BackRoads Summer Half Marathon Program

Boost Your Endurance, Speed, and Performance this Summer!

The Half Marathon Program is the perfect option for those looking to improve their speed at the the half-marathon distance! The program will be distance specific to help you improve your half marathon time. It is recommended that participants can run 10km for a long run at the time of registering. If you are training towards your first half marathon, we recommend checking out the 10k+ program. The 10k+ program is a great option for anyone training towards their first half.

We are excited to welcome Sheila Henricks and Chris Plested who will teaming up to instruct and lead this program. Both Sheila and Chris have many years of running experience and have ran several races from 10km to marathons and even ultras.

Our half marathon program has a structure that fosters a strong sense of community and support among runners who have a wide range of experience and abilities. At BackRoads, we’re proud to offer an inclusive running environment.

Program Details:

• Start Date: Tuesday, July 8th, 6:00pm at BackRoads
  
• End Date: Saturday October 25th
• Focus: Improving your half-marathon speed
  
• Emphasis on connecting runners of similar paces.

What’s Included:

• 16-Week Training Program:
  2-week base period, 14-week race-specific training (half-marathon)
  

• Possible half marathon race targets include: TCS Toronto Half Marathon October 19th, Hamilton Road to Hope November 2nd, Springbank Road Races September 28th.
  

• Other Race options: Jordan's Run The Runway 5km September 19th, Howling Ghost Trail Races September 27th.

• Group Leader: Sheila Henricks and Chris Plested

• Programming curated by Aaron Hendrikx 

• Weekly structured group sessions with each run having a purpose and a focus on having fun.
  

• Weekly Group Workouts:
  

  • Tuesdays: 6:00 PM - Intervals/Repeats/Hills
    

  • Thursdays: 6:00 PM - Easy social runs (5k-10k)
    

  • Saturdays: 7:00 AM - Long runs (varied distances) 
    

  • NEW optional morning 6am group run (no instructor present, day of the week to be confirmed)

• Private Online Communities:
  

• Facebook Group for important updates, workout tips, events, and program info

• Weekly emails
  

• Exclusive Discounts for Members:
  

• 10% off full boxes or bulk bags of nutrition (until October 31st)
  

• 15% off regular-priced shoes (until October 31st)
  

• 20% off BackRoads branded gear (until October 31st)

• Special Events:
  

• Guest speakers, social gatherings, and an end-of-season celebration

• Advice from Experienced Runners:
  

• A panel discussion including tips on running form, training, and selecting the best seasonal gear, including shoes.
  

Important Notes:

• No refunds after the program begins on July 8th, 2025.
  

• By registering, you acknowledge the potential risks associated with running and agree that BackRoads is not liable for any potential injuries incurred during the program. Participants are responsible for their own safety while running on roads, sidewalks, and paths.