Last week we reviewed a suggested half-marathon training program, so it’s only fair that we take a look at the whole enchilada this week.

Training for a fall marathon during the hot, humid Louisiana summer season is difficult at best. It’s easy to over-train and end up feeling tired and worn-out on race day. Discretion is the better part of valor during the summer and I recommend taking a “less is more” approach to training volume. Focus on quality rather than quantity.

The schedule below is designed for individuals new to the marathon distance. As with any suggested schedule, how you distribute your weekday runs is totally up to you. The weekend long run is the key workout. This program starts off with a long run of six miles and gradually works up to a single 20-mile run about three weeks before the actual race. Even for competitive athletes, I’m a firm believer in limiting the number of 18+ mile training sessions and loading up on more of the intermediate long runs, i.e., 12 – 15 miles.

For those of you targeting a fall marathon even, now’s the time to start planning.  Best of luck and enjoy the ride.

Questions?  E-mail Fred Klinge at fred@symmetrytraining.com