Preparing For A Marathon

Participating in a marathon, arguably the toughest race on earth, is a unique experience. Running and finishing a marathon is a great achievement any runner would be proud of.

The marathon’s official distance is 42.195 km (26.385 miles). The race is named after the town of Marathon in ancient Greece. According to legend, a Greek soldier named Pheidippides ran 40 km from the town of Marathon to Athens to bring news of the outcome of the Battle of Marathon, where the Greeks defeated the invading Persian army. After announcing the news of the Greek victory, Pheidippides collapsed and died.

Running the marathon not only tests your endurance and fitness; it also gauges your will and mental health as well. Most participants run in a marathon not with the lofty goal of winning because finishing the race is a feat in itself. Beating their previous fastest time would be a plus.

Whatever your reasons are for running, it is highly advised that you undergo the necessary training to avoid injuries. Here are five tips to help you start your marathon training (Please note that you should consult a doctor first before training for your own safety):

Do an extensive research before proceeding with your training. If you know someone who has ran a marathon before, ask him/her for tips and advice. It is also best to consult your doctor to find out if you are fit to run.

Invest on quality equipment, especially running shoes. Running on old shoes with worn out soles will definitely get you in trouble. Shop around and talk to experienced salespeople and make sure to give your new shoes a test-run before you make the purchase. A wristwatch with a stopwatch will also prove useful.

Dress properly according to the weather and climate. Apply sunscreen before running to protect yourself from over exposure to the sun.

If you feel an injury coming while training, it is best to stop and rest for a day or two. You might not make it to the marathon if you overexert yourself.

Keep a training journal to help you track your progress. It may also help to note your injuries. Plan your next steps ahead and make sure to stick with your training program.