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When to start training
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24 week plan
16 week plan
Start now or later?
Intermediate, Advanced???
Decisions, decisions........too many choices.......
When is the best time to start training and avoid over training?
Is there a magic formula that will take into account how many days you currently run, the distance you run per week and current pace.
I don't want to peak to early but would also like to maximise my training.
My thoughts at the moment are to increase from 4 days running per week (includes long run on Sunday) to 6 days per week before January. Then start a 16 week program to match my pace.
I currently run between 10-12 miles on Sunday at between 9:00 to 9:40 min/mile pace the other 3 runs are between 4 and 6 miles.
What would be a realsitic target time?
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I wouldn't go mad too soon. You've got a good base going so keep with that, throw in a few speed sessions and start on a 16wk schedule when the time comes. As far as realistic time, compare expectations with what half/10k times you have. Race time predictor on here is pretty good tho if it's your first marathon, make sure you enjoy it too
Happy training 
Don't forget to include rest days in your training.
I'm also training for my first marathon as as much as the mileage and the long runs and ntervals are important, letting your bosy and muscles recover is also equally important.
back home now - so here you go mcmillan race calculator
careful if you are in the office as there is some music that plays on the opening page!
Always leave Mondays for recovery after long run.
The race calculator is fantastic Thank you
It suggests I could achieve a 3:51 marathon.
I normally set myself challenging targets and I am thinking my overall weekly mileage will have increased by January so my thinking is:- if I follow a 3:30 training plan I should get below 4:00 anything better will be a bonus!
Is this too optimistic?
When are you going to start training?