How long should one expect prepare to run a marathon?
I don’t run much now, but have been wanting to exercise more. I think that having the marathon as a goal may help my motivation. I am in pretty good shape, but in general haven’t been a runner.
Any thoughts?
Can you recommend a good site for a training regimen?
http://www.slowtwitch.com - it’s a triathlon site, but you get the general idea
I’m currently training for a marathon in mid-February. The program I joined is about a 5 month program and has received good results for first-time marathoners. It’s a part of USAFit, which runs programs in cities with marathons, and also has some sort of online training guide for people who aren’t in one of the areas with a program. Unfortunately they want $$ for their knowledge, and I’m not sure how valuable their online only program is (it might just be a running schedule).
If you are looking at a local marathon to run in, I’d recommend joining an organized program - that way you’ll get to enjoy the camaraderie on group runs, have the accountability of others to keep you motivated, and if you’re lucky have a knowledgeable running coach.
I think that most training programs are on the order of 4-5 months.
Hey! I’m an assistant coach for the local chapter of USAFit. (incidentally, here, the online program is JUST the schedule to follow, and IMHO the benefit of the group is just that - a group to run with so that you don’t have to do 20 miles alone)
I recommend no less than 6 months. That’s typically what the average training program is. USAFit starts with being able to run/walk 3 miles, and takes you to 26.2. I think it would theoretically be possible to do it faster, but that would only be asking for trouble.
Incidentally, I had been running for about 2 and a half years before I began to train for a marathon. I think it’s wise to build a base first.
If you’re looking for a goal to get yourself exercising, maybe initially you could try for a 10K or half marathon. The amount you need to run to get in shape for those is enough to get you into great physical condition, but requires less time. The key to exercising is consistency, and if it takes too long for you to reach your goal and feel successful, you may burn out & give up.
At any rate, whatever you choose & however long it takes you to get there, I wish you luck in getting out there & doing it on a regular basis. With any luck your attitude is contagious!
Thanks for the ideas. I looked into USAFit, but there isn’t a program nearby. (I live in Annapolis, MD - about 40 min south of Baltimore)
I will think about the 10K and half marathon ideas. I agree it would be better to start with a closer goal.
ShouldBe, you live in Annapolis!?
I just moved from Annapolis last month! It’s too bad - we coulda been running partners. I’ve also been wanting to start an exercise program. Ah well. Good luck.
Ikujinashi and scout1222, six months? That’s all? Whoa. I would’ve imagined it took a lot longer. Ikujinashi, how’s it going so far? You’ve got four more months. How much running did you do before you started your current program?
Dangit, I’m inspired. I’m gonna start.
years and years , a couple years back in London there was this fat guy who did all 26 miles took him about 16 hours he stopped every few minutes to refuel (beer and pies) at pubs but he made it albeit in an extremely slow time since even at walking speed of say 4mph you can do it in about 6 1/2 hours
I’ve run a number of marathons and I agree with just about everyone that has been posted so far. A marathon is a long ways and it takes quite awhile to convince one’s body that it can accomplish such insanity.
I think five months is a minimum for someone even in very good condition. This is of course if you are planning on running the marathon and not just surviving it. Even at that five months’ target, you are talking about a pretty tough training schedule.
I also agree with the suggestions of stair-stepping your goals, 5ks, 10ks, 10 milers, half marathons and twenty milers. Your body has to become aclimated to the brain’s insanity in small doses.
I love running and taking part in the occasional marathon (now down to one or two a year). Welcome to the fraternity.
TV
Try this site: http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/marathon/marathon.html