First Half Marathon

Question
Hello,

I am planning on running my first half marathon on May 24th. I am currently in good shape (5ft 11inch, 150lbs, mostly bone and muscle) and run about 20 miles a week (usually about 3-4 miles a day, but fast {usually under 19 min}). I also throw in some fast twitch and interval workouts and play basketball once or twice a week. In addition, I have maintained a weight training regimen of about 45 minutes, 4-5 days a week. I am wondering if you believe that it is ok to maintain this type of regimen in training for my first half marathon? As I have never run a half marathon before, I am a bit lost in finding a training regimen that suites me. I believe that I am in a unique situation as I would like to continue weight lifting as well as some speed for benefits on the basketball court...Please send me any recommendations that you might have.

Answer
Hi Jon
I don't think you would have a problem finishing the 1/2 as long as you just stay at a very comfortable pace from the start gun.I would recommend one thing if you want to make it more comfortable endurance wise,but is not necessary since you want to maintain your present program.This would be once a week until two weeks before the race is gradually increase one long run for time at a easy comfortable pace starting at 45  minutes working up and adding 15min per week which will bring you to 2hr.on the 5th week.This will greatly make it more comfortable in the latter stages of the race.Any other questions just get in touch Jon.

All the best

John