Bri Piepenbrok

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5K → HALF

From "I Could Never" to 13.1

12-Weeks To Completing Your First Half Marathon!

Running your first half marathon can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. This 12-week beginner-friendly playbook is built for athletes who can run a few miles but have never trained for 13.1 before. With just 3 run days and 2 full-body strength sessions each week, you’ll build endurance, strength, and confidence gradually. No extreme mileage, no complicated workouts, just a clear plan that gets you to the start line feeling prepared and proud.
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Train for Your First Half Marathon Without Injury!

You can run a 5K but, training for a Half Marathon feels overwhelming, risky, or confusing. This 12-week program gives you a clear, realistic path from a solid 5K base to confidently completing your first Half Marathon without running every day, guessing what to do, or breaking down along the way. Instead of generic mileage increases, this plan blends intentional running, functional strength training, and built-in recovery so you can progress safely and sustainably. Designed by a Doctor of Physical Therapy + Performance Coach, this program uses the same framework I apply with runners who want to build distance without setbacks. ⸻ WHO THIS IS FOR: ✔ You can comfortably run a 5K ✔ You’re training for your first Half Marathon ✔ You want a structured plan that fits real life ✔ You care about staying healthy as much as finishing ✖ Not for PR chasers or high-mileage runners ✖ Not a run-only plan ⸻ WEEKLY STRUCTURE (5 DAYS/WEEK) 🏃‍♀️ 3 Run Days • Easy aerobic run • Quality run (tempo or intervals) • Long run progression 💪 2 Strength Days Functional, runner-specific strength: • Squats, hinges, lunges • Carries and sled work 😴 2 Rest / Recovery Days ⸻ BY THE END OF 12 WEEKS YOU WILL:
  • Confidently complete a Half Marathon
  • Feel stronger as mileage increases
  • Reduce injury risk as training progresses
  • Know how to balance running and strength long-term
Goal:
Athletic Performance
Running, Functional
12 weeks program 5 days/week 45-60 mins
Level:
Beginner
Goal:
Athletic Performance
Running, Functional
12 weeks program 5 days/week 45-60 mins
Level:
Beginner

Train Confidently for Your First Half Marathon in 12 Weeks

Full Body Strength A
Full Body Strength A
5.0
Easy Run
Easy Run
5.0
Full Body Strength B
Full Body Strength B
5.0
Easy Run
Easy Run
5.0
Long Run
Long Run
5.0
I had no idea where to start when I signed up for my first half, this program made it so simple and I finished!!!
Bex
Clear, strightforward, focused workouts that made my workouts a no-brainer and helped me cross the finish line confidently!
Lisa
Literally so perfect for beginners. Highly recommend!
Amber
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About Bri Piepenbrok

Physical Therapist + Performance Coach

Hi, I’m Bri, a physical therapist, running analysis certified coach, marathoner, Ironman 70.3 finisher, and the founder of PT BY BRI. I created this playbook for athletes who want to move past rehab and into strong, confident performance. After seeing the gap in the traditional healthcare system between “being cleared” and truly performing, I set out to bridge rehab and performance in a way that actually supports real training. My work blends rehab principles with strength and running-specific training so you can move well, train hard, and trust your body again—without fear of re-injury.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be an experienced runner to follow this plan?
No. This program is designed for beginners who can run a few miles but have never trained for a half marathon. Everything builds gradually with manageable mileage and clear structure.
How many days per week do I need to train?
Five days per week total: 3 run days and 2 full-body strength days. The schedule is balanced to support recovery and fit into real life.
What if I’m not very strong or new to lifting?
That’s completely fine. The strength workouts are beginner-friendly, scalable, and focused on functional movements to support your running—not exhaust you.
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