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From Zero to 26.2: A Beginner's Guide to Training for Your First Marathon

believeinyourself cardiofitness hydration injuryprevention marathontraining newrunner nutrition pacing runninggoals runningjourney runningtips strengthtraining trainingschedule Jan 22, 2023
run your first marathon

If you're a new runner and you're thinking about taking on the challenge of a marathon, congratulations! Running a marathon is a huge accomplishment and can be a very rewarding experience. However, it's also important to remember that training for a marathon is a significant undertaking and requires a lot of dedication and hard work.

The first step in preparing for a marathon is to set a training schedule. A typical marathon training schedule will last for 16-20 weeks and will include a combination of long runs, speed work, and recovery days. It's important to start with a schedule that is realistic for your current fitness level and to gradually increase the distance and intensity of your runs as you get closer to the race.

As a new runner, it's also important to focus on building a strong foundation of cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. This can be done by incorporating regular strength training and cross-training activities into your routine. Cross-training activities such as cycling, swimming, and yoga can help improve your overall fitness and reduce the risk of injury.

It's also important to pay attention to your nutrition and hydration during your training. Eating a healthy diet that is high in carbohydrates and protein will help fuel your runs and aid in recovery. And make sure to drink enough water and electrolyte-rich fluids to keep yourself hydrated.

Another important aspect of marathon training is learning how to pace yourself during the race. This means starting the race at a slower pace than you think you can maintain and gradually picking up the pace as you feel stronger. This will help you avoid hitting the "wall" and conserve energy for the final miles of the race.

Finally, remember to take care of your body. Listen to your body and take rest days when you need them. Treat yourself to a massage, stretching or other recovery methods after your long runs.

Most importantly, believe in yourself and enjoy the journey! Training for a marathon can be a challenging but also a fun and fulfilling experience. With the right mindset, training schedule, and support, you can successfully complete your first marathon.

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