# PR Nerd > PR Nerd (pr-nerd.run) is a free running resource for competitive distance runners training for half marathons and marathons. It provides personalized training plans, pace calculators, race finders, and training advice built on real exercise physiology. All tools are free with no account or subscription required. ## Core Tools - [Training Plan Generator](https://pr-nerd.run/plan): Generates personalized half marathon and marathon training plans based on a recent race time. Uses VDOT methodology to calculate a fitness score and set calibrated training paces for easy runs, tempo runs, intervals, long runs, and marathon pace work. Plans include base, build, peak, and taper phases with cutback weeks. Downloadable as PDF, Excel, or Garmin FIT files. - [Running Pace Calculator](https://pr-nerd.run/pace-calculator): Calculates training paces from any recent race time (5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon). Returns easy pace, tempo pace, interval pace, marathon pace, and race time equivalents across distances. - [Race Finder](https://pr-nerd.run/races/find): Finds upcoming marathons, half marathons, 10Ks, and 5Ks within a specified radius using RunSignup data. ## City Running Guides Local running resources for major US cities including upcoming races, notable races, and running groups. - [Chicago](https://pr-nerd.run/races/chicago) - [New York City](https://pr-nerd.run/races/new-york) - [Boston](https://pr-nerd.run/races/boston) - [Los Angeles](https://pr-nerd.run/races/los-angeles) - [Houston](https://pr-nerd.run/races/houston) - [Twin Cities](https://pr-nerd.run/races/twin-cities) - [Philadelphia](https://pr-nerd.run/races/philadelphia) - [Seattle](https://pr-nerd.run/races/seattle) - [Washington DC](https://pr-nerd.run/races/washington-dc) - [Portland](https://pr-nerd.run/races/portland) - [Denver](https://pr-nerd.run/races/denver) - [Atlanta](https://pr-nerd.run/races/atlanta) - [Austin](https://pr-nerd.run/races/austin) - [Charlotte](https://pr-nerd.run/races/charlotte) - [Des Moines](https://pr-nerd.run/races/des-moines) ## Training Articles - [Zone 2 Running: Your Watch Is Probably Lying to You](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/zone-2-running-your-watch-is-lying-to-you): Why heart rate zones are unreliable and how to use the talk test and calibrated paces instead. - [Why Your Goal Pace Doesn't Drive Your Training](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/why-your-goal-pace-doesnt-drive-your-training): Training paces should be based on current fitness, not goal race time. - [The Long Run Is Not a Race](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/the-long-run-is-not-a-race): Why running long runs too fast undermines marathon training. - [How to Run Your First Sub 2 Hour Half Marathon](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/how-to-run-your-first-sub-2-hour-half-marathon): Fitness requirements, pacing strategy, and training approach for breaking 2 hours in the half marathon. - [How to Fuel Long Runs and Races Without Bonking](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/how-to-fuel-long-runs-and-races): Fueling strategy for long runs and races including gel timing, hydration, and electrolytes. - [Why Every Run Should Not Feel the Same](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/why-every-run-should-not-feel-the-same): The importance of training pace variation and periodization. - [Cadence: What Is It and Does It Really Matter](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/cadence-what-is-it-and-does-it-really-matter): Running cadence explained, how to measure it, and whether improving it actually helps performance. - [What Running a Marathon Actually Costs You](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/what-marathon-actually-costs): The real time, physical, and nutritional demands of marathon training from a runner with two marathon finishes. - [Neutral, Stability, Max Cushion, Oh My: How to Pick the Right Running Shoe](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/neutral-stability-max-cushion-oh-my): Guide to running shoe categories including daily trainers, max cushion, stability, racing, and tempo shoes. - [Overcoming Plantar Fasciitis](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/overcoming-plantar-fasciitis): A 10-year personal journey with plantar fasciitis and the daily routine that resolved it. - [The Tune-Up Race vs The Endless Race Calendar](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/the-tune-up-race-vs-the-endless-race-calendar): How to use tune-up races effectively versus racing too frequently and undermining training. - [You're a Runner Now. You Can Eat Whatever You Want, Right?](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/runner-eat-whatever-you-want): The real calorie math behind running and weight loss, including an interactive calorie burn calculator. - [Running in the Heat](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/running-in-the-heat): How heat and humidity affect running performance, pace adjustments for hot weather training, and hydration strategy. - [What My Best Running Year Taught Me](https://pr-nerd.run/blog/what-my-best-running-year-taught-me): Personal reflections on a breakthrough year of running and the training and lifestyle changes that drove it. ## Optional - [About PR Nerd](https://pr-nerd.run/about): Background on the site, its tools, and the runner who built it. - [Privacy Policy](https://pr-nerd.run/privacy): Data collection and usage policy. - [Contact](https://pr-nerd.run/contact): Contact form for questions and feedback.