build your plan around it.
EverRun builds a periodised plan around your race date and predicts your finish time from the workouts already in Apple Health (Health Connect on Android), with readiness and training load to tell you when to push and when to back off. Free, no subscription.
Get EverRun for iPhone → · Android →
Other half marathon plans
Berlin Half Marathon · Brooklyn Half Marathon · Copenhagen Half Marathon · Lisbon Half Marathon · NYC Half Marathon