Help--I want to do a full marathon

[elsie3]

I want to run a full marathon next May. I would love advice on books/training programs, tips, pointers, time lines . . . anything you've got. Especially helpful would be advice on how to incorporate Cathe workouts (particularly weight training) into my training plan.

I've never raced before, but I'm doing the 7 mile leg of a relay this May. The longest distance I've run is 15 miles. I usually run 10 miles. I'm just completing the STS Strength/Cardio rotation this week. I want to start planning now for next year to get myself ready.

Thanks,

 

[RunninTeach]

Hi Elsie,

Here is some information to get you started:

Info & Training Plans
http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/Mar00index.htm

http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/marathon.html

http://runnersworld.com/subtopic/0,7123,s6-238-244-255-0,00.html

Books
Marathon: You Can Do It! (Galloway)
http://www.amazon.com/Marathon-You-...=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1272738512&sr=8-6

Marathoning for Mortals (John Bingham & Jenny Hadfield)
http://www.amazon.com/Marathoning-M...=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1272738555&sr=8-4

A must-see documentary
Spirit of the Marathon
http://www.amazon.com/Spirit-Marath...ef=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1272738593&sr=8-1

Most training plans are 16 weeks, but there are a variety of plans out there, some even going all the way up to 30 weeks (designed for true beginners to running). You can absolutely still lift and cross-train; however, I did drop the legwork in the latter half of training because where I run I hit hills all the time and felt my legs were getting worked plenty.

HTH! Good luck! It is a great and empowering life experience!