18 Week Marathon Training Cycle | 55-70 Miles Per Week + Strength Training

Built for athletes who are looking to take their training to the next level. This plan is built around 6 days of running with long runs on Sunday, and a full recovery day on Monday. Built out of here is a steady amount of mileage that most athletes need 3+ years of marathon training under their belt to feel comfortable with. Significant speed work and threshold hold work will turn you into an aerobic marathon monster.

Created by USATF Level 2 Endurance Coach and Athlete Andrew Simmons. This plan is built on the knowledge gained from years of coaching, and 10+ years as an amateur elite runner (36+ Marathon or longer distance race finishes). Andrew has a passion for coaching that is evident in not only his personal performances but in the success his athletes see on race day.

This plan delivers an 18 week training schedule that will have you training 8-10+ hours per week to build towards a goal marathon. Each week follows a familiar pattern with recovery running days balancing your workout days. This plan follows a 4 week periodization with a down week or recovery week every 4th week. This recovery week accompanies a shift in the training to increase mileage and intensity so it’s well timed. This plan has produced numerous sub 3:00 finishes and is best for athletes who enjoy mileage and aren’t necessarily needing 2 threshold workouts every week to feel satiated. This plan can be set to start on any Monday and will run for 18 Weeks.

Strength Training in this plan is focused on building a storng powerful lowerbody. This is rooted in a focused power and functional strength program. The strength days are combined with your off days and one of your lighted days to keep you motivated and doing active recovery on days after big runs. As you approach the racing season built into this plan, strength tapers off so you can feel fresh and prepared to do your best! This is an excellent way to facilitate recovery without taking on the pounding of running!

Before you jump in you should be able to complete:

You can find us on the web at lifelongendurance.com or email Coach Andrew directly at :andrew@lifelongendurance.com