Brent Alexander

serving up perspective //

smashing the doubt

Tag: Half-Marathon Training

Follow my half-marathon training journey! Gain insights on endurance, strategy, and mindset as I prepare for race day and achieve new running goals.

Wilmington Historic Half: The Same Streets, A New Stride

This time last year, I was standing in Wilmington having just finished my first 10K. It felt big then. It felt like something to hold on to.

A year later, I came back and ran those same streets again—but this time I followed the course all the way to 13.1.

When I started this year, the goal was simple: run a half marathon. Somehow, it turned into two. Myrtle Beach in March was my first, and I crossed that finish line at a 2:19—proud to have done the thing. Wilmington in December told a very different story. I finished in 1:55–and I felt like I completely different runner.

A 25-minute difference doesn’t come from luck. It comes from showing up consistently and learning to trust the process instead of fighting it. Somewhere along the way, I stopped forcing the pace and started flowing with it. My stride feels natural now. It shows in my cardio fitness and vO2 max.

I’m not the same runner I was a year ago. And that’s the part that matters most. Progress doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it just waits patiently for you to come back and show up stronger, steadier, and ready.

December 19, 2025
14 Minutes of Proof That Consistency Changes Everything

Running the Thanksgiving Turkey Day Run in Downtown Greenville has quickly become one of my favorite holiday rituals. While most people ease into the morning with warm coffee and the Macy’s parade, more than 8,000 runners gather for the annual Trees Upstate Turkey Day Run, lining up shoulder to shoulder, shaking off the cold, and buzzing with that “let’s do this” race-day energy.

For years, this race was something I did purely for fun, with no real training or expectations. I’d show up and run/walk the 5K course (not the longer 8K route) and call it a morning.

But this year was different.

This year, I came with a goal.

It’s officially been one year since I decided to train as a competitive runner—one year since I stopped winging it and started building real consistency. And on Thanksgiving morning, those steady miles and discipline all showed up in one massive way:

A new PR—14 minutes faster than last year.
🏁 40:15 8K

Running in Gratitude

If Thanksgiving has a theme, it’s gratitude. And this year, that theme felt especially real for me.

As I crossed the finish line and caught my breath, I felt gratitude move through me in a way I wasn’t expecting.

I’m grateful for strong legs that have carried me through every mile of training.

I’m grateful for a calm, grounded mind that now works with me instead of against me.

I’m grateful for the clarity and peace that running continues to create in my life—mile by mile, week by week.

This sport has become more than exercise. It’s become a space where I build the version of me I want to bring into the rest of my life.

This PR Isn’t the Finish Line

A personal record feels amazing—but it’s not the end of anything. If anything, it’s just another check-in point along the journey.

I’m stronger than I was last year. More confident and more capable. And I have more belief than I ever had before.

But I’m also nowhere near my ceiling.

With my half-marathon coming up in December in Wilmington, NC, I’m already setting my sights on another PR. It’s another challenge to see what a year of commitment can turn into.

But before all that, I’m letting myself pause for a moment to acknowledge the progress and honor the work I’ve put in. And to remind myself that the path I’m on is the right one.

Same holiday.

Same course.

Completely different runner.

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December 5, 2025
My First Half Marathon: More Than Just A Race

No one ever told me that doing hard things could coexist with so much joy.

A couple of weeks ago I ran my first half marathon in Myrtle Beach. With it being my first ever half, I came into race weekend expecting it to fully suck. And honestly, I was ready to embrace it. I was prepared to ride the wave and push through the pain, knowing it was part of the process.

But then something surprising happened. Just past the halfway point, as I was steadily pacing with the 2:30 group, I felt good. Not just “hanging in there” good, but genuinely strong, present, and capable. And in that moment, it hit me—the wave had already been ridden. The past 30 days of 100 miles, plus the 60+ miles in January, that was the real work. That was the true test. The day-in, day-out, feet-on-the-ground consistency, even when I didn’t feel like it, was so much harder than my 2:19 finish in MB.

That realization changed everything for me.

The Journey to Race Day

Training for a half marathon is not just about running 13.1 miles on race day. It’s about every single run leading up to it. It’s about lacing up your shoes when your legs are tired. It’s about getting out there in the cold, the rain, or when motivation is at its lowest. The true test wasn’t the race—it was every single run before it. The half marathon itself? That was the victory lap.

And let me be clear—it wasn’t a walk in the park. Running for over two hours straight is hard. Mile 12 tested me. My mind was filled with questions and doubt, my legs burned, and I wondered if I had enough left in the tank. But then I reminded myself: I had done enough. I had put in the work. I had already won before I even stepped onto that course.

The Finish Line

As I neared the end, I knew I would easily beat my goal. That gave me the push to ramp it up even more. The crowd’s cheers carried me forward, and when I crossed that finish line, it was like a floodgate opened. I broke down in tears. Not out of exhaustion, but from an overwhelming rush of joy.

I had done it.

Not only had I accomplished my longest distance yet, but I had also kept a promise to myself from 60 days ago. And I had done it in a way that filled me with joy. The medal around my neck was a great symbol of achievement, but the real reward? The person I became in the process.

Reflection: It’s All About the Grind

The Myrtle Beach Half Marathon gave me more than just a medal—it gave me perspective. It reminded me that the real victory isn’t in the race itself but in the months of preparation leading up to it. The real win is in the discipline, the grit, and the consistency.

To everyone out there pushing themselves toward a goal—whether it’s running, fitness, or any personal challenge—know this: the reward isn’t just at the finish line. It’s in every step along the way.

Thank you, MB Half. You were too good to me. I do not deserve you. But I’m sure glad I have you.

Special thanks to my wife, Kellie, for the best support I could ever ask for. I wouldn’t be here without you. 🫶

March 14, 2025
My First-Ever 10-Miler

I’ve officially checked off my first-ever 10-mile race, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with how it went! 🎉 This was a race full of new challenges, from the course itself to my personal goals. And yes, it’s a new personal record (PR) for me! 🔔

Race Stats:

⏱️ Time: 1:45:27

🏃‍♂️ Pace: 10:33 per mile

The Course: Hills on Hills on Hills ⛰️

The Green Valley Road Race certainly lived up to its reputation as a challenging course. The entire route felt like one big hill after another, which I have to admit, made me nervous at first. I even drove the course the day before to get a preview—and let’s just say, I might’ve freaked myself out a little bit seeing all those inclines. 😳 But honestly, it helped me prepare mentally and gave me a chance to appreciate the beautiful new scenery on race day. This is a course I would gladly run again!

Race Day Weather Perfection 🌅

The weather on race day couldn’t have been better for running: a crisp 42° at the start with sunny skies, warming up to just over 50° by the finish. This perfect temperature meant I could focus entirely on my running without being distracted by discomfort from either heat or cold.

Focusing on Cadence Over Pace 🥁

As I’ve been learning more about my running form, I decided to focus on improving my cadence rather than pushing for a specific pace. This was a shift in strategy for me, and I’m happy to say it paid off! I was able to maintain a much higher cadence of 163 steps per minute (spm) during the race. Just a few weeks ago, I was struggling to hit 150 spm, which I now realize was mainly due to poor form and over-striding.

To work on that, I decided to play some faster-paced tunes to help me find a rhythm. Shortening my stride and leaning into each step felt so much smoother. My knees were grateful for the change in mechanics—though I can’t lie and say I had no knee pain at all. My runner’s knee from last week was still a bit sore, but it was manageable, and I was able to push through the race without a problem.

Post-Race Recovery: Cold Plunge Magic 🥶

After crossing the finish line, I made sure to take recovery seriously. I treated myself to a quick 3-minute cold plunge in 45° water, and let me tell you: that water was pure magic! 🧊 It was exactly what my body needed to reduce inflammation and soreness, and I felt pretty good afterward—almost like I hadn’t just completed a tough race.

What’s Next: Rest and Recovery

Now, it’s time to rest, recover, and prepare for the next challenge ahead. I’ve got a huge workload this month as I get ready for my upcoming half marathon in March, but I’m feeling motivated and excited to keep pushing forward. It’s all part of the journey!

Thanks for following along, and I’ll keep you updated on my training. Until then, I’ll be focusing on continuing to push my limits and improving with each step. 🏃‍♂️✨

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February 7, 2025
100 Miles For Cancer

A Challenge For A Cause

In February, I’ve decided to run 100 miles—not just for myself, but for something much bigger. As I ramp up my mileage in preparation for my upcoming half marathon on March 1st, I’m partnering with the American Cancer Society in a virtual challenge to support those fighting cancer.

I’m running 100 miles for cancer, and I’d like to share why this means so much to me and why I hope you’ll join me in supporting the cause.

A Journey Beyond the Miles

Running has always been a personal challenge—an opportunity for growth, self-discipline, and pushing through physical and mental boundaries. But in February, my miles will carry a deeper purpose. As I run each step, I will do it in honor of those who have battled and lost, those who are still fighting, and those who have fought and won. This challenge is about more than just endurance—it’s about remembering loved ones and supporting those in the fight against cancer right now.

While my half marathon on March 1st unfortunately won’t count towards my 100-mile challenge (it ends February 28th), it still represents the physical and emotional effort that this month is all about. Every mile run will be for them—those whose strength and courage inspire me to keep pushing, especially when it gets tough.

Honoring the Fighters, Remembering the Lost

Cancer has impacted nearly every one of us in some way. Whether it’s a loved one who has faced the disease, a friend or family member who is still fighting, or someone we’ve lost too soon, the emotional weight of cancer is undeniable. I’ve seen firsthand how cancer takes its toll, but I’ve also witnessed the incredible resilience of those who fight it with all they have.

This month, I’m running for everyone who has battled cancer and for the families who have supported them. Whether you’ve lost someone to this disease, or you know someone currently in the fight, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on those warriors and their strength.

Why 100 Miles?

Running 100 miles in one month is no small feat. But I’ve chosen this challenge because it symbolizes the perseverance and determination needed to overcome cancer. Each mile represents a step toward raising awareness, offering support, and raising funds for critical research that continues to push us closer to a cure.

I believe in the power of community, and that’s why I’m asking for your support. Every donation to my JustGiving page goes toward cancer research and support for those who need it most. Together, we can make a tangible difference.

How You Can Help

I’d be honored if you could join me in this journey in any way you can, whether you donate, share this post, or simply offer words of encouragement as I take on this challenge.

You can follow my progress and contribute to the cause on my fundraising page: Brent Runs for Cancer. Every donation, no matter how small, helps fund cancer research and support services that improve the lives of those fighting this disease.

Thank you for being part of this journey. With your help, we can make these miles count.

Support The Cause

The miles I run this February will be a physical challenge, but the emotional drive behind them is what will keep me going. This is my way of honoring those who have battled cancer, remembering those we’ve lost, and supporting those who are still fighting with every step.

Let’s lace up and run this race together.

January 31, 2025

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