Marathon Training
Marathon training means something different to those that have ran marathons prior, versus those who have not run a marathon.
Hi, my name is Jennifer and I am the run coach at RunToFinish.com. I design all marathon training programs around your needs.
Click Here to check out my marathon training programs and resources.
For beginners, training to run a marathon involves so many things, but most important…you need to make a couple initial decisions. First, you must realize that the distance is 26.2 miles and requires full dedication and adequate preparation. You must also ask yourself if the discipline and desire to finish such a feat is enough to follow through on the training necessary. Without proper dedication, you will end up walking the route or getting a DNF next to your name. Just showing up on the start line is no approach.
For experienced marathoners, you just need to build on what you have done, but for many, there is a feeling that you have reached a plateau. Over the years, I have seen this time and time again. Often, you feel running faster or changing to some wacky training regimen is the answer. This is not true. The simple fact is you need someone to initially point out any issues and then to help you make the needed adjustments.
Regardless of your present abilities, I am confident I can help. I offer more than just marathon training tips; you may select my Ask The Coach program which provides unlimited feedback during your training, and is available to all levels. For most though, my Personalized Training Programs may be your best option.
Though my Personalized Training Programs and Training Guides are presented in Beginner to Advanced ‘titles’, I do not have pre-determined running workout schedules. I will develop a marathon training program based on your abilities and goals. The ‘titles’ are more for the amount of training time required.
My philosophy on marathon training has evolved over the years. I can’t say I have changed how I approach training to run a marathon, except for how prepared I have been, my overall schedule, and my goals. Before I ever start training to run a marathon, I take stock in my present fitness level, my personal availability, and goals.
My experience and insight enables runners of all abilities to finish a marathon comfortably and safely with a few easy training concepts. To successfully train for a marathon you need to allow 20-24 weeks to prepare with a gradual increase in mileage in addition to incorporating speed, hills, and strength training. Running the full marathon distance is not necessary during the training, and I recommend the longest run to be 22 miles no more than three weeks before the race.
The majority of my runners who have followed my training plan not only finished their first marathons successfully, but have entered multiple 26.2 mile events setting PR’s. The training is not easy, but I promise if you stick the plan you will make it to the starting line rested and healthy.
