Half Marathon Walking Division
Embrace a Walking Adventure in Pittsburgh!
Step into a world of fitness, camaraderie, and scenic beauty with the captivating 13.1-mile Half Marathon Walking Division. This division offers a unique opportunity to conquer the iconic half marathon course at your own pace, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city and the support of fellow participants.
To register for the Half Marathon Walking Division, all you need to do is register for the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon and answer YES to the question "Would you like to participate in the official Walking Division?"
Starting in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, the Half Marathon Walking Division provides an inclusive platform for walkers of all levels to experience the city's charm and diversity. You'll traverse the same stunning course as the runners, crossing renowned bridges and exploring neighborhoods that define Pittsburgh's character.
This division is designed with your aspirations in mind, offering a space for personal achievement and shared success. Whether you're a seasoned walker aiming for a new accomplishment or taking your first steps toward a half marathon, this event empowers you to embrace the journey on your terms.
As you journey through 13.1 miles of picturesque landscapes, you'll connect with a passionate community of walkers who share your dedication and enthusiasm. The route is lined with cheering spectators and a contagious sense of camaraderie that adds an extra layer of motivation to your stride.
The Half Marathon Walking Division is a celebration of your determination, spirit, and commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Join the ranks of those who choose to take this inspiring journey, and be part of an event that consistently garners praise for its seamless organization, clear guidance, and the incredible encouragement of the crowd.
Register now and step onto the path that leads to a memorable achievement and a sense of fulfillment. The Half Marathon Walking Division at the Pittsburgh Marathon invites you to unlock your potential, connect with like-minded individuals, and experience the city in a whole new way. Your transformative journey begins here – are you ready to take that first stride?
Questions & Answers
When you register for the half marathon, you’ll see a question asking if you’d like to participate in the walking division. If you plan to walk, please answer “yes” to this question so we can assign your corral accordingly.
The walking division is non-competitive, and there will be no awards. All walking division finishers will receive the half marathon finisher’s medal.
Participants in the walking division will need to maintain an average 20 minutes per mile pace for the 13.1-mile course.
Due to course time limits and the need to reopen the streets on time, we are only able to offer the official walking category to the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon in 2025. Participants in the marathon will still need to maintain an average pace of 16 minutes per mile. (An average pace of 16 minutes per mile means that if you take 18 minutes to MOVE through the first mile and 14 minutes to MOVE through the second mile, you’ve averaged 16 minutes per mile for those 2 miles.) Several marathon participants use a run-walk-run approach to complete the 26.2-mile course, so as long as you maintain the 16 minute-per-mile maximum pace, you’re good to go!
Due to course time limits and the need to reopen the streets on time, we are only able to offer the official walking category to the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon in 2025. Participants in the marathon relay will still need to maintain an average pace of 16 minutes per mile. (An average pace of 16 minutes per mile means that if you take 18 minutes to MOVE through the first mile and 14 minutes to MOVE through the second mile, you’ve averaged 16 minutes per mile for those 2 miles.) Several marathon relay participants use a run-walk-run approach to complete the 26.2-mile course, so as the team maintains the 16 minute-per-mile maximum pace, you’re good to go!
Due to the back-to-back schedule of events on Saturday morning, we are unable to include an official walking division. That being said, we have always welcomed walkers to the UPMC Health Plan | UPMC Sports Medicine Pittsburgh 5K Run. The 5K begins at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, and all participants will need to cross the finish line by 8:30 a.m.
Due to course time limits and the need to reopen the streets on time, we are only able to offer the official walking category to the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon in 2025 - this does not include the Back Half Marathon because it is on the second half of the 26.2-mile marathon course with its own later start time (and we are unable to extend the road closure times on the second half of the marathon course). Participants in the back half marathon will still need to maintain an average pace of 16 minutes per mile. (An average pace of 16 minutes per mile means that if you take 18 minutes to MOVE through the first mile and 14 minutes to MOVE through the second mile, you’ve averaged 16 minutes per mile for those 2 miles.) If you would like to MOVE at a pace slower than 16 minutes per mile, you will need to participate in the original half marathon.