-
Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
How long does it take to train for a marathon?
Related Topic
How many months should I set aside in order to train for a marathon? What about a half marathon? -
Find a professional to answer your question
Find a professional to answer your question Search Now
-
1
Thanks
John Toomey
Exercise Physiologist, Personal Trainer
I'm a down to earth practising (and fully accredited) Exercise Physiologist based in Esperance, WA. I have been a practising EP since 2004. I've been … View Profile
It depends. Not the answer you were looking for perhaps! If you're already a regular social runner then perhaps minimum 3 months to simply ‘make the distance’. If you're not a runner then longer. Exactly the same for a half marathon - although to do both distances well a long enough period to progressively increase your tolerance to continuous long runs is necessary. i.e. gradual increases in distance and volume with unloading periods too to allow recovery and super-compensation.
I've had people who were athletic in the past who have got through marathons / halfs quite well on minimal training - but those few starting from scratch and slightly over-weight etc have similarly got through 30k or so of the marathon before gritting their teeth and walk-jog combo-ing to finish. Obviously for a better chance of success I'd love to have 6-months to properly program someone's training for a marathon. Maybe 16-weeks for a half.Report this post
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post. to your account or now (it's free).
You may also like these related questions
-
What are the best exercises to tighten the lower abdominal region?
I have recently improved my eating habits and increased my exercise and have lost 8kg. Whilst I am eating better I now need to work on reducing my portion sizes and snacking so I can bring the exerci… -
How can I loose 2kg -3kg in a month and keep it off?
-
Why do l feel incredibly tired at midday?
