If you're reading this, you're probably considering training for a marathon. Whether you're running the race for a personal reason or for a loved one, there are a few things that you need to know. I'm just a newbie marathoner, but I hope to share some insight as to what helped me reach the finish line as well as help you reach your own goals!
1. Begin your training early
You know your body and your limitations. However, if you have no experience running like myself you need to get yourself used to running at least 1 to 3 miles before officially starting your training. From personal experience, trying to run a mile was torture. There were days I would wake up at 6:30 am and barely reach a mile. I realized I was more focused on my pace, rather than the distance achieved. DO NOT FALL INTO THIS TRAP. Just focus on finishing the mile, regardless of how long it takes you. Throughout your training, your pace will improve. However, if you are not an avid runner then take your time. Doing this will allow you to feel your body out, and make any needed adjustments during the duration of your training.
2. Get an accountability partner(s)
Having a partner to keep you accountable for your runs is literally the best thing you can do. Invite a friend to train with you, or check out a marathon training group in your local area. Doing so, will keep you motivated and on track. On the days I didn't train with my partner, I used running apps to keep track of my pace and distance. It was definitely a great way challenge myself to reach my desired goal!
3. RUNNING SHOES, RUNNING SHOES, RUNNING SHOES!
Alright, listen up. Do yourself a favor and buy some running shoes at your local running/athletics store. Some may even get you fitted properly in order to minimize injury and discomfort while training and on race day. This will be a life saver! I learned my lesson, after running my first 7 miles with the a pair of sneakers I thought were appropriate. You don't want to spend the rest of your training suffering in pain, so you might as well invest in a good pair of running shoes.
4. Listen to your body
Give yourself some rest days! Don't overexert your body, because your performance will take a massive blow! There are some people who can run 6 days a week and feel perfectly fine, while there are others who can only train 3 days a week. Everyone's body responds to physical exertion differently. When you being your training, take it nice and slow. Your body will not be used to this kind of activity and if so it may need a few days to heal. However, consistency is key. So try not to fall into the habit of skipping training for weeks at a time. In addition to your training, you must learn to properly fuel and hydrate your body. For longer runs, make sure your are fueling with gels/chews/snacks and are consuming enough water/gatorade to keep you sustained and energized.
5. Get some practice
Practice running a race, whether its a 5K, 10K, or 20 miler to acquaint yourself with what you may expect on the day of your marathon. No matter where you start out, running a race is challenging yet attainable. Just remember that you can do whatever you set your mind to.
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| Ran my first 20 miler, a week before the actual marathon. It was brutal, but I pulled through! |
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| 26.2 miles completed! |
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