Question:
I've been running off and on for the past 5 years. For the past 6 mnths
I've been running about 30 miles per week with a 10 mile long run. I'd
like to start training for a marathon, but there are so many books and
plans out there, that it's hard for me to pick one that is right for
me. Any suggestions?
Answer:Some here don't like it, but I suggest Galloway's program. But almost
any plan with a goal time "to finish" has enough leeway build in to get
you through it. I just liked the fact that Galloway's program has you
going the distance in training, before the actual event. IMHO, that
makes sense.
But just pick one that you feel confident of following. No plan is best
if you do not follow it.
First, when are you planning to race ? Too late to prepare for a fall race
but January is OK, and a spring race (March or so) would give you plenty of
time.
Given your current mileage, the race will be mostly about survival. With that
in mind, your strategy should consist mostly of getting in a number of long
runs, and getting comfortable with 40 miles a week. You should be able to
hit a peak of around 50.
Wouldn't worry too much about speedwork. A tempo run or a fartlek run, or a
race (but don't race every week!) is OK, but the focus should really be on the
long runs. Would highly recommend running a half marathon race 3-5 weeks out.
Here's the official NYC marathon training program:
http://www.nyrrc.org/nyrrc/mar01/training/program.html
Here's the schedule:
http://www.nyrrc.org/nyrrc/mar01/training/schedules.html#competitive
I think the "competitive marathoner" schedule does look about right for
you since you're already comfortable with 30 miles per week, so don't be
intimidated by the "competitive" label.
