The La Jolla Half Marathon is one of California’s most scenic and challenging races. It runs point-to-point from Del Mar to La Jolla, hugging the coast with stunning ocean views. The course is known for its tough elevation, especially the infamous Torrey Pines Hill around miles 5–6 — a long, steep climb through the Torrey Pines State Reserve.
After the hill, runners tackle rolling terrain before enjoying a fast, net-downhill finish into La Jolla Shores. Expect mild, coastal weather, and beautiful scenery. It’s a great race for strong hill runners or anyone looking for a rewarding challenge.
Quick Facts:
-Length: 8-12 weeks
-Runs per week: 3
-Key/Hard Workouts per week: 1
-Cross-training days per week: 1-2
-Garmin Structured Workout Compatible
-McMillan Calculator paces integrated into all workouts
Plan includes:
-All the best tried and true McMillan half marathon workouts
-Builds fitness in a gradual, yet progressive way to help you stay injury-free
-Goal pace predictor and speed workouts to dial in your goal pace
-Progressive long runs to increase your endurance
-Stamina-boosting half marathon specialty workouts
-Predictor workouts to determine your best pace for race day
-Gradual pace advancement through the training plan to keep you optimally challenged
-Workout swapping – flexibility to move runs around based on your life schedule
-Built-in injury prevention and strength training routines to perform in sync with your running workouts
-Form drills to improve your speed and efficiency
Weekly mileage = 5-15 miles per week (8-24 kilometers per week)*
*based on an average training pace of 12:00 min/mi (7:30 min/km)
NOTE: Each run includes a range of duration/distance and pace so actual mileage may vary
Prep:
-Be able to run 15 minutes on your regular runs and at least 45 minutes on your long runs
Need more weeks? Try one of these plans:
-Base Training Plan: adds up to 8 weeks (Recommended)
-Hill Module: adds up to 6 weeks (opt.)
-Speed Module: adds up to 6 weeks (opt.)
-Half Marathon Training Plan: 8-12 weeks (see above description)
