Global Sports: How To Make Your Ambitions Of Running A Marathon A Certainty

Monday, January 31, 2011

How To Make Your Ambitions Of Running A Marathon A Certainty

By Brian Q. Xavier


Anybody who has been running consistently for any time has thought about running a marathon. The marathon has been a highlight of the Olympics for thousands of years, and is based on the Greeks' victory over the Persians at the battle of Marathon. Phidippides ran 26 miles from Marathon to Athens to declare victory. Unfortunately, he dropped dead soon after. In this article you'll learn how to train for and easily run a marathon without dropping dead when you finish.

This training method is taking from Jeff Galloway's widely read book, "Galloway on Running." This book is filled with priceless information on how to make running a life long passion, and get the most out of it while minimizing any chance of injuries. It's been a popular book for many years, and is highly recommended.

A marathon is a long, long time to run. In order to do so, you've got to get your body used to it. Many people attempt a marathon without proper training, and pay the price afterwards. But when you follow the correct training regimen, running a marathon will be just like any other weekend run. The secret is to slowly build up your stamina over time. The key is to start training at least 20 weeks before the marathon. If you are planning on running a marathon in a couple weeks, then I recommend plenty of Advil.

While you are training, you'll need to separate your runs into two different groups. Regular runs, and the long run. Your regular runs should be just that. Regular distance, regular pace. Whatever pace and distance you are running now, that's your regular run. Don't worry about changing the speed or pace of your regular runs during the week.

The long run, on the other hand, is where you will be slowly getting your body accustomed to running 26.2 miles. This should take place on your day off from work, as you'll be needing more and more time each week. It's pretty straightforward. Start your long run off as the same length as your regular run. Then simply increase it by one mile each week.So if you run two miles every other day, your first long run should be two miles. Then three miles next week, four the following, and so on. Be sure to keep your normal runs the same distance and speed, and be sure to give yourself at least one day off per week to rest and recover. This is essential.

That's basically it. By slowing increasing your long run every week, by the time the marathon rolls around, your body will have a "been there, done that," attitude, and it will be a walk in the park.




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