To successfully complete a marathon you must run as far as you possibly can within your body's comfort level. That might sound like an oxymoron when we're talking about 26.2 miles, - but it is possible! If you can reach the 16 mile mark without a lot of stress then you have a good chance of finishing the race without too much trouble.
The key point is to start out with a target pace range in mind, and not an absolute goal like 3hr 45 m. For example you might pick a pace between 8:30 to 9:00 minutes per mile (for a marathon time in the 3hr 40m to 4 hr range approximately). Then adjust your pace according to the conditions and your own running ability on marathon day. It's usually better to start at the slower end and then increase the pace as you get further into the race.
Whenever you set a goal, your mind immediately begins to start listing all the obstacles that stand in your way. This is good! Write them down quickly and you already have a list of steps you need to take and you have already started a written plan!
A 16 week marathon training plan will have you covering about 600 miles. At a nine minute per mile pace, this is 5,600 minutes, or 90 hours of running. Split this between the 16 weeks and it works out at 50 minutes a day, every day for 16 weeks.
Do your research. Find a program that fits your personal schedule. You may only have 4 days a week to train. If this is the case, stay away from programs that require more days of training. You may think you can adjust the schedule to fit your needs, and in some cases you can, but there is a reason for those extra days if they are in the schedule. There are plenty of programs to choose from.
One of the most important things you can do at the start of the race is taking into account the main factors that can affect your performance and modify your target time if necessary. For example if the weather is extreme, especially too hot, you would do well to add 10 - 15 minutes to your goal. I usually add 30 seconds to my pace, which equates to 13 minutes extra. This is a hard choice to make after all your training, but it's better to be realistic up front than to 'crash' at the 18 mile mark and limp into the finish line.
Ultimate Training Program for Marathon Running
Are you a marathon enthusiast? Or do you enjoy running for pleasure and fitness, but want to step up your game and run better, faster and with more strength and stamina? Free online running, jogging & walking tips from how to avoid injuries to how to train in winter. Find the top tips for improving your marathon running techniques and staying fit and healthy, including advice on choosing the right running shoes. Now, you can increase your speed, stamina and strength, and dominate the Marathon! You can successfully take part in the Marathon regardless of your age, gender, current running speed or skill level. Visit the guide for successfully participate in Marathon running - http://marathon-running.org
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Increase your speed, stamina and strength, and dominate the Marathon! You can successfully take part in the Marathon regardless of your age, gender, current running speed or skill level. Visit the guide for successfully participate in Marathon running here Also, if you are a 5k race enthusiast, check it out for how to improve Your 5K Race time, tolerance level, achieve the right balance of strength and speed by visiting the ultimate guide on 5K Races here