Preparing for the 2026 Valencia Half Marathon: the fastest half in the world
The Valencia Half Marathon is run at the end of October, on the course where the world record for the distance has fallen several times. Flat, sheltered, temperate, it is the 21 km race for a fast time par excellence. Here is its 10-week preparation with a plan set on your Garmin data.
Last updated: 2026-09-19
The course of records
A loop through central Valencia, under 40 metres of climbing, wide avenues and a finish on the blue carpet of the Ciudad de las Artes. In late October, the start temperature sits around 12 to 18 °C.
On this route the time depends only on you. The plan answers with ever-longer half-pace blocks, up to 12 km continuous.
Ten weeks from mid-August
Late October: a 10-week plan from mid-August. The first three weeks land in full heat: the AI coach reduces paces by 3 to 5% above 28 °C and steers by heart rate.
September and early October carry the threshold and half-pace sessions in the cool of the morning. The weekly review compares planned and completed on Garmin and decides the following week.
Pacing strategy in Valencia
Instruction: first two kilometres at target pace plus 5 seconds, steady target pace afterwards, let go over the last five kilometres. Possible heat is handled by taking water at every aid station, even without thirst.
- Mid-August to early September: volume, heat-adapted paces.
- September to mid-October: threshold, half-pace blocks up to 12 km.
- Last two weeks: taper.
The watch carries the pace range: schedule the plan's "Race" session the day before.
Frequently asked questions
When is the 2026 Valencia Half Marathon?
Late October, traditionally on a Sunday. Check the official date before entering it in your plan.
Why is Valencia so fast?
Flat, wind-sheltered in town, temperate, with a perfect surface and pacers. The world record has fallen there several times.
Do you need a known VMA to start the plan?
Yes: it sets every pace. Without a reliable VMA read on Garmin, the coach starts with a 6-minute test.
Ready to prepare for your half marathon?
Pick your race date and weekly session count: your AI coach builds the plan and pushes it to your Garmin.
Start the half marathon plan