Ready. Set. Marathon. Running Library:

Marathon Training

Is heat or ice better for long run recovery?

Is heat or ice better for long run recovery?

There is no other feeling quite like that of finishing a long run each week. I personally choose to complete mine on Saturday mornings with a rest day on Sunday. This means I can look forward to a relaxing weekend after all of my hard work. Plus the accomplishment I feel of bumping up those miles each week gets me jazzed knowing that I'm that much closer to achieving my marathon goal. And you know what's reminding me that...

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Why Marathon Runners Get Black Toenails and How to Prevent Them

Why Marathon Runners Get Black Toenails and How to Prevent Them

Marathon runners experience a lot of positive effects both mentally and physically, such as a better mood, healthy heart, and toned physique. But marathon running is often far from glamorous. As much as you feel like showing off those tanned and toned legs, sometimes you're just as eager to keep your feet covered up. Callouses, for one, are a sure bet. But when your toenail starts turning black or when the toenail threatens...

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What is a Good Marathon Time?

What is a Good Marathon Time?

One negative side effect of running can be getting caught up in the comparison trap. In a world of in your face social media, this has become even more difficult to avoid. Instead of focusing on being grateful for what we are able to do, comparison can make us feel like our personal accomplishments aren't enough. But sometimes in timed events such as a marathon, making comparisons or having an idea of an average can also...

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Can anyone run a marathon?

Can anyone run a marathon?

The truth is that the majority of the population finds the thought of running 26.2 miles impossible, but that's just not true. If running a marathon is something you want to achieve, you have the ability to make it happen. Almost any healthy and active person can run a marathon. Though it won't be easy, given the right training, mindset, and dedication, crossing the finish line of a marathon is possible. Sticking to plan is...

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Train Slower to Run a Faster Marathon

Train Slower to Run a Faster Marathon

I began running in 2001, and this is how I approached every single run. I would decide how far I was going to go, then lace up and head out the door to run the fastest pace I could hold for whatever particular distance I was doing. This type of training basically went on through my first two marathons and all the way until I started training for my 10-year return to the marathon distance. I'm sure somewhere along the way...

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Marathon Training Weight Gain: How can that be possible?!

Marathon Training Weight Gain: How can that be possible?!

When you consider all the benefits of exercise, weight-control or weight-loss often top the list. Even as we find better whys for our exercise such as happiness, reaching a goal, overall health, or becoming stronger...weight is still a big factor in why people exercise. People who sign up for marathons have many different reasons for doing so. Losing weight might be one of them. Gaining weight during marathon training, on...

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Marathons at Sea Level: Are they worth it?

Marathons at Sea Level: Are they worth it?

In my mid-20s, I ran my first two marathons. Even though as a Coloradoan I was training at altitude, I purposely chose marathons at sea level. My first was in Long Beach and my second was in Portland. I also had family connections to Portland but the fact that it was at sea level made it a lot easier for me to say yes. Marathons are daunting, am I right?! I'm up for a lot more challenges these days, but back then I felt like...

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The Carbo-Load: Why do marathon runners do this?

The Carbo-Load: Why do marathon runners do this?

I got into running because of my dad. We've run many races together and they will always be some of my favorite memories. What I also remember about my dad and all those races was how he always wanted to "carbo-load" the night before each of them. I certainly loved a good pasta, so who was I to argue? In fact, many races, including marathons, had a spaghetti dinner you could sign up for as part of the race package. Nutrition...

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What is the hardest mile of a marathon?

What is the hardest mile of a marathon?

When you make the decision to run a marathon, you know it's going to be tough. It's quite possibly one of the hardest things you will ever put yourself through. It is the culminating event in which you showcase months of hard work, test your mental will, and find out if your training was enough. Though you're excited for what's to come, it's only natural that self-doubt starts to creep in as the race draws closer. Being...

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Can I train for a marathon on a treadmill? Advantages and Disadvantages

Can I train for a marathon on a treadmill? Advantages and Disadvantages

Marathon runners are usually divided into two camps when it comes to treadmills. Some fall into the "can't live without it" category while others avoid it at all costs. Where most of them agree, however, is that outdoor running is a necessary component in marathon training. But, what if taking your runs outdoors just isn't really possible? Or, perhaps you just feel most comfortable on your treadmill and would choose it over...

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Marathon Running Tips & Tricks

New videos posted weekends. Perfect for watching while prepping or recovering from your long run!