Running your first marathon is an adventure that will never be forgotten. Standing in a sea of fellow runners on the day of the big race, you’ll most likely reflect on the months of sacrifice and training that led you there. Though there are hundreds of ways to train for a marathon, one thing is for certain, 26.2 miles is a very long way to run without a game-plan.
Whether you’re running for charity or testing your physical limits, here are a few tips to consider:
Work Your Way Up
A full marathon is something that should be taken seriously. Most professionals will recommend that you run on a regular basis for at least a year before attempting the grueling distance of a full-length marathon. You may also want to start by entering a 5k (3.1 miles) 10k (6.2 miles) or a half marathon (13.1 miles) before taking on the full 26.2. At the very least, you should be prepared to train for a few solid months if you plan to be successful.
Create Your Plan of Attack
Take advice from some experts in the field. Marathon training requires a lot more than just going out and running a few miles every day. A good training program, developed by the best in the business, will not only build strength and endurance, but also help reduce serious injuries. Once you have your plan in place, the most important thing is to stay committed. Mark your calendar, find an app with alerts for your smartphone, or get a training partner. But whatever you do, stay motivated and stay committed.
The Right Shoe Can Make All the Difference
With all the talk about mental preparations and specialty training programs, it’s easy to overlook the importance of choosing the right shoe. Analyzing your foot type and your foot strike is crucial when choosing a long-distance running shoe. Getting fitted properly by someone who is knowledgeable on the subject may sound extreme, but it could make the difference between finishing the race and walking the last 3 miles with an injury.
Eat Right
Healthy eating, whether you are training for a marathon or just running the daily race of life, is so important. Include a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as high protein meals. Don’t forget your That's it. Fruit Bar for healthy snacking between meals!
From the moment you enter your first major event to the time you cross the finish line, your life is sure to be filled with victories and doubt. By following these few simple words of wisdom, your race day should be a triumphant one. Regardless of how you finish, you will never forget your first marathon.
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