Where to Start: Tips to Start Training for a (half or full) Marathon

So a great way to figure out how to start training for a (half or full) marathon is to run as part of a team. Team in Training  (TNT) is great because they provide you with a work out plan, tips, support, etc. Also if there is a local team in your area you have people to run with. I did the Flex training, which means all the support was via email/online but it was still very helpful.

There are also lots of local running groups. I know when I was living in Nashville there was a local team called East Nasty that has twice (maybe 3) a week runs and would also do events together. So if you're new in an area a running group is a great way to meet people. Also Fleet Feet stores will often support a local running group so if you're not sure where to start look up your local Fleet Feet store and give them a call and just ask. They also have some training guides on their website.

Another option is to find other training guides online. This is the route I took. Although I found TNT helpful I had already started a training plan before they had emailed their training schedule out so I decided to stick with the one I started. My dad's friend has helped women train for Ironman and she recommended and emailed me the training guide for Your 26.2. You can sign up for a free or upgrade to a paid membership. Either way there is a lot of helpful information on the site.

One important thing to consider with training is whether the schedule and work outs are based on some kind of science about how the body works/recovers. Most training plans should increase mileage over time and fairly slowly. With off days here and there. Also if the plan you chose does not specifically include core or strength training work outs make sure you do them on your own!! Your core especially is so important to being able to do long runs. My dad kept telling me that after mile 17-18 it was all about nutrition (fueling) and my core. The key is to find a training guide that wasn't just posted by some random person who has no idea what they are talking about.

Anyone else have helpful websites, teams they know of, or tips?? Is anyone reading the blog haha?