Training Tips

The advent of a new year brings with it optimism and resolve.  Like so many others, you’ve decided to improve your fitness by running a marathon, perhaps your first.  Marathoning is more than a test of physical endurance – it’s also a test of mental endurance.  You’ve made the first step towards success by making a commitment both to yourself and to Run4NF.  As you’ve probably started to figure out, it’s a long way from resolution to accomplishment.  Just getting to the start line is an amazing achievement; finishing is a major triumph.

I’m fond of telling my friends and colleagues that just about anyone can run a marathon, given the proper training.  The best place to start your training is to find a qualified coach, knowledgeable in running and marathoning.  Even the most seasoned runner benefits from having a coach.  Sometimes you need somebody to tell you to take a day off; sometimes you need a little motivation.  More importantly, if you want to make it to the starting line, you’ll have to avoid the most common problem of all marathoners – injury.  A good coach will provide you with a training plan that is designed specifically for you, a plan that is designed to meet your needs and schedule. 

Injuries are one of the biggest obstacles to successfully completing a marathon.  A good coach will be able to help prevent injuries by creating a training plan that gradually increases both mileage and intensity.  In addition, every good training plan will have cutback weeks that help your body recover, both physically and mentally.  My current training is based on a three-week cycle – two hard weeks followed by one cutback week.  During the cutback week my mileage drops by 25% and the number of quality (hard) runs is also reduced.  A good training schedule minimizes the risk of injury and increases the chances of successfully completing the marathon.

Good coaches are abundant.  One of the best places to find a coach is to become a member of your local running club.  Of course, not everybody has a running club nearby.  So, the next place to try is a specialized running store.  More than likely, the people that work at a running store will be able to refer you to several coaches with marathon experience.  Failing those two options, you can find a plethora of online coaches that help average people attain their goal of running a marathon.  Most coaches will charge a fee, so it’s smart to check references before shelling out the bucks for a training plan.  Whoever you choose, be sure they will be available to answer questions, offer encouragement, and revise your schedule when necessary.

If you don’t have a coach, recruit a marathon and training buddy.  The hardest step you take is the first step out the door for a run.  Having someone to run with makes it easier because you know they are waiting on you.  Plus, on long runs, you’ll have somebody to talk with and pass the time.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get some good coaching, but an injury can be costly both in terms of money and time.  One of the first things I learned about preparing for a marathon was importance of proper training.  A coach’s experience is vital to ensuring that your training is both beneficial and safe. 

You’ve been inspired to Run4NF.  Most likely, that inspiration is also somebody you love and cherish.  Every step of your training is a testament to the importance of finding a cure for the disease.  While finishing the marathon might bring you a great deal of satisfaction, it’s your desire to help others that will last.  A marathon is just a race; a cure is a life.

Every step of your training is a testament to the importance of finding a cure for the disease.