Marathon question?
I'm thinking about running one of two marathons this summer. One has a decline of about 1,500 feet the other about 500 feet. Which one will be easier?
Answers:
Another factor is weather/location. Which place will be hotter? that one will be the toughest.
Have a blast!
Is there any way to overturn running flat-footed?
The one that is declined 1,500 feet because that means it is more downhill. Decline means down. Incline means up. But it won't be easier just for you, it will be easier for everyone.Remember that
The 500 feet. The one with 1500 feet will have more uphills to run.
The one with less decline will be easier. Why? Because declines in general are rough on the knees. The less decline the better, assuming you don't train for it specifically. I personally prefer more uphill in my races.
See if the marathon websites post an elevation map. The one with the fewest "inclines" (hills) is the easier of the two. A bigger factor than hills for me is the temperature. I'd also check out the average temperature for both races at race time. I've run my best races when the temps were in the 40s & 50s. There are some other marathon tips below. Good luck in your training & have a great race!
Have you ever been able to walk in your cross country race at school and still win?
You can not judge on that amount of decline, just because mainly, it may have more downhills but you never know how many uphills you will encounter. You may have to do a lot of up hills in order to reach the lowest point. Your best bet is to find a course map and watch the elevation changes all throughout the course. Train for hills, training for hills is difficult but if you know how to run them your set. Going uphill pump your arms and run on your toes. Downhill, let your arms flail around and go from heel to toe every time you step down but remember to widen your stride. If you train for hills the elevation will not make a difference seeing as how you will be ready for anything. Good Luck---James
First go to the following site and read the actual runners comments about both races: www.MarathonGuide.com. The location of the race (altitude & when the elevation drop occurs) are important factors to evaluate. The 1500 feet sounds favorable, but unless it's spread out along most of the course it can be tough on the quads and knees. Usually a generally flatter or gently rolling marathon course is best unless you are an experienced long distance runner.
I want a sub 6 mile, what should i do?
The decline might seem easier but it still takes its toll, especially on the quadriceps.More Questions & Answers...