Marathon Training

preparing for your next marathon...

Marathon training is a serious business. You could be running for charity, running to get fit, or just running for the buzz that come from completing the race. Whatever your reason, running 26 miles is an outstanding achievement that will give you an amazing feeling of satisfaction. However, if you don't prepare, and are not ready, you will most likely fail and quite possibly injure yourself. To ensure a successful, injury-free race we have put together a series of suggestions that you will find useful.

Marathon Training Schedule
It is vital that you have training schedule. Whether you are running for the first time or are aiming for a personal best, you will need to plan your training efforts. Trying to run too far too soon could result in shin splints and other injuries. Similarly, too much effort can lead to strains and sprains. Setting out a sensible, realistic timetable, laying out when to run, how far to run and when to rest will prevent training injuries and help you achieve your aims.

Marathon Training
The basics of training for marathons apply to all runners. There are two main differences which affect your plans - experience and ambitions - the greater your ambitions the harder you will need to train. However in all cases there are a few fundental rules:

How to Train for a Marathon
Running 26 miles requires that you wear the correct kit - shoes, socks, running top, shorts, etc. Choosing the right gear will ensure you avoid injury and enjoy your training.

1. Increase your efforts week-on-week
2. Vary your distances over each week
3. Allow time to rest and recover
4. Warm-up before every run
5. Eat sensibly

Marathon Training Questions
There are many questions to ask when training for a marathon. These include:

1. Is it best to train on roads or treadmill?
2. What should I do if injured during training?
3. Is there any benefit from training more than once per day?