Half Marathon Essentials: What Every Runner Needs Before, During, and After the Race
Whether you’re lacing up for your first half marathon or your fiftieth, the difference between a great race and a gruelling one often comes down to how well you’ve prepared. We're not just talking about training; we're talking about your half marathon essentials: what you bring to the start line, what you rely on mid-race, and how you treat your body in the hours (and days) after crossing the finish line.
From chafing and cramping to dehydration and post-race recovery, runners face a variety of challenges that can derail even the most seasoned athletes. The good news? A little planning goes a long way. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials for every stage of your half marathon and introduce you to smart tools, including our own Race Essentials Combo, that help you feel and perform your best.
What are Half Marathon essentials?
Half marathon essentials include the gear, nutrition, and recovery tools you need before, during, and after your race, like the anti chafe balm, energy chews, hydration tools, and muscle recovery balm.
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Your Half Marathon Racer Essentials at a Glance:
Pre-Race Essentials: Setting Yourself Up for Success
1. Footwear: The Foundation of a Good Run
A solid pair of running shoes can make or break your race. Look for footwear that matches your gait and provides the right balance of cushioning and responsiveness. Make sure your race-day pair has been broken in with at least 50-75 km of running to avoid blisters and soreness.
Quick Tip: Never wear new shoes on race day. Stick with a tried-and-tested pair.
2. Running Apparel: Comfort Is Performance
Avoid cotton. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics, snug (not tight) fits, and minimal seams to prevent chafing. Compression shorts and sports bras with proper support can help maintain circulation and reduce muscle fatigue.
Pro Move: Test your full race-day outfit on your final long run before the event.
3. Anti-Chafing Strategy: Don’t Let Friction Ruin Your Race
Even elite runners suffer from chafing. Common hotspots include inner thighs, armpits, under sports bras, and even around socks.
Recommended: 1Hour-After’s Anti-Chafe Balm – This non-greasy balm provides long-lasting protection without staining clothes or feeling heavy.
4. Mental Prep: Reducing Pre-Race Stress
Races begin in your mind before they start on the clock. Spend time the night before visualizing the course and anticipating challenges. Prepare your half marathon essentials and gearin advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Night Before Checklist:
- Shoes, socks, and an outfit lay out.
- Race bib attached.
- Anti-chafe balm is packed.
- Watch or tracker charged.
5. Shower Smart: Start Fresh
Use a refreshing body wash to energize yourself in the morning. Choose something with natural antibacterial properties and a cooling effect.
Suggested: 1Hour-After Cooling Menthol Body Wash to reduce inflammation and prep skin against irritation.
In-Race Essentials: Performing at Your Peak
6. Hydration: Avoid the Wall
Dehydration sneaks up fast, leading to fatigue, headaches, and slower recovery. Drink 6-8 ounces every 20 minutes.
Tactic: Alternate water with an electrolyte drink. Consider a hydration belt or handheld bottle if the course has sparse water stations.
7. Fueling Strategy: Keep the Energy Flowing
Your body needs carbs to keep muscles firing. Bring energy gels, chews, or blocks and consume one every 45-60 minutes. Stick to what you’ve trained with to avoid stomach upset.
Popular Picks: GU Energy Gels, Honey Stinger Chews, Clif Bloks
8. Mid-Race Motivation: Mind Over Muscle
Music, mantras, or crowd energy can carry you through tough patches. If allowed, use bone-conduction headphones to stay safe and entertained.
Pro Tip: Set playlists by pace. Slow beats for steady running, fast tracks for the final push.
Need a quick boost? Try these Spotify playlists:
-
180 BPM Half Marathon Running Mix – Ideal for steady pacing with consistent high-energy beats.
- Ultimate Half Marathon Playlist – A crowd-pleaser mix of anthems to power your final miles.
Whether you're cruising or pushing for a PR, the right track can help you lock in your pace and your mindset.
9. Managing Body Temperature
Your body heats up fast. Lightweight layers, a breathable hat, or a cooling towel can keep you focused.
Hack: Wet a bandana with cold water and wear it around your neck to regulate temperature.
Post-Race Essentials: Recovery That Matters
10. Immediate Cool Down
Walk for 10-15 minutes post-race to slowly lower your heart rate. Stretch lightly while your muscles are still warm to prevent tightness.
Essential Item: Don’t forget a towel and fresh dry clothes (especially clean socks) to keep you warm and comfortable post race.
11. Rehydration + Refueling
Your body will crave replenishment. Within 30 minutes, aim for a snack that includes carbs, protein, and electrolytes.
Example: Banana + peanut butter + recovery drink.
12. Muscle Recovery Support
Apply a topical recovery balm to sore spots immediately after your post-race shower.
Our Favourite: 1Hour-After Muscle Recovery Balm infused with menthol and zinc PCA to soothe pain and inflammation. Rub it on your calves, knees, and hamstrings for fast relief.
13. Gentle Cleansing for Skin Health
Training and racing build up sweat, salt, and bacteria. Post-race showers should be clean without stripping the skin.
Recommended Routine:
- Wash with 1Hour-After Cooling Menthol Body Wash.
- Follow with a refuelling magnesium body lotion, moisturizer or cooling gel to soothe irritation and repair dryness.
14. Hair and Scalp Care for Active Runners
Sweat, sun, and heat can damage your scalp and hair. Avoid buildup and dryness with post-run shampooing.
Product Spotlight: 1Hour-After Adaptogen Protein Shampoo + Strengthening Protein Conditioner Duo
- Repairs bonds with pea protein and amino acids.
- Calms scalp irritation with panthenol and argan oil.
- Keeps hair soft, not stripped, after intense workouts.
Build Your Own Race Essentials Kit
Organize your gear into pre-race, in-race, and post-race categories. Here’s a quick half marathon essentials checklist to keep you on track:
Pre-Race:
- Running shoes (broken in and comfortable)
- Anti-chafe balm
- Technical clothing (moisture-wicking)
- Body wash (for a refreshing morning shower)
-
Race bib + safety pins
In-Race:
- Electrolyte drink or tabs
- Energy gels or chews
- Hydration bottle or belt
- Hat and/or sunglasses
-
Headphones (if allowed by race rules)
Post-Race:
- Towel and clean clothes (especially dry socks)
- Muscle recovery balm
- Snacks and hydration drinks
- Gentle body wash and haircare
- Flip-flops or sandals for tired feet
This checklist covers all your half marathon essentials to help your race day go smoothly from start to finish. 🏅
Why Runners Love the 1Hour-After Race Essentials Combo
Our Race Essentials Combo was built by athletes, for athletes. It includes:
- Anti-Chafe Balm: Long-lasting, sweat-resistant protection.
- Cooling Menthol Body Wash: Invigorates and purifies.
- Muscle Recovery Balm: Deep relief for sore legs and joints.
- Protein Strengthening Shampoo + Conditioner: Made for sweaty scalps and dry hair recovery.
With one kit, you can protect your skin, muscles, and confidence from the first step to your next finish line.
"I'm obsessed. I had no chafing during my half and my legs felt way better the day after. Total game-changer."
– Greg M., Toronto Half Marathon Finisher
Final Thoughts: Preparation is Everything
Running a half marathon isn’t just about pace; it’s about planning. By addressing your body’s needs before, during, and after your run, you set yourself up for success, enjoyment, and faster recovery. Whether it’s your first race or your fiftieth, having the right half marathon essentials makes all the difference.
Build your race day system. Pack smart. Recover smarter. And let 1Hour-After help you cross the finish line feeling proud, strong, and ready for the next one.
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