Whether you are an aspiring marathoner or a veteran runner, there are some things that you can do to improve your performance. The following tips will help you to train smarter, which will help you perform better.
TIP 1: SET GOALS AND STICK TO THEM
Setting goals is the first step in becoming a successful marathoner. These goals should be easy to achieve and challenging enough to keep you moving forward. Goals can range from finishing the race to running a certain time. Whatever your goals may be, it is important for you to write them down. By writing them down, you have a clear picture of what these goals are and it helps you stay on track in order to meet them.
TIP 2: FIND A COACH OR RUNNING GROUP
If you have never run a marathon before, a running coach or group is your best bet for success. Having someone tell you what to do instead of trying to figure it out on your own is much more efficient. However, if you don’t want the help of someone else, then find your own way to success. There are plenty of ways in which to find training schedules online that can be tailored specifically for you and your needs as a runner.
TIP 3: Set a marathon schedule
The first thing you do when you train for a marathon is to set your schedule. You don’t need to be a world-class athlete to run one, but you do need to plan out your training and stick to it. Start with the advice below if you’re preparing for your first marathon.
Treadmill or cinder? Most people who are new to running choose treadmills over outdoor running because of their controls and their ability to allow you to control the incline and speed of your run. The only thing that can make treadmill running difficult is the fact that they are indoors and you may be tempted by other things in the house while trying to stay focused on your run. Make sure that you have a clear path from your car, through the front door, past all of the distractions, and straight into the gym where you can get started.
Setup a schedule that works for your schedule. When planning out your training schedule, make sure that it fits into your lifestyle. If you have very young children, then try planning out a time when they will be in bed at night so that if everything else in your life is going according to plan, then you will have plenty of time to get in your run before they wake up again in the morning.
TIP 4: Have the right attitude
The first marathon is a big accomplishment, but it’s not something to be feared. If you’re healthy, have a good base and practice smart training, you can run your best marathon.
The first step to winning your first marathon is believing that you can. And that belief has to start with an honest assessment of your own running history and previous achievements. Set reasonable expectations for yourself, and then work hard to achieve them. It’s not always about the fastest time; rather, it’s about finishing strong in the face of the challenge that lies before you: 26.2 miles of intense effort on race day.
If you haven’t run a lot of races, it can be hard to know what your potential is in the marathon distance. Here are some guidelines to help you set reasonable expectations for your first marathon:
Time frame: If you have been running consistently for fewer than three years, don’t expect a personal record in your first marathon. It takes time to build up the mileage needed for endurance events. Even if you’ve been running longer, if you don’t have a lot of marathon experience or any recent speedwork under your belt, don’t plan on a PR — at least not on race day. The more time you spend on your feet during training, the more prepared you will be.
So, there you have it—4 simple steps to help ensure that your first marathon is a successful one. Not only that, but these tips can be applied, not just to a marathon, but any race or exercise goal. So if you’re looking for an exciting new fitness challenge this year, consider signing up for that marathon. Even if you’ve never run more than 10 miles in your life.
