I just did my first 1/2 marathon.  To train, I went to runnersworld.com and used their SmartCoach program. It allows you to put in where you are, what you want to do, and when you want to do it then gives you a training schedule.  On mine it had me running 2 shorter runs (with pace work)  and one long (slower) run per week in the beginning, and toward the end 3 shorter runs and 1 long run per week.  You pick the day of the week that you want the long run and it programs around that.  I believe as long as the runs are spaced a day or two apart so your legs recover, you can be flexible with your schedule, shifting a day here and there as needed.  I can't speak for anyone else, but my first 1/2 marathon went perfectly, right on pace, ran the entire time, and felt really good at the end of it.

Seriously, no desire to do 26.2 at this time.  That is reallllly far!!!!   It is really odd though...going to the event how "inferior?" one feels for only doing the "half marathon". Or maybe that is all in my head.  At one time I would have been amazed at running more that 3 miles, then at the event I was "embarrassed" at doing "only the half".  It is a wonderful experience and one that I am proud to have accomplished.  I love events because the community is so supportive.

I work a rotating 12hr. shift. My hardest times to run are on day shift. By the time I get home it is late and I don't feel like doing any running. My best bet is to hit the treadmill right when I get home. Now that it is light out I can do a quick 31/2mile run. Nights isn't a problem. I run as soon as I get up. I usually run 5-6 miles on night shift. On my days off I try to get in at least one 9mile run. With all that in mind I usually only get in 3 running days. I would like to get more but it just isn't possible for me and I am not going to stress about it.

I started running in Jan. 08 and I try to enter at least one event a month to keep myself motivated. My ultimate goal is to run a marathon.

I'm so glad I found your post! I trained and ran my first marathon 2 years ago. I loved it. Since then I cross trained into a new job, where I work rotating 12 or 8 hour shifts, 2/3 on 2/3 off, so I'm in the exact same schedule as you. I miss more planned runs than I want to because of it. I'll have every intention of running, but as soon as i get home I hit the pillow. I also do better with night shift-it's easier to wake up early than to run after shift. I've seen a huge decline in my running, so I'm going to check out these sites-I'm doing a half-marathon in May! (my carrot!) Thanks everyone for the advice shared here.