Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why doesn’t this training program go up to 26.2 miles (marathon distance)?
A. It is widely accepted that one does not have to run 26 miles before the actual race. For beginner marathoners especially, there is too much chance of injury in do many very long runs.Q. What’s a taper?
A. A taper is the period (usually 2-3 weeks) right before the marathon, in which you start backing off your mileage and intensity. People tend to get "taper-crazy" because it is an emotionally trying time (although physically much easier than the past few months). It may seem nonsensical to "quit" training before the race, but it is a very important step in training and needs to be followed.Q. What should I do for a taper?
A. Instead of your Mon, Wed, Fri 4 mile runs, you should do easy 2 miles, or even take a rest. For your long run, do no more than 5 miles and no less than 3 miles. Make your rest/walk days rest days only.Q. Must I run the whole way or is walking okay too?
A. Walking part (or all) of a marathon is totally acceptable. My suggestion, especially for older (aged) runners or new (to running) runners, is to find a set run/walk ratio that works for you during training and stick to it during the marathon. This can be as easy as run 1/walk 1 or more difficult, like run 10/walk 1. A good goal to set is to try running 5/1 (run 5 minutes, walk 1 minute). This is a nice in-between ratio. Some people may find it better for them to walk more or less though, so be ready to test out several ratios and see what works best for your body. If you feel that you should walk the whole marathon, here is the page for you.Q. On the Rest/Walk days, should I rest or walk?
A. This is up to you and how your body feels. Whatever you do, don't force yourself to walk or crosstrain. If you are unsure, rest is best. However, if you want to walk on these days and it isn't doing you any harm, make sure you are taking nice slow strolls. If you don't want to walk, but you don't need the rest, yoga or swimming are also good choices for these days. However, it's not advisable to start a new sport in addition to a marathon training schedule, so only pick something that was already a part of your fitness routine. Remember, rest is best!Q. I have another question; how can I reach you to ask?
A. Feel free to ask me questions through email. Or, for many opinions and a quicker response time, try the forums. Don't be afraid; we are all very nice and many of us have been through what you are experiencing!
