Your Guide to Getting a Medical Certificate for a Half Marathon

Dr Simon Shaw, Co-Founder @ Fit Certify | 5th April 2025 | hello@fitcertify.com

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Whether it’s your first race or your fiftieth, signing up for a half marathon is an exciting challenge. But if you’re planning to run in countries like Italy or France, there’s one important detail to check off your list before race day: a valid sports medical certificate.

Not sure what it is, why it’s needed, or how to get one? You’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — and show you how Fit Certify makes it quick and easy to get your medical certificate sorted online, wherever you are in the world.

What Is a Half Marathon?

A half marathon is a 21.1km (13.1-mile) road race — a serious endurance event that draws runners of all levels, from seasoned athletes to those tackling their first big race. Whether it’s through the rolling hills of the English countryside or the cobbled streets of Florence, half marathons are a brilliant challenge and a celebration of fitness, community, and determination.

Half marathons are held all over the world, and many events—especially in Europe—require proof that you’re fit to participate. That’s where a medical certificate for sports comes in.

Why Do You Need a Medical Certificate to Run One?

In countries like Italy and France, a valid medical certificate of fitness is often mandatory for all participants in competitive sporting events, including half marathons.

Here’s why you might need one:

It’s not just a box to tick — it’s an essential part of ensuring that you’re ready to take on the challenge safely.

A group of runners participating in a half marathon, after getting a sports medical certificate for runners from Fit Certify.

What Should Be Included in a Half Marathon Medical Certificate?

Most race organisers require a signed and stamped certificate that includes:

"..does not present any contraindication related to competitive running events."

An essential statement on many Half Marathon Medical Certificates

Why Choose Fit Certify?

At Fit Certify, we specialise in medical certificates for runners and endurance athletes in the UK and worldwide. Here’s why thousands of runners worldwide choose us:

A mobile phone displaying a medical certificate for half marathon, signed by a doctor at Fit Certify.

How to Get Your Half Marathon Medical Certificate with Fit Certify

Getting certified with Fit Certify is easy and takes just a few minutes:

1

Complete our Application Form

Tell us about your health and training history through our secure application form.

2

Upload a Race Template (If Required)

If your event provides a specific medical form, upload it. Otherwise, we’ll use our standard certificate that’s accepted by most races worldwide.

3

Receive Your Certificate by Email

Our doctors review your form, sign your certificate, and email it to you — within just a few hours.

Wrapping Up

If you’re planning to run a half marathon in Italy, France, or any country where medical certificates are required, don’t leave it to the last minute. Fit Certify offers a fast, stress-free way to get race-ready — all from the comfort of home.

🏃‍♂️💨 Get your half marathon medical certificate today, and take the next step towards race day with confidence.