Anyone Train for a Marathon??

So to help motivate me in logging in some hours at the gym I decided to set a goal for myself (that wasn't weight related, just fitness related)

I found that the first weekend in May, in Eisenhower Park there is a marathon every year. THere's a 5k, 10k and full marathon. The 5k intrigues me. I can run 1 mile in about 15 min...which I don't think is really good. So I am thinking of making this 5k in May my first goal - which leaves me 6 months.

Anyone ever train for a marathon???

Any tips/advice - MUCH APPRECIATED!

Message edited 11/13/2007 5:22:48 PM.

Re: Anyone Train for a Marathon??

My FIL has run the NYc marathon a few times and he told me that the first step is endurance without paying any attention to speed. Try to run for as long as you can without stopping and then work on speed 1 or 2 days a week very gradually.

Re: Anyone Train for a Marathon??

i've run two marathons (so far). are you looking for advice on training for a marathon, or for the 5K?

you have plenty of time to get up to 5K is 6 months. i would try to slowly increase your distance and once you get up to 5 miles you can start trying to get faster. i've been running for about 6 years and i still take walk breaks (about 1 min every 10 min) so don't be afraid to incorporate them if they help you. feel free to fm me if you like.

good luck!

Re: Anyone Train for a Marathon??

i want to do the half marathon in may.

www.coolrunning.com has good programs for beginners. so does about.com and running.com

i am starting slow, you definitely have enough time to train for a 10k or the half by may.

and invest in a really good pair of running sneakers!

good luck

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Re: Anyone Train for a Marathon??

I have run dozens of 10k's and 5k's, 4 half's and 1 marathon.

My best advice is to join a running team. I joined a charity when I trained for the NYC marathon and had a blast. I made great friends and had the best 17 weeks ever...although painful.

If that is not an option, there are many programs out there but be careful. You do not want to run too much too soon. start slow and make sure you crosstrain...this is a MUST to avoid injury. You should only be running 3 maybe 4 miles depending on your goals a week and crosstraining the rest.

I just joined Team in Training and will be training for the Atlanta half in March and the NYC marathon in '08! Let me know if you have any specific questions. Running is one of my greatest passions and I would be happy to help.

Message edited 11/13/2007 9:41:39 PM.

Re: Anyone Train for a Marathon??

Thx for the tips everyone!

I"m kind of excited about this DH is encouraging me to try for the 10k... he even offered to do it w/ me, but I think it's something i need to do for myself.

I'm getting pumped

Re: Anyone Train for a Marathon??

My DH has done marathons and more than 25 half marathons. I can always run specific training questions by him.

You can easily leg up for a 10k by May, maybe even the half. There are tons of good running programs out there designed to get you to a specific time or distance running.

I HIGHLY recommend going to a GOOD running store and beging fitted for the correct running shoes for your feet and stride. That makes a huge difference!