What's the best way to train for a marathon?
I'd like to start running marathons and I already do run at the gym and in a boot camp class, but not for longer than 2-3 miles. What's the best way to prepare myself to run longer distances? For example, at which speed and for how long? At which point should I increase my speed/length of time?
Answers:
Would you run in a clothing optional 5k ??
The very first step in training for a marathon is to respect the distance. Running for 26.2 miles is no small feat, and proper training is required, especially for the first time. In my humble opinion, far and away the best way to train is by joining a local marathon training program. You can search for a local one at the active.com website (see link #1). They will show you all the pitfalls of training to run that distance, and they will provide the support that you need when the training starts to seem impossible.Most marathon training programs (see link #2 for an example) involve 3-4 days of easy runs of about 30-45 minutes and one long run per week. The long run starts off at about 3-6 miles and increases weekly by one mile until around ten miles. Then, jumps of two miles are made every two weeks, separated by a long run of a shorter distance. As you can see, these training programs are awfully involved and being part of a program simplifies things greatly.
Since you are able to run about 2-3 miles, you may wish to try to comfortably run a few more miles, about 4-5, before joining. This is best done by gradually increasing the number of miles of your runs. For example, you can run 2 miles one week, 3 miles the next, and so forth. All of these runs should be done at a comfortable pace. At least at the beginning, your primary focus should be the distance, not the speed. "Victory is not to the swift, but to those who keep moving."
Welcome to the marathon world~!
How fast can u run 2 miles? 1 mile? 40 yard dash?
If your mileage is only 2-3 miles right now, I would consider joining a local running group. Usually, they will have all types at all levels so that you will often find someone with the same ability and goals. These "teams" will set goals for you, give tips on nutrition, help with shoe selection and running technique. These can often be contacted by going to your local running store that more than likely sponsors races and holds clinics. Be patient, hard work will get you there. Learn to run farther before you run faster. Good luck.What are some good ways to improve my mile time?
Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to work up to 26.2 miles. As the others have said, it is a tough task to complete, just because the body is not made to handle the pounding and intensity that a marathon brings. That's why a half-marathon is "easy" and even a 30K wouldn't be too bad. Those last six miles are the hard part. My college coach told me "The best thing I can suggest is to get mileage and tempo runs in. As your mileage increases, some of the runs need to increase in pace." I would suggest running a half-marathon race (or just casual run) at least once before you get to the marathon. If you can handle it, get one 20 miler in, about two or three weeks before the marathon, just so your body can get used to the heavy mileage.More Questions & Answers...