Marathon Training Tips

So you’re signed up and ready to run your first marathon. Or maybe, you are a seasoned marathon athlete. Either way, you know it’s a challenge to get fit and get ready for a big event. Here are some helpful tips that expert marathon runners suggest you follow:

• Train consistently.

Many expert marathoners will say the key to staying in shape and ready for a marathon is to keep your training and weight consistent. It is very important to train and stay in shape all year round, as if a marathon were right around the corner. If you slack off for part of the year and only start training before the big event, it will be a lot more of a challenge to get in shape in time. Eat healthy, work out and keep yourself in shape all year round. It’s easier on your body as there won’t be as many fluctuations in your eating habits or workout regimens. Your body won’t go through the shock that it otherwise would.

• Run fewer marathons.

While this might seem to be the opposite of what you should do, especially considering we just told you to stay in shape throughout the whole year, you should limit your marathon competitions to one per year. Don’t tire your body out by doing too much. If you stay in shape throughout the year and give your all in only one event a year, your efforts will go a lot farther.

• Work those muscles.

As we age, we lose muscle mass. And this can take a toll on your body as a runner. Make sure to keep up with your conditioning routines and not just focus on endurance. You need strong muscles to keep your body going and to lessen the wear and tear on your body from the continuous pounding that comes from running.

• Stay hydrated all the time.

And not just when working out. Make sure you eat healthy and drink plenty of water or nutrition drinks to keep your body going strong.