Training and Racing
By Christine Luff, About.com Guide to Running & Jogging
Many runners participate in races, from 5Ks to marathons. Get race training schedules, plus tips on how to run your best races and stay motivated to keep training.
Training Schedules
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, here are training schedules for races of all distances.
- Train for Your First 5K
- E-Course: Run Your First 5K
- Advanced Beginner 5K Training Schedule
- Intermediate 5K Training Schedule
- Advanced 5K Training Schedule
- Video: How to Prep for a 5K Race
- Run Your First 10K
- Advanced Beginner 10K Training Schedule
- Intermediate 10K Training Schedule
- Beginner Half-Marathon Training Schedule
- Advanced Beginner Half-Marathon Training Schedule
- Intermediate Half-Marathon Training Schedule
- Beginner Marathon Training Schedule
- Advanced Beginner Marathon Training Schedule
Racing and Training Tips
Get tips and strategies for race training and running your best.
- Common Racing Mistakes to Avoid
- Road Race Etiquette Tips
- Race Day Tips for Your First Road Race
- How to Take Water from Hydration Stops
- How to Deal With Crowds at Races
- How to Increase Your Distance
- Tips for Running Faster
- How to Predict Your Race Times
- Why Do I Feel Sluggish During My Runs?
- How to Run Hills
- Tips for Managing Pre-Race Jitters and Performance Anxiety
Stretching
Stretching is the key to helping runners stay flexible and injury-free.
- Video: Stretches for Runners
- Tips for Proper Stretching
- Should I Stretch Before or After I Run?
- Head to Toe Running Stretches
- Calf Stretch for Runners
- Hamstring Stretch for Runners
- Hip Flexor Stretch for Runners
- Quad Stretch for Runners
Speed Workouts
Adding speed workouts to your running routine can help you become a stronger, faster runner.
Strength-Training
Including strength-training as part of your weekly workouts can help you get stronger and avoid running injuries.
Marathon Training Advice
Running a marathon is an exciting and challenging endeavor. Use these tips and advice to successfully complete the 26.2-mile race.
- Run Your First Marathon
- Tips to Make Your Long Runs Easier
- How to Run a Faster Marathon
- Basic Marathon Training Gear
- What to Eat and Drink Before Your Long Runs
- How to Take a Post-Long Run Ice Bath
- Why Am I Gaining Weight During Marathon Training?
- Get Mentally Prepared for Your Marathon
- How to Taper Before a Marathon
- What to Do the Day Before Your Marathon
- Marathon Packing List
- Marathon Recovery Tips
Staying Motivated
Getting inspired to run can be a challenge to runners of any level. Find out how you can get and stay motivated to keep running.
