So, you’re running the first marathon of your life any time soon and looking for the do’s and don’ts to get started running? Running a marathon is not as easy as the winners’ smiling selfies show. Running long distances is undoubtedly a tedious task and many who take to running do not even complete half of it. So how can you run without facing the embarrassment of turning back halfway? The only answer is to train to run big. Training is the way to go to run this 26.2-mile endurance race. If you don’t train, you’ve already proven yourself a bad runner.

It is a known fact that running well also for long distances cannot come abruptly. There are many among us who have started running every Sunday and abandoned the idea within a few weeks because we couldn’t cope with the physical challenges that the sport brings. A quick glance at the runners after a couple of miles into the race can give you a runner from a beginner. I am listing some tips that can help you avoid some basic mistakes that most runners fall into and help you cover all areas related to training and racing.

start running

As I told you, preparation for a marathon begins long before the actual race, so get your shoes out and start running. If you want to run a full marathon successfully, you should at least train to run a half in your training cycle. It’s true that you can start running casually and then run a full-blown marathon after a few months, but the CAN should not be the SHOULD. You must train professionally for the marathon, although many people have run marathons simply by preparing with small jogs, but there is no guarantee that it will work for you as well.

Marathons are all about endurance, and that doesn’t mean every marathoner won’t face injury. Even successful participants can face injuries, but those who start running without training can face much worse. Your probability of hitting injuries is too nasty. Yes, you heard right. Without training, participants are at a very high risk of injury.

You should start training a minimum of 4 months before the actual race if you are not used to any form of physical training. You should start running as much as you can at a downhill speed of 5 miles in an hour to start with. You should slowly be running 20-25 miles each week for a minimum of 3 months. If you can do this, you’ve covered half your journey. This training is very important for your body to adapt to the needs of the race. Your body may ask you to stop at first, but soon it will not only get stronger but also give you a much better experience.

Get the perfect team

Before you even think about running, think about the equipment that will help you run. Undoubtedly, the footwear you wear should be the biggest consideration to start training and also the race itself. Your feet are not like the tires on your car that can be replaced, but they are your gift from God – treat them well.

Getting the perfect pair of running shoes can be an expensive affair, but if things go wrong with a cheaper pair, the costs involved in keeping your body upright can be much higher. And why not apply the learning of the famous English proverb, “Prevention is better than cure”. You would certainly need other things and you can buy something that is simply descending without the need to buy the most modern and expensive things out there. You would need shorts, caps, t-shirts, water bottles, etc.

Determine your goals

Everyone must keep the crossing of the finish line as their hand and the most important goal. Aiming for more than this might not be the right idea for first-time runners. They will only end up worrying if they think about the weather and other things, which would be too big a task. Remember, things come slowly; Rome was not built in a day!

Forge a strong training plan

Sit down with an expert coach and dial in your plan. Alternatively, you can go and use the free plans available on the internet. The Nike+ plan is a good plan to consider. Depending on your lifestyle, time, and habits, you should be able to determine a unique plan that you could effectively put into practice.

Get a running buddy

It is more than likely that if you run you will only fail the task. He may be overwhelmed with the stresses involved in the training process, especially if he’s completely new to running. Having a good, strong, motivated partner as a partner is a great thing. They will practice together and motivate each other to do their best in the race. However, if you can find more people to join you, then that’s just awesome. Your motivation and determination will flourish with each session with your team.