This week officially kicks off my marathon training program. From now until December 13, I will be running more than I ever have, and I am excited to have finally started this 16 week party!
I’m feeling pretty good as I begin training. I maintained a solid base this summer and I have been really healthy (knock on wood). I got my miles in early last week so that I could take a mini-break this weekend before running takes over my life. While I was visiting my best friend in Portland, OR over the weekend, I went hiking instead of running. There were some pretty spectacular views along the way!
As far my training program goes, I researched many plans and then chose one specifically geared toward first-time marathoners. I intend to follow it for the most part. The biggest change I made to the plan was how far my longest run will take me. While the original plan recommended doing three 20 mile runs before race day, my longest run will likely be in the 22-24 mile range. The reason: I know that I would have extreme anxiety getting to mile 20 on race day and think to myself, “I still have a 10K to go and I’ve not done a step longer than this in the past.” For my own sanity, a 22 or 24 mile run is necessary. I am well aware of arguments against this, but I just have to go with my gut on this one!
I also have a few other races mixed in to help me get through some of those long runs. This weekend I am doing The Atl 20K.
My main goal for my first marathon is just to finish. Depending on how I feel on race day, I have two targets in mind for a finish time – one for if I am feeling pretty good, the other if I happen to feel fantastic.
I’m open to any and all marathon tips for first timers! Leave a comment, or send me a tweet!