Marathon Training Schedule Tips For Beginners

Finding the right marathon training schedule for a beginning runner is hardly a new problem. The LaSalle Chicago marathon, which is one of the world's largest at over 60,000 runners, usually has around 40% first time marathoners cross the starting line each fall.

For first timers, a marathon training schedule that creates confidence in your running ability is as essential as any other part of the program. A program that drags you out of bed while still sore from the previous day, will only hurt your confidence in your training. The marathon is an endurance event, and therefore has a huge mental aspect as well as physical. Pro-runner Ryan Hall gives the following race day advice about staying in the moment:

"Run the mile you're in: 'Focus on the moment. I avoid thinking about how far I have to go early in the race, because that can be overwhelming. Late in the race I try to forget about how far I have gone, because that would give me an excuse to give in to fatigue.'"

A marathon training schedule that focuses on the mental aspects, as well as the physical ones, is a sure-fire way to make sure you are prepared for race day. Figure out your best schedule with The Non-Runner's Marathon Trainer