I currently class myself as a "casual runner", I can run 10k and am relatively fit (cycle everyday to work etc.) but would like to do the Flora Marathon.
Firstly, how long do I need to train to be able to finish a half-marathon (I believe you have to have one of these under your belt first), and then how long to be able to finish a marathon comfortably (I'm not aiming for a brilliant time, just want to enjoy it).
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Id only really done a 10k before mine, though did maybe 12 miles in training
Apparently 16 weeks i=s long enough
See you there !
Zoe
Zoe,
They do have a "Get You Round Group" which aims for around 5 hours in the FLM. I know - they overtook me last year!
Full details can be found on WWW.LDWA.ORG.UK
Events are held every weekend and all over the country
Didn't do a great deal of running Oct-Dec then got rejected in ballot and went for golden bond place.
Started loosely following RW training schedules in January (which include a half marathon in around Feb/Mar)and successfully completed FLM in 4.58.01 AND enjoyed it.
I was training three to four days per week, mostly steady runs, no fancy speed work or anything, just 4-5 miles three times per week and one steadily increasing long run.
I read that if you can do 10miles by Christmas you can be ready for FLM in April.
Go for it and enjoy. Hope to see you there.
Oh and by the way, you'll get massive support on this forum which I suspect will get increasingly busy from December onwards!
You can do it!
Are there any running clubs near you,can be a big help on those long runs at the weekend.Best of luck, you can do it.
i ran my first marathon a year after starting running, and the longest run i'd done before it was only about 14 or 15 miles.....i got quite an ok time and all i had at the end were sore knees and orange feet! you'll have to get used to eating and drinking whilst out training, and also get mentally used to the idea of how far it is....
I always point out that 80+ year olds & people with one-leg manage it when they say they could never do it.
My big toenail is now an attractive shade of blue
Now I'm confused. I ran the FLM in '01: Fluffa got orange feet and benz got blue toes. I feel like I'm missing out - I had none of this.....
Long easy runs are very important for M's and I started these by finding a country route and jogging, and walking when tired. Gradually I found myself running and rarely walking. Every time I get comfortable with the distance and see some time improvement I add a couple of miles on and may have to walk up the odd hill until my body adapts to the distance.
Ideally it is best to be able to run a half m in one go before doing a full m. It is necessary to do these long runs most weeks but not necessary to race along, just pace yourself and enjoy running without thinking of distance or time until you progress.
Another way to try a marathon is to do a LDWA event which are in most counties and attract mainly walkers. I would advice a run/walk approach which will give experience of x country marathons without the racing. The countryside may have a few hills but it is far more interesting than roads. And walking up hills fast is the same heartwise as running slowly on a road. Long Distance Walkers Assoc. that is.
Karen - how are you getting on?