Running and cycling can enable you to ask less of others and more of yourself. Learn how to get started, and about some of my experiences below.
Your First Marathon: Training and Event Tips
My Events and Finish Times
Your First Marathon: Training and Event Tips
- Many argue that endurance running is one of the few activities that humans are optimally evolved for, and anyone of reasonable health can finish and should consider doing the marathon. Men and women in their 60s have lapped me in mile 20 and beyond. The benefits can positively affect mental, physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your life.
- Allow for at least 6 months of training in advance of the event. Preparation is the difference between a wonderful race day and a miserable one.
- Determine a feasible weekly mileage goal for your first week, and plan to build up to 35 mi per week 2 weeks prior to the event. Hal Higdon method is one of the more popular and worked for me.
- A healthy weight makes a huge difference in how your body will respond to training and your overall performance. I lost 60 lbs before my first event, and credit exercise and calorie counting through apps like MyFitnessPal. Ceasing from drinking calories also made a huge difference.
- Plan to cross train with any other activity such as weight lifting, swimming or cycling. Leg press and/or squats can strengthen key muscle groups and prevent injuries.
My Events and Finish Times
Gear
- Distance: Brooks GTS 14
- Sprint: Nike Flyknit Lunar 3
- App: Strava
- Bike: Specialized Tarmac