Running a Marathon

I've always been active, but haven't really focused on running as an activity until the last 3 years. I've done a handful of 5 and 10ks, 4 half marathons, 1 full marathons, and 2 team relays in that time. I'm training for a full marathon at the end of April. The 1st marathon that I did was actually my 2nd race ever. I started training in Dec I think when I could only run 3 miles and built up from there using Hal Higdon's plan (google it) for a race at the end of May. For me, I didn't have enough of a base before I took on that 1st marathon, my joints just weren't used to running that much and I could never get past 16 miles in training. I ran what I could and walked the rest, I've never felt more spectacular and felt so much pain at the same time! lol

My advice: Find out your current mile pace. Find a training program online for beginner's like Hal Higdon or runner's world. Determine how much time it would take for your long runs and weekly training runs. Can you fit that into your schedule? You'll build mileage, but you will end up needing 3+ hours of free time once a week for long runs and at least 3 shorter runs during the week. If you have the time, find a buddy to run with or a local running group for support. There's a lot to learn from more experienced runners and your mind can turn to thoughts of self-sabotage pretty easily during those long hours on the road alone. Many full marathons have half marathons as well and hopefully that's the case for the run you are considering. Sign up, and do your best at training for the full. If you get injured, can't keep up with the training plan, or just plain don't want to run that far then bump down to the shorter distance. It's a great goal and you'll feel AMAZING when you cross the finish line! Good luck!