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What are the Best Tips for Marathon Running?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

Marathon running is not for every athlete. It is designed for runners who wish to test the extent of their ability, push their bodies beyond simple treadmills and trail runs. Marathon running can be an extremely rewarding physical challenge, but it does carry several health risks. By preparing properly for a marathon, you can improve your chances of a successful, injury free run. Proper preparation for a marathon begins weeks or even months before the race.

If you are not currently an avid runner, set a marathon as your long-term goal and work up to it with shorter racers. While nearly every physically capable person can train themselves to have the endurance and strength to run a marathon, don’t expect to be running one tomorrow. Five kilometer (3.1 miles) races are a good place to start, once you are able to easily run that much on a regular basis.

Long-distance runners pay attention to their heart rate while they exercise.
Long-distance runners pay attention to their heart rate while they exercise.

Before beginning your training regimen, some experts recommend undergoing a full physical with a doctor. Tell your doctor of your marathon plans and ask them to make sure you are in sound muscular and cardiovascular shape. Marathons are supposed to improve your health, not aggravate medical conditions; do not attempt to run a marathon or train for one against a doctor’s orders.

Work up to marathons by running shorter races first.
Work up to marathons by running shorter races first.

Purchase quality marathon running gear, such as shoes and breathable running clothes. Remember, the most expensive gear is not necessarily the best. Many websites offer running shoe guides with extensive editorial and user reviews. Wearing the proper shoes may correct running imperfections, improve your performance, and most importantly, prevent injury.

Many runners feel that the most important training to do before a marathon is mental, rather than physical.
Many runners feel that the most important training to do before a marathon is mental, rather than physical.

If your marathon running training regimen includes outdoor runs, be sure to take basic safety precautions each time you set out on a run. Carry identification, a cell phone, and plenty of water in case of an emergency. If you run with headphones, be certain to pay careful attention to traffic and take headphones off before crossing any streets. You may also want to run with a friend if you will be going through unknown or unsafe areas; at the very least, make sure one other person knows your route and when you will be running.

Hydration is an important part of staying healthy while training.
Hydration is an important part of staying healthy while training.

Many runners believe that the most important training you can do for a marathon is mental rather than physical. In order to get through a grueling training program and race, you must have clear and specific goals for yourself and a support system to help you get through it. Include friends and family in your running life as much as possible; even if they can’t run the race themselves, knowing they will be cheering at the finish may push you through a lot of miles.

People who enjoy running often like participating in running events, like marathons.
People who enjoy running often like participating in running events, like marathons.

Set goals that are reasonable and achievable for you. Chances are, you are not an Olympic marathon runner, so do not expect to reach comparable times. By setting goals you can achieve, you avoid the frustration of failure. Moreover, while a marathon is meant to push you, pushing yourself too hard can result in injury and take you out of the race completely.

For a marathon, it's best to carry more water than you think you'll need and continue hydrating after the race or training session.
For a marathon, it's best to carry more water than you think you'll need and continue hydrating after the race or training session.

According to experts, one of the biggest rookie mistakes is underestimating the amount of water you need to drink. Dehydration is a serious problem in marathon running, one that can land you in the hospital if you are not careful. Be sure to carry more water than you think you will need and remember to keep hydrating after your race or training session.

Listening to music can help pass the time while running in a marathon.
Listening to music can help pass the time while running in a marathon.

On race day, do not let excitement get the better of you. Eat what you normally eat before training, do not decide to switch running shoes on the day of the race, and try to get enough sleep the night before. When your race starts, keep to your own pace and resist the urge to run faster than usual; you are likely filled with adrenaline that may quickly burn out and leave you on the side of the road long before the finish line.

During a marathon it's important to set a pace and not allow yourself to run faster than usual.
During a marathon it's important to set a pace and not allow yourself to run faster than usual.

Once you finish your race, celebrate the way you deserve! You have pushed your body to a level most people will never achieve, and have put in every hour of hard work necessary to make it to the end. Be careful of celebrating with too much alcohol the night after the race; while you may be ready to party, your body probably would appreciate a nice long rest. Take a few days off if necessary, and then start training for your next challenge.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a Sports&Hobbies writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a Sports&Hobbies writer.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Sporkasia

When you are running long distances, staying relaxed and comfortable is vital. During a marathon run, you don't want any sudden bursts of energy that might drain your energy and decrease your chances of finishing the race.

For me, getting to the point that I could run 10 miles took a great deal of effort. Once I crashed through the 10-mile wall, I was able to continue increasing my distance at a steady rate until I reached marathon distance.

Drentel

I couldn't agree more with the portion of the article that talks about how runners believe running a marathon is more about mental training than physical training. I certainly believe this is true.

I have always been in good condition and played a lot of sports growing up. I ran cross country in high school, which for us meant three mile races. The farthest distance I remember running at one time is five miles. After completing the five miles, I could have run farther. I wasn't tired and my body wasn't hurting, but I wanted to stop. Mentally, I could not stay focused and continue putting one foot in front of the other.

I have a great deal of respect for anyone who can run 26 miles and 385 yards, which, if I recall correctly, is slightly more than 42 kilometers.

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    • Long-distance runners pay attention to their heart rate while they exercise.
      By: Maridav
      Long-distance runners pay attention to their heart rate while they exercise.
    • Work up to marathons by running shorter races first.
      By: Monkey Business
      Work up to marathons by running shorter races first.
    • Many runners feel that the most important training to do before a marathon is mental, rather than physical.
      By: Maridav
      Many runners feel that the most important training to do before a marathon is mental, rather than physical.
    • Hydration is an important part of staying healthy while training.
      By: anyaivanova
      Hydration is an important part of staying healthy while training.
    • People who enjoy running often like participating in running events, like marathons.
      By: Deklofenak
      People who enjoy running often like participating in running events, like marathons.
    • For a marathon, it's best to carry more water than you think you'll need and continue hydrating after the race or training session.
      By: Goran Bogicevic
      For a marathon, it's best to carry more water than you think you'll need and continue hydrating after the race or training session.
    • Listening to music can help pass the time while running in a marathon.
      By: Maridav
      Listening to music can help pass the time while running in a marathon.
    • During a marathon it's important to set a pace and not allow yourself to run faster than usual.
      By: Monkey Business
      During a marathon it's important to set a pace and not allow yourself to run faster than usual.