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Nov 6, 2014
Running Tips

So You Want To Run Your 1st Marathon Next Fall, Now What?

This time of year it’s difficult not to catch marathon fever. I haven’t conducted any studies to prove this theory, but I’m pretty sure more people commit to running their first marathon during the fall then when making New Years Resolutions on January 1.

Run Your First Marathon

If you’ve been inspired to conquer 26.2 miles next fall, here’s what you should do for the next 12 months.

Months 1-4 (November – February): Build a strong endurance base and a strong body.

  • Strength train 2-3 times a week
  • Focus on fixing any imbalances or weaknesses you’ve identified
  • Improve your running form
  • Build a solid running base by consistently running 3-5 days a week.

Months 5-8 (March – June): Develop speed + Race a Half Marathon

  • Continue to strength train 2-3x a week
  • Incorporate fartleks & hill repeats
  • Race a Half Marathon in late May or anytime during the month of June

Months 9-12 (July – October): Follow a Marathon Training Plan (Read: How Long Should My Marathon Training Plan Be?)

How Long Should My Marathon Training Plan Be?

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  1. After the Marathon: One Week Later | Marathons and Macarons says:
    November 9, 2014 at 2:56 pm

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I'm Jess Underhill, a certified run coach and freelance fitness writer. I experienced my first runner’s high when I was 13 and it had a profound impact on how I saw myself and this world. My mission in life is to help people chase down their personal bests and crush their goals so that they too, can change their perceptions. Read More…

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