Marathon Training Schedule

Marathon training schedule, here is one that I've put together for my next marathon in 2010, after, trial and error, under-training for my last two marathons and paying for it dearly.

Feel free to use it all, use parts of it, or throw it out completely and make your own schedule. Notice that I start with a minimum of 4 mile runs, so if you are not already comfortable running 4 miles, you're going to want to build up to that first.

You might like to alternative pilates with some other aerobic workout. I choose pilates because it helps strengthen the abs, core, and get in a good stretch. For more on alternatitve areobics, see total fitness.

Your training runs (calisthenics, hill training, speed training) will probably be harder than your long runs, but they are very important. These will help make you a faster, more fit runner.

Calisthenics

Hill Training

Speed Training

Weights are not about bulk, just strength to make your runs easier on your joints. For more about weight training, see total fitness.

It's also important to stretch before and after your runs and other workouts. Here are some stretching techniques.

The off day is very important in your marathon training because your body needs time to recover.

Take it easy - make a schedule that works for you and don't beat yourself up or try to do extra to make up if you miss a training here and there. As long as you stick to AT LEAST 75% of this schedule, run at least 3 days / week, and do one other kind of workout at least 1 day a week, you will do fine. But remember, the better you train, the easier you will make it on yourself, come marathon day.