Running a marathon can be a great, exhilarating experience if you prepare for it the right way. You will have to go through the whole experience to fully appreciate it. There are many reasons why people run a marathon. Some do it for a noble cause. Some just have their spiritual and physical development in mind. Very few people on earth really finish a marathon. So, It is not going to be a cakewalk. But nothing worthwhile comes easy. You need anywhere from six months to an year of serious training to run a marathon. You can learn how to efficiently train for a marathon by following the instructions given below.
Complexity level: Moderate
Time required: 6-12 Months
Instructions:
1. Train considerably: Allocate enough time for training. It would be fine if you give yourself a training for at least six months. The amount of training one requires varies from person to person. Take your own time and do not train too much or too little. If you do not have proper training, you will end up harming your body and health. Get yourself a good coach and properly structure your training. Good training programs often help.
2. Structure your training program: Set a proper time frame for your training program and learn everything you should learn about training for a marathon. The time frame should be set according to the date of the next Marathon. Make yourself used to running throughout the training period. Condition yourself if you find it necessary.
3. Choose the proper equipments: You will run into problems if you do not choose the proper running equipments. Wear clothes which provide you comfort and protect you from injuries. Ensure that you have proper gears. It is better to have dry clothes. Wear a hat if it is too cold. Choose your clothes according to the weather. Clothes often improve your performance tremendously. Go to a shoes store and pick which suits you based on the characteristics. Replace your shoes in time and use matching socks with your shoes.
4. Protecting yourself from bodily problems: Use the appropriate running form when you train to improve your results and shelter yourself from injuries. Take necessary drugs and ensure that your body gets enough blood circulation. Do not undergo training when you feel pain. Most people face injuries as they attempt to accomplish too much in a limited time. Remember that Rome was not built in a day. If you suffer from significant injuries or bodily problems, take some time off from training.
5. Taking nutritious food: The food you take in can have a significant effect on your performance. Have food which contains enough carbohydrates. Look for fruits, vegetables and cereals which are rich in carbohydrates. Drink sports drinks which will sustain your energy throughout the training period. Eat good food before and after the training. Do not drink too much water, but make sure that you take in enough water you need to perform at your peak.
6. Staying focused: You should maintain the focus, passion and motivation in the six months period you undergo training. Always have the end goal in your mind and picture yourself achieving it. If you believe in God, praying might help you stay calm and focused. Do not indulge in thoughts which are negative. Always believe that you will make it if you put in your best. Never forget your goal during the training period. Success do not come to people who waver from their goals.
Frequently asked questions:
1. How long should I sleep when I train?
Have a good sleep daily. Ten hours of sleep is ideal when you train.
2. How should I deal with stomach issues?
Do not eat heavy food before running. It is better to have light snacks before you go to run.
Quick tips:
You can do strength exercises like sit ups and push ups to make yourself stronger.
Things to watch out for:
Do not eat fatty food as you run the risk of having gastrointestinal diseases.