Can you run a marathon?
*spits out margarita*
I apologize, did I come on too strong? The summer solstice just gifted us more heat and perhaps you’re casually reading this poolside with a cocktail {I love that for you}. Then here I come – like some errant fly landing in your drink.
While I may have unintentionally interrupted your enjoyment of your favorite bev, I assure you I am not here to ruin your fun. I am currently training for my first ever marathon, and I want to empower you to be brave with me.
Why are we talking about this now?
This conversation starts in the summer because I need every available week to train between now and January 19 {the Chevron Houston Marathon}. And if you’re a self-taught hobbyist runner like me, reawakening pre-kid passions and goals like the big M, it’s time you start thinking about training too.
This article is the first in a series geared toward beginner runners interested in a marathon – including training, race registration, running trails, shoes and gadgets, motivation, hydration, nutrition, safety, skincare, cross-training, stretching, and mobility – based on a combination of extensive research and personal experience going from 0.0 to 26.2 in real time.
In other words – we have a lot of ground to cover, so let’s get back to my question.
Can you Run a Marathon?
If you don’t know the answer today, don’t worry – I don’t either. But if you can run, you can likely run a marathon with enough time and training. Before you begin training, use this Pre-Marathon Training Checkpoint to evaluate your current HEALTH, FITNESS, TIME, and COMMITMENT levels to determine a realistic marathon training timeline.
HEALTH: Are you medically cleared to run – a lot?
Motivation to run a marathon is crucial. Moreso than that, is medical clearance. Please check with your doctor before beginning a new training program. None of the information in this and related articles should supersede the advice of your doctor.
FITNESS: Do you have a base layer of physical fitness?
Have you run 5Ks, 10Ks, or half marathons in the past? Can you run 15+ miles per week? If yes, training for a marathon is a realistic next step. If not, don’t feel discouraged! Focus on building this layer first {with a doctor’s OK} before adding longer distance runs.
TIME: Do you have enough time to train? Consider both:
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- The time remaining until the marathon. Check the date of your desired marathon while being mindful of your current fitness level. Adept runners – regularly running distances of 6+ miles – likely need 12-20 weeks to train. If you’re like me and need 30+ weeks, you start training yesterday. And if you first need to build that base layer, add another 8-12 weeks on top of that.
- Your personal schedule. Training requires hours of your undivided attention each week. Kids? Will need to be otherwise engaged. Saucy TV series binges? Will need to be enjoyed later. And the summer heat? Limits outdoor runs to early mornings or evenings. Find a sample training schedule online or through an app and consider your personal calendar. Can you consistently carve out enough time for training every week?
COMMITMENT: Will you take training seriously?
While Forrest Gump-ing a marathon is a strategy, the safest path to the Finish Line is one that properly trains your body and mind. Most training plans consist of 5 active days and 2 rest days each week. Will you prioritize your training every single day – even on vacations and holidays?
TRAIN! Let’s find a program!
If you said a hard Yes to all the above – congratulations! You’re in a good place to find your marathon and your training program!
Marathons and Half Marathons in the Greater Houston Area
The following is a list of upcoming marathons in the greater Houston area with confirmed dates. Please check individual websites for course details, registration fees, rules, qualifying times, and deadlines. Some registration fees increase over time.
12/08/2024 | Baylor Scott & White Marathon | Bryan/College Station, TX
01/01/2025 | Texas Marathon | Kingwood, TX
01/19/2025 | Chevron Houston Marathon | Houston, TX
02/02/2025 | USA Fit Marathon | Sugar Land, TX
02/09/2025 | Galveston Mardi Gras Marathon | Galveston, TX
02/22/2025 | Surfside Beach Marathon | Surfside Beach, TX
03/01/2025 | The Woodlands Marathon | The Woodlands, TX
Training Programs & Tips
For self-led solo runners, there are several free and paid training programs available online and in apps. Find a training program based on your current level of fitness and your goals. {I am a huge Hal Higdon fan and currently following this 30-week training program.} Align the schedule with your target marathon date.
Don’t want a solo mission? Look for a coach or a running club in your area to help you train and keep you honest.
Let the training begin.
Once you have your chosen program and schedule, the only thing left to do is start following it! For beginner runners building their base level of fitness: hold off on registering for your marathon until you are consistently running 15-25 miles per week. Be open to selecting a later race if it seems like you need a bit more time to train. {Watch for registration deadlines and fee increases.}
What does training look like 6+ months before a marathon?
It will look a little different for different skill levels, but generally includes running, cross-training, strengthening, mobility, and rest. Beginners focusing on building a base layer of fitness may average about 10 miles per week for several weeks before adding more distance. Do not worry about speed at this time. The goal is covering the prescribed distances of your training program, even if you need to walk at times. Tips specific to cross-training and mobility will come in a later article.
Can you train on a treadmill?
In short, yes. But limit treadmill runs to shorter distances. Your body will need to get used to the elements and the asphalt.
Training on vacation.
If your training schedule overlaps with your summer vacation, you really have two options: Train. Or don’t. If you take 3-4 days off during your first weeks of training, you may feel sluggish when you return, but are likely to recover with consistent effort. If you plan to train while on vacation {my preference}, set yourself up for success with these 4 tips.
Next Steps
The “next steps” are the literal steps of your individual training plan. Take care of your mind and body, stay hydrated, and stay cool. I am rooting for you, and I look forward to continuing this conversation over the next several months, covering the enormous amount of ground between 0.0 and 26.2 miles.
