Follow the Training Plan

Training for a marathon is no small feat. It takes months of dedication and hard work to get your body ready to run 26.2 miles. But don’t let that deter you! The feeling of accomplishment and pride you’ll feel when you cross that finish line is unlike any other. If you’re thinking about taking on the challenge of training for a marathon, here are a few things you need to know.

1. Start Slow
   If you’re just starting out, don’t try to do too much too soon. Ease into your training by gradually increasing your mileage each week. And be sure to take rest days! Your body needs time to recover after long runs, so give yourself a day or two off each week.
2. Join a Group
   One of the best ways to stay motivated during training is to join a running group or find a training partner. Having someone to push you and hold you accountable will make the process a lot more enjoyable (and less daunting).
3. Invest in Good Shoes
   One of the most important pieces of gear for any runner is a good pair of running shoes. They need to be comfortable, fit well, and provide the right amount of support for your feet. It’s worth it to spend some time (and money) finding the perfect pair of shoes for you.
4. Set Some Goals
   Setting goals is important for any type of training, but it’s especially crucial when preparing for a marathon. Having tangible targets to reach will help keep you motivated throughout the process. And don’t forget to celebrate when you reach those milestones!
5. Be Prepared for Bad Runs
   There will be times during your training when you just don’t feel like running—and that’s okay! Everyone has bad runs from time to time. Just don’t let one bad run ruin your whole training plan. Get back on track and don’t let yourself get discouraged.
6. Stick with It
   The key to success in marathon training (or any type of training) is consistency. There will be days when you don’t feel like running, but it’s important to stick with your plan and not skip workouts if possible. The more consistent you are with your training, the better results you’ll see come race day.

You Can Do It!

Marathon training is no easy feat, but it’s definitely doable with some planning and preparation. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to crossing that finish line in no time!

Nutrition

If you’re running a marathon, Congratulations! You’ve already completed the hardest part which is training for the big day. Now it’s time to focus on the second hardest part: nutrition. Proper nutrition before, during, and after a marathon is key to running your best race. Here’s what you need to know.

Pre-Race Meal

What you eat before a marathon can make or break your race. You want to fuel your body with complex carbohydrates and some protein so you have energy to run but you don’t want to eat so much that you feel sluggish. A light pasta dish with lean protein like grilled chicken is a great option. And be sure to drink plenty of water; even being slightly dehydrated can affect your performance.

During the Race

It’s important to keep your energy levels up during a marathon, which means you need to refuel mid-race. Energy gels or chews are a popular choice because they’re easy to carry and consume on the go. Just be sure to test them out during your training runs first so you know how your stomach reacts. Some runners also like to carry water or an electrolyte drink like Gatorade to stay hydrated. Again, knowing what works for you is key; experiment during your training runs so you’re prepared come race day.

Post-Race Meal

After crossing the finish line, it’s important to replenish your glycogen stores by eating complex carbohydrates within 30 minutes of finishing. A banana or granola bar are good options if you don’t have access to real food right away. You should also drink plenty of fluids; aim for 16-24 ounces of water or sports drink per hour for the first 4 hours post-race. In the hours and days following a marathon, continue to eat complex carbs as well as lean protein and healthy fats to help repair your muscles.

Fuel Up!

Proper nutrition is key to running a successful marathon. Remember to eat complex carbs and protein before the race, small snacks or energy gels during the race, and complex carbs with protein in the hours after finishing. And stay hydrated throughout! By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to crossing that finish line feeling strong.

History of the Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon, having been run every year since 1897. It is also one of the most prestigious marathons, with qualifying standards that are among the toughest in the world. In order to even be eligible to register for the Boston Marathon, runners must meet certain qualifying standards.

Qualifying Times

The qualifying standards for the Boston Marathon are as follows:
You must meet the qualifying time for your age group on the day of the race.

All runners must meet the age requirement of 18 years or older on the date of the race in order to register. There is no maximum age limit for registration.

Please note that meeting the qualifying standards does not guarantee entry into the race as registration is still dependent on availability of space. Runners who have met the qualifying standards are given priority during registration.
Qualifying times are based on age and gender, and are displayed below:

18-34……………….3hrs 00min 00secs
35-39……………….3hrs 05min 00secs
40-44……………….3hrs 10min 00secs
45-49……………….3hrs 20min 00secs
50-54……………….3hrs 25min 00secs
55-59 ………………3hrs 35min 00secs
60-64 ………………3hrs 50min 00secs
65-69 ………………4hrs 05min 00secs
70-74 ………………..4hrs 20min 00secs
75-79 ………………..4hrs 35min 00secs
80+ …………………..4hrs 50min 00secs

Women’s Qualifying Times

Women may add 30 minutes from these times. If you cannot provide verifiable proof of meeting these standards when requested by race officials prior to or during race week, you will not be allowed to participate in the event.

Prestige of Running the Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon is one of the most prestigious marathons in the world with qualifying standards that are among the toughest to meet. Runners must have achieved a qualifying time at a certified marathon within a certain window depending on their age group. All runners must also be 18 years or older on race day. Meeting the qualifying standards does not guarantee entry into the race as registration is still dependent on availability of space. Runners who have met the qualifying standards are given priority during registration. For more information on certified marathons and verifying your qualifying time, please visit www.baa.org . Good luck!

Nutrition is Key

Nutrition is key for marathon runners. What you put into your body before, during, and after a run can make or break your performance. That’s why it’s important to fuel up with the best snacks for marathon runners.

1. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is a great snack for marathon runners because it’s easy to digest and packed with natural sugars and nutrients. Dates are especially beneficial because they contain potassium, which helps prevent cramping.

2. Banana with Peanut Butter
Bananas are rich in potassium and magnesium, two nutrients that are essential for marathon runners. Adding peanut butter to your banana will give you a boost of protein that will help your muscles recover post-race.

3. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help support gut health. Marathon runners need to pay extra attention to gut health because long-distance running can cause gastrointestinal issues.

4. Whole grain bread with honey
Whole grain bread is high in complex carbohydrates, which are essential for marathon runners because they provide sustained energy. The honey will give you a quick shot of energy from natural sugars.

5. Veggies and Hummus
Veggies like carrots, celery, and cucumbers are high in water content, which is essential for marathon runners because they lose a lot of water when they sweat during a race. The hummus is a great source of protein and healthy fats.

Fuel Up For Your Next Race

These are just a few of the best snacks for marathon runners. Remember that nutrition is key for peak performance, so fuel up with these healthy snacks before your next big race!

7 Best American Marathons

Running a marathon is an incredible accomplishment. It takes months of preparation and training to be able to complete 26.2 miles. If you are looking for a challenge and are considering running a marathon, you may be wondering which race to sign up for. Here are seven of the best marathons in the United States.

1. Boston Marathon
   The Boston Marathon is one of the most well-known marathons in the world. The course is famously hilly, which makes it a challenging race. The race takes place every year on Patriots’ Day, which is a holiday in Massachusetts. If you are interested in running the Boston Marathon, you will need to qualify by running another marathon within a certain time limit.
2. NYC Marathon
   The NYC Marathon is the largest marathon in the world. Over 50,000 runners participate in the race each year. The course winds its way through all five boroughs of New York City, so runners get to experience a little bit of everything that NYC has to offer. You do not need to qualify to run this marathon; anyone can sign up.
3. Chicago Marathon
   The Chicago Marathon is another large marathon with over 45,000 runners each year. The course is relatively flat, which makes it a good choice for runners who are looking to set a personal record. Like the NYC Marathon, anyone can sign up for the Chicago Marathon; you do not need to qualify.
4. Honolulu Marathon
   The Honolulu Marathon takes place in December and is one of the most popular marathons in Hawaii. The course starts and finishes at Diamond Head Crater and runs past some of Honolulu’s most iconic landmarks including Waikiki Beach and Pali Lookout. This is a popular race, so make sure to register early if you want to participate.
5. Marine Corps Marathon
   The Marine Corps Marathon is known as “The People’s Marathon” because it does not require participants to have a qualifying time like many other races do. Runners who complete this marathon receive a commemorative Marine Corps medal when they cross the finish line. This race takes place every October in Arlington, Virginia and has been nicknamed “National Mall Before or After Christmas.” If you are interested in running this race, make sure to register early as it typically fills up quickly.

6 & 7 Walt Disney World Marathon & Disneyland Half Marathon

Both of these races take place at Disney theme parks and are very popular among runners who are also Disney fans (or who have always wanted to run through Disneyland). The Walt Disney World Marathon takes place every January at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida while the Disneyland Half Marathon takes place every September at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. These races typically sell out quickly, so if you’re interested in running either one, make sure to register as soon as registration opens!

America is a Great Place For Your Next Marathon

There are many great marathons all across the United States that cater to different types of runners. Whether you’re looking for a flat course or one with hills, there’s sure to be a marathon out there for you! For runner who want a unique experience, there are also several themed marathons such as those at Walt Disney World and Disneyland that may be of interest. Whatever your preference, get out there and start training for your next big race!