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What's Your Goal?
Published June 2nd, 2011
Each year, more than half a million Americans finish a marathon. Some embrace the 26.2 to kick smoking or sloth. Others use it to mark major life milestones like turning 40. Many train for marathons just to find out if they have the grit and discipline to go the distance.
Preparing for that distance isn't easy. Getting through more than 100 days of training requires heart, hard work, and commitment. The Runner's World Challenge has helped more than 2,000 runners realize their long-distance dreams by guiding them through that preparation. By tailoring training to meet their needs, we've helped couch potatoes become Boston qualifiers, witnessed hundred-pound weight losses, and watched glorious breakthroughs that were many frustrating years in the making.
In the following pages, leading experts advise seven runners in the Runner's World Challenge on how to achieve their very different marathon goals. Let their stories inspire you to take up your own 26.2 challenge--and gain the confidence and fitness that will endure long after you cross the finish line.
WHAT'S YOUR GOAL? FINISH MY FIRST 26.2
Most newcomers, like Steve Schaffer, are intimidated by running 26.2 miles. It's natural to be overwhelmed, but once you break the race down, it's very achievable. Here's what newbies need to know.
WHAT'S YOUR GOAL? AVOID INJURY
Injury-prone runners like Katie Livingood can successfully run 26.2. But they must do plenty of strength-and cross-training and do the least amount of running for the greatest gains. Learn how to modify any training plan to sidestep injury.
WHAT'S YOUR GOAL? GET TO BOSTON
Qualifying for Boston, as Benjamin David aims to do, takes total dedication, seamless training, and ideal conditions. See a sample week from David's training plan.
WHAT'S YOUR GOAL? RUN/WALK A PR
It may sound counterintuitive, but walking more can make you a better runner. Just ask Ian Kitley, who used a run/walk strategy for his second marathon and finished in 2:53:27. Learn how a quick break can lead you to faster times, speedy recovery, and fewer injuries.
WHAT'S YOUR GOAL? LOSE WEIGHT
Running scorches calories, yet many marathoners like Cristiana Barkhouse find that as their mileage increases, so does their weight. Here's why it's hard to lose weight when training to run 26.2 miles.
• Get a three-day meal plan that will help you trim down—and run strong.
WHAT'S YOUR GOAL? RUN AFTER CANCER
Cancer is a bump in the road; jump over it and keep running like Paulette Stone. The priority is to keep living, and running is part of your life. Get tips from oncologists who understand miles.
