Thinking about running your first marathon or half marathon? Or looking for guidance on long distance endurance training? Questions about mileage, nutrition, strength training and more can become overwhelming. Loyola Medicine’s free, beginner-friendly guide can help you train smarter and approach race day with confidence.
Marathon training topics covered in this guide
Preparing for a marathon is about more than simply running longer distances. This guide provides expert guidance on:
Weekly mileage and long runs. Understand how training volume typically progresses throughout a marathon training cycle and why various kinds of running workouts play a critical role in building endurance.
Injury prevention tips. Discover practical strategies that can help reduce the risk of common running injuries, including guidance on mileage progression, strength training and recovery.
Marathon nutrition and hydration. Learn the basics of fueling before, during and after long runs to support performance and recovery throughout your training.
Recovery strategies that support performance. Explore recovery techniques that help your body adapt to training, including hydration, post-run nutrition, mobility work and quality sleep.
Loyola Medicine supports athletes through every step
From injury prevention and performance optimization to recovery and rehabilitation, Loyola Medicine’s sports medicine and orthopaedic specialists are here to help you throughout your running journey. Whether you're a first-time marathoner, competitive athlete or dedicated weekend runner, our goal is to help you stay healthy, train effectively and feel ready on race day.
For female athletes, our women's sports medicine program provides specialized care to support the unique demands of training, competition and recovery.
Don’t skip your health check-up
Before starting any training plan, it’s important to schedule a routine physical, especially for adults over age 50. This checkup helps identify any underlying conditions that may be present, and ensures your body is ready for your first marathon. Schedule an appointment online with our primary care team at a location near you.