Jump Start YourMarathon & Half Marathon Training

Spring break has come and gone and for those who plan on running a marathon or half marathon this fall or winter it is not too early to get things into motion. In Flight Running starts our official group training program on May 31st for fall marathoners (New York, Chicago, DC Marine Corps, Niagara Falls, San Antonio Rock n Roll, Honolulu, Dallas etc.) and on June 28th for the Houston Marathon & Half Marathon. Between now and the start of the marathon training season there are a few things you need to do now to get in the marathon mindset, reduce your risk of injury and start building a solid running base. Here is quick list of things you need to do now:

Pick A Race & Register Today!
Take a look at the race calendar, pick a goal race or races and register! I mean put your money where your mouth and your legs are and plunk down your hard earned cash. Our favorite resource for races is marathonguide.com who lists marathons and half marathon in the US and Internationally in chronological order. Many popular races like Chicago are already reaching capacity. Others like New York and DC Marine Corps use a lottery system to determine who gets in. Registration for The Houston Marathon and Half Marathon opens on April 1st so mark your calendar & register. Houston increased their cap by 1,000 from 17,000 to 18,000 but we are predicting another sell out. Don't get shut out like some of our runners have in the past by waiting until the last minute to sign up.

Join In Flight Running or Another Training Group In Your Area
We would love to have you on board with In Flight this year if you are in the Greater Houston Area. If you are reading this from the other side of the country or the world then find a good group training program in your area. Training with a group is essential for first-timers. Group training gives you professional coaching, built in accountability and comaraderie with others who share your crazy goal of reaching the finish line.

Broadcast Your Goal to Everyone You Know!
If you are a first-timer, tell the whole world that you plan on running a marathon or half marathon. They may think you are crazy but the act of sharing your big goal will set your motivational gears into action.

Start Running Now!
Buy a new pair of running shoes and start running low-mileage, base-building runs of 2-3 miles, 3 to 4 times per week. If you are real rusty start building a base by alternating periods of walking and running until you can stomach running 2-3 miles without stopping. You should be able to comfortably run 3-5 miles continuosly before starting your official training season in May or June.

Build Strength & Power: Lift Weights
Now is the time to build overall strength by lifting weights and strengthening your core body (trunk muscles). Get at least 2, overall body workouts in each week using a 2 set routine of 12-17 reps per set to failure. Allow 2 days of recovery between weight training workouts. Don't make the mistake that most runners make and leave out the leg muscles. Getting your body and legs strong now will help fend off nagging injuries during your training as weekly mileage builds.

Visualize Victory: The Finish Line
Picture yourself crossing the finish line of your big race every day. This moment of glory will come to pass with hard work, perserverance and a hungry heart.

God Speed
Realize that your body was meant to do great things. God has given you an incredible machine to help you achieve greatness in your own life. Train hard...God Speed and we will see you at the finish line!