My good friend and running expert Jill Bruyere is my ‘go-to girl’ for any running related questions. She’s posted on my blog in the past and here she has some great advice for anyone considering a marathon. She has a very affordable e-book that will guide you every step of the way. Currently, my business coach is preparing for the San Diego marathon this June with Jill’s program and is singing the praises of her expertise. (And this guy is a full on trainer himself, but marathon training is a whole different beast!)
So, here’s Jill with her best advice for you:
If you are a runner with a goal to run your first marathon or run a PR marathon then you no doubt been exposed to your share of advice. If your years of training and researching about how to train for a marathon or how to improve your marathon PR have resulted in frustration, self-doubt, and confusion, then read on. The next few paragraphs may provide you with what you’ve been looking for.
Since you’ve decided to dedicate yourself to this goal, and have entrusted me to help you reach that goal, I want to share some thoughts with you regarding the benefits of following my marathon plan, and why some of the elements are included.
First, the inspirational pep talk
One of the greatest aspects of running is its tangible quality: It is very easy to measure progress in running. If you can accomplish a mile when you never thought you could, what else can you accomplish? Once you have been able to run a few miles, than maybe you will be able to run 10, 15, 20 miles, and eventually, the marathon distance. We all know that Running is difficult at times, but I believe it is the best activity there is for several reasons:
1. Running develops cardiovascular fitness
2. Running is the most accessible of aerobic sports
3. Running is inexpensive and easy to start
4. Running is one the best methods of stress reduction
5. Running is an excellent component of any weight control or weight loss program
6. Running is a convenient and flexible method of training
7. Running makes you feel good!
Now, why should you do it with my program?
I firmly believe that a 4 day per week running schedule is optimal for a majority of runners. You can get all the mileage you need as a beginning to mid-level runner in 4 days. Adding more days, or more mileage will help you improve, but also introduces a higher likelihood of injury
Running a marathon exacts a great toll on a runner’s body. Strengthening the core and legs will help you better deal with the mileage you will run over the next several months. You don’t need expensive equipment or a gym membership to build a stronger body. Body weight exercises are all you need. In fact, most elite runners do a majority of their strength training in this manner. When I started doing these exercises, I couldn’t believe how much stronger I felt and how much my running improved. I did a 6 exercise set, twice a week, and was amazed by the results. It’s simple, but it works. Included in my marathon training program is a full body weight training program to be performed at least twice per week.
Marathon training will be challenging, but should be fun and enjoyable. Following a plan that does not overdo it on the running should help make the experience a pleasant one. Remember, you can successfully train for and finish a marathon. Believe in yourself and believe in the training program. Once you begin to believe, then you will realize your goal. Finishing a marathon is an accomplishment that less than 1% of people in the world can say they have achieved. You are about to be one of them!
So there you have it. I’ll have Jill post for us from time to time, but if you’re interested in her e-book, you can check it out here.