Full Marathon Running Plan (Novice) + Email Access to Coach: 16 Weeks
Full Marathon Running Plan (Novice) + Email Access to Coach: 16 Weeks
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
Learn More about Structured Workouts.
Length
16 Weeks
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
Learn More about Structured Workouts.
Plan Description

Theo Bierman’s Full Marathon Plan (16 Weeks – Novice)
A complete 16-week plan for beginner runners tackling their first marathon. Whether you’re looking to finish strong or conquer a personal goal, this structured plan will help you get there with confidence.
Is This Plan for You?
You’re new to marathon running but ready for the challenge. You can currently run at least 5km continuously. You want a clear, proven pace-based plan that takes you to the start line healthy, prepared, and confident — no fluff, just progression.
What You’ll Get
- Pace-based structured runs with purpose and progression.
- Weekly long runs that build safely toward race day.
- Mobility and strength guidance for injury prevention and durability.
- Recovery-focused layout to avoid burnout or overtraining.
- Email access to Coach Theo for check-ins or support (optional, no pressure).
- Zero guesswork — just clarity, consistency, and confidence.
Strength Notes
Strength training is an essential component of this marathon plan. You’ll find strength sessions included in your weekly schedule to help build durability, reduce injury risk, and improve overall performance. These workouts are designed to complement your running, not compete with it — meaning they focus on movement quality, stability, and functional strength.
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Athlete Feedback

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Let’s Go!
This isn’t just about running a marathon — it’s about doing something hard and finishing well. With faith, structure, and belief in your corner, your journey starts now.
How it Works
Quickly view upcoming workouts in the TrainingPeaks app.
Upload completed workouts from your favorite tracking app or device.
Get feedback, stay on top of your training and perform at your best.
Training Plan Sample Week
Stats
Average Weekly Breakdown
| Workouts | Weekly Average | Longest Workout |
|---|---|---|
|
Run
x4
|
23mi | 22mi |
|
Strength
x2
|
01:20:00 | 01:00:00 |
|
Day Off
x1
|
—— | —— |
| Workouts Per Week | Weekly Average | Longest Workout | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
23mi | 22mi | |
|
|
01:20:00 | 01:00:00 | |
|
|
—— | —— |
Training Load By Week
This plan works best with the following fitness devices:
- This plan includes a Free Basic TrainingPeaks Account.
- Access your training plan anywhere on the TrainingPeaks mobile and desktop apps.
- Track your performance with robust data tracking and detailed graphs.
- Plan for your event in the TrainingPeaks calendar.
- Track your weight, sleep, hours, fatigue and stress while you train.
- Completed workouts sync with popular apps like Garmin and Wahoo. Learn More
- If plan includes Structured Workouts, then planned workouts sync to compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time. Learn More
Refund Policy
This plan is protected by our Refund Policy and may, with the author's approval, be exchanged for a plan of equal value from the same author.
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Premium unlocks smarter training with advanced analytics, TrainingPeaks Virtual, and Structured Strength to give you deeper insights and data-backed results.
$101.24 USD for the first year, billed yearly.
Bundle Premium—
Save 20%
Premium unlocks smarter training with advanced analytics, TrainingPeaks Virtual, and Structured Strength to give you deeper insights and data-backed results.
$107.99 USD for the first year, billed yearly.
