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Marathon Training for the Busy

We all have that one friend we secretly believe must not sleep because how else could they possibly work full-time, volunteer, stay in amazing shape through marathon training and do it all with style?

Sure, they may have super powers, but it’s much more likely they’re getting a full night of sleep because they know it’s crucial to helping them perform their best at everything they do.Marathon Training for real peopleSo if you also want to become a superhero who manages to run every day, here are five more ways to make sure your workouts happen:

1. Dedicate time and make a daily commitment.

Maybe you love the idea of running a marathon, but your current work and family obligations already have you feeling frenzied. Instead of overbooking yourself and insisting you register for a race, plan a training schedule and juggle other responsibilities, be honest with yourself and only commit to things you can truly give 100% to. If you don’t, it’s a surefire way to find yourself skipping out on runs.

If you aren’t ready to commit to the training schedule, don’t beat yourself up — just readjust your current plan. Maybe you can squeeze in enough workouts to train for a 5 or 10K. Even though these are shorter races, having a more attainable goal will keep you committed to daily runs, and you can use these to build up to a marathon when you do have the time.

Want to Train for a Marathon? Think You're Too Busy? A must read Click To Tweet

2. Plan to win.

There’s a reason the quote, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail” is so popular … because it’s true. Similarly to the first thing on this list, if you don’t take the time to plan and commit to a daily run, chances are you won’t do it. This goes beyond having a training plan; make sure to take additional steps to head off any obstacles:

  • Keep a gym bag in your car or at your desk with running clothes so you’re always ready.
  • Know your travel/weekend schedule and shift workouts to accommodate other plans if something comes up.
  • Schedule time with friends when it won’t impede getting your run done (but do schedule it!).

3. Savor your rest days.

If you’re one of the dedicated runners who feels a rest day is simply a waste of good energy, remember you can actually use this day to do other things and think of it as a reset for the following week. It’s time for your body to heal, to plan your training and meals, and treat yourself to some well-earned relaxation.

If you just can’t sit still, why not try a non-running way to get your body moving? Maybe spend some time hiking, paddle boarding or going on a bike ride. Days when you aren’t training give you more time to enjoy free time with other people whose support ultimately makes you a stronger runner.

4. Have an accountability partner.

Being part of a running group can make your runs more interesting, encourage you to push your pace and get you more involved in the entire running community. But having a single running partner can be even more beneficial. Imagining them standing on a corner as the sun rises, waiting for you to appear is the ultimate way to make sure you don’t hit snooze a second time.

5. Embrace morning runs.

I know half of you groaned just reading this tip, but it’s true. The busier your life, the easier it is to skip a run later in the day. There are the rare few who will always run, even if the only time they have to spare is late at night, but if you tell yourself you’ll run after work and then don’t, it’s time to embrace the morning.

Studies show that morning runners are more productive and make healthier choices throughout the rest of the day. I think it’s the endorphins, but maybe it’s just because they’ve started their day by enjoying the world before everyone has woken up and the noise of life has truly begun.

If after all of this you still can’t seem to make yourself run, I’d say it’s time to consider you’ve hit burn out. Explore some new activities and once the urge to run sneaks up on you again, grab it by the laces and go.

BONUS TOOL
Too busy to even read these tips?? Go listen to Monica’s Podcast on fitting in all the workouts when you’re super busy with her guest an ultrarunner!!!

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Comments

  1. SuzLyfe says

    Was literally just about to say HIRE A RUNNING COACH and then you took the words out of my mouth! There is a reason that we are around, lol. I specialize in creating helping those with difficult schedules and those coming back from injury get to the finish line happy and healthy. If you are busy, that is the perfect time to engage a coach!
    My recent post NOW Foods Immersion and EPIC Giveaway!

  2. wendy says

    The other thing I want to add (as one of the super busy who has trained for multiple marathons) is to consider quality miles over quantity–find a training plan that supports that mission. There's no way I could have done huge mileage with my work schedule. My coach (yes, that is the key) gave me a great training plan that never exceeded 35 miles per week. There was a lot of cross training in there as well. You can do it!
    My recent post Getting My Head Back in the Game

    • RunToTheFinish says

      hehe, a lot of us started out feeling that way. So have no fear if you ever wanted to try again I could help you learn to…not despise it :)

  5. mapsley says

    I'm an early bird. I go to bed about 9:00PM, but my alarm is set for 4:30AM, earlier if necessary. Running is part of who I am, and I'll make time for it not matter what. I've not worked closely with a running coach. I've had a couple plans designed specifically for me by a friend and coach but never with a coach I've "hired".
    My recent post Ready or Not, Summer Is Here!

  7. Becki says

    Oh man, the morning runs thing is where I've always struggled. I much prefer evening runs (and they fit in my schedule so much better). I love these tips, especially savoring rest days!
    My recent post Rape Culture is a Problem

  9. Hollie says

    Just thinking about running a marathon completely stresses me out. Sometimes I feel too busy to even consider it. I think planning it out though is a great idea. I always find if I make a schedule, I tend to stick with it better! Great post!

  10. sinfulnutrition says

    Such great tips! I've been taking a break from running lately, but going right after work always helped me get a run in. Or else there was no turning back once the sweatpants were on!

  14. xtinaluvspink says

    Definitely stick to the plan and treat every run like the most important appointment of your day & week. I deny friends' invites for going out, dinner with my bf, watching various sports games, and much more just to make sure I get in my run. It's fun to see who ends up being supportive & in awe of your commitment, and conversely who tries to derail you from your plan.

  17. Jordan says

    I've wanted to do a half marathon for a while now and I think planning it out is a GREAT idea. I also agree with embracing morning runs. It makes you feel great the rest of the day and is a good way to avoid the heat when it starts getting hot in the afternoons. Thanks for sharing this post, I really enjoyed it!
    My recent post Tackling the Dreaded Weight Loss Plateau

  19. Lucie says

    Love these tips! Especially the morning running resonates a lot. It's just so empowering to get it off the list first things in the morning

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Website written, managed and maintained by Amanda Brooks. I am a certified personal trainer, but any advice should be taken as general information and not a personalized plan. All opinions, tips and reviews are based upon my personal life experience and the experiences of those around me. View my full privacy and review policy.