Training for the Berkeley Half: July Tips featuring UC Berkeley’s Cal Running Club
Written by Honey Conroy
Are you thinking about running the Berkeley Half Marathon this fall? Are Berkeley Half training tips on your mind? Whether it’s your first race or your fiftieth, July is the perfect time to start building your training base, and you don’t have to do it alone.
We’ve partnered with Cal Running Club (CRC), UC Berkeley’s student-run community of passionate runners, to offer free Saturday group runs and July training tips this summer. These runs are open to all paces and experience levels, making them a welcoming way to stay motivated and prepare for race day.
Here’s why July is the ideal time to start training and how CRC’s officers recommend getting the most out of your summer miles.
Why Start Training in July?
Starting now allows you to develop a solid aerobic base, which is critical for injury prevention and peak performance later in the season.
According to a June 2025 article in Runner’s World, runners who focus on base-building in the early months of training are less likely to experience overuse injuries during peak mileage (source).
July training also offers other benefits:
Heat adaptation improves efficiency. Running in warmer temperatures helps your body acclimate and improves cardiovascular function for cooler race-day conditions (source).
Consistency beats intensity. Easy, regular miles now will prepare you for higher intensity workouts later without overwhelming your body (our hills are manageable, we promise!)
Community keeps you accountable. A 2024 NCBI study finds that joining a group makes it more likely you’ll stick to your plan and enjoy the process (source).
Join Cal Running Club’s Summer Saturday Runs
Every Saturday through July 26, CRC is leading group runs designed to welcome all paces, from walkers to seasoned runners.
What: 2-4 mile fun summer training runs
When: Saturdays through July 26 at 9:30am
Where: Meet at Kroeber fountain
Who: Open to all runner/walker levels in the community
Meet the CRC leaders guiding these runs:
Chloe – CRC President
“Hello! I’m Chloe, a rising junior and President of Cal Running Club at UC Berkeley. I’m excited to be leading runs in partnership with the Berkeley Half, especially since it was my first half-marathon race. I hope to bring more people into the running community by hosting more casual, beginner-friendly runs, and maybe I’ll see some more familiar faces at the starting line in the fall!”
Annika Punz – CRC Officer
“I started running in high school, and am currently focusing on training to race longer distances. I grew up in the area and love running in Berkeley (even the hills!). I can’t wait to do some Berkeley Half training alongside other runners this summer!”
Eric He – CRC Officer
“My name is Eric and I got into running during my first year at UC Berkeley. My favorite part about running is preparing for races with others since it makes the journey to race day feel rewarding. I have run the Berkeley Half three times before and it is one of my favorite races ever. I am excited to meet new people to run with!”
Christopher Lee – CRC Officer
“Hey everyone, I’m Chris and I’m a rising senior at UC Berkeley originally from the Bay Area. I’ve been running since I was super small and currently compete in track and field/cross country with Strawberry Canyon Track Club. I’ve raced the Berkeley Half every year since it’s so fun and I’ve had amazing memories every time. I’m excited to meet new Berkeley runners and have an awesome time running together this summer!”
3 Essential July Berkeley Training Tips
1. Keep Most Runs Easy
Run at a pace where you can hold a conversation. This develops aerobic capacity and reduces the risk of overtraining.
2. Add Strength Work Twice a Week
Strength training improves running economy and lowers injury risk (source). Focus on glutes, hamstrings, and core stability exercises.
3. Stay Hydrated and Adjust for Heat
Summer running requires extra hydration and pacing adjustments. Run early in the morning or evening to avoid peak heat, and drink water before, during, and after your runs.
Share Your Journey
Tag @berkeleyhalf and @calrunningclub on Instagram so we can support your journey.
Commit to Your Fall Finish Line
Register for the Berkeley Half Marathon and lock in your goal. We can’t wait to be at the finish line cheering you on!
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