Half Marathon Sub-1:45 Training Plan

Level: Advanced
Duration & Snapshot: 12 Weeks • 5–6 Runs per Week
This 12-week training program, designed by Olympian runner Ilya Tyapkin, guides you through carefully structured workouts that balance endurance, speed, and recovery. By gradually layering easy runs, intervals, tempos, and long runs, you’ll be ready to hit your goal on race day.
✅ Endurance building with long easy runs
✅ Speed development with intervals and strides
✅ Race-specific sharpening with tempos
✅ Recovery weeks and taper to arrive fresh at the start line
Training Plan Breakdown
This Sub-1:45 plan is divided into phases, each with a clear purpose:
- Adapt & Base (Weeks 1–3) → Build routine with easy runs, strides, and first active runs
- Build (Weeks 4–7) → Introduce intervals and tempos, long runs extended up to 18 km
- Recovery (Week 8) → Reduce volume for adaptation and freshness
- Sharpen (Week 9) → Faster tempos and intervals to lock in race rhythm
- Peak (Week 10) → Biggest mileage week, longest long run, hardest workouts
- Taper (Week 11) → Cut back mileage to recharge energy stores
- Race Week (Week 12) → Easy running, short strides, and race execution at sub-1:45 pace
Sample Week Preview
Here’s a look at Week 7 (Build Phase):
| Day | Session | Load |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Rest | — |
| Tuesday | 3 km WU + RD + 6 × 1 km intervals (with jog recovery) + 3 km CD | High |
| Wednesday | 8 km easy run | Low |
| Thursday | 3 km WU + RD + 10 km tempo + 3 km CD | High |
| Friday | Rest | — |
| Saturday | Long run – 18 km easy | High |
| Sunday | Rest | — |
Load = effort level: Low / Medium / High
How Does the Training Plan Work?
The Sub-1:45 program blends different types of running to prepare your body and mind:
- Easy runs → Build aerobic capacity while staying relaxed
- Intervals → Develop speed and efficiency with controlled fast repeats
- Tempo runs → Practice race effort over longer stretches
- Long runs → Strengthen stamina and mental toughness
- Recovery weeks → Allow adaptation and avoid overtraining
By layering these elements, the plan helps you peak at the right time — fit, sharp, and confident.
What Paces Should I Train At?
The PDF plan includes detailed pace ranges for every type of run — easy, intervals, tempos, and race pace. Each session clearly indicates the target effort, so you’ll always know how fast (or easy) to run.
Coach’s Insight
“Breaking 1:45 requires both endurance and rhythm. Respect the easy days, execute the intervals with control, and trust the taper. On race day, steady pacing will carry you across the finish line.”
— Ilya Tyapkin, Olympian Runner & Coach
Helpful Resources for Runners
- Race Day Checklist
- Gear Reviews
- Nutrition for Runners
- Injury Prevention
- Pace Calculator
- Calories Burned Calculator
- VO2 Max Calculator
Final Words
Aiming for a sub-1:45 half-marathon is an exciting challenge that requires dedication, smart training, and patience. This plan gives you the structure and balance to succeed.
Remember:
- Stay consistent — don’t worry about perfection
- Respect recovery — your body adapts on rest days
- Trust the taper — it prepares you to run your best
Your sub-1:45 half-marathon is within reach.




