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Marathon: Beginner + Beginner S&C: 17 weeks: 3 runs per week

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Marathon: Beginner + Beginner S&C: 17 weeks: 3 runs per week

Includes Structured Workouts

Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.


Learn More about Structured Workouts.

Author

Martha Urwin

All plans by this Coach

Length

17 Weeks

Includes Structured Workouts

Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.


Learn More about Structured Workouts.

Plan Description

This plan is ideal if you have a year or more running experience behind you but have not yet run a marathon, or haven't run one for a few years. It is suited to those who don't have very much time to train or who want to limit their running days for other reasons.

Most weeks of the plan include 3 runs and 2 S&C sessions. It assumes an existing weekly mileage of at least around 14 miles and a recent long run of at least 10 miles.

This plan will help you to build up your running speed, endurance and technique through structured sessions targeted towards a marathon race goal. It is aimed towards a finish feeling strong and injury-free rather than a set time.

It also includes a beginner strength and conditioning (S&C) programme which is designed to introduce you to S&C and get you into the habit of regular S&C training. These sessions can mostly be carried out at home with a few pieces of equipment if you don't have access to a gym. If you have gym access then you will be able to progress more by adding weight at a safe rate as you become stronger. Useful home equipment is a set of dumbbells, some resistance bands and, ideally, a plyometric box or other solid, stable box or large step of a similar height.

This plan assumes that you are physically fit and there are no medical or other reasons that mean you should not be running or carrying out strength work.

The run intensity targets are mostly expressed with reference to threshold heart rate, but alternative Rate of Perceived Effort (RPE) targets are given in the notes for some runs.

The plan includes lots of detail and explanation to help you understand and get the most from it. It is 'stand alone', so you don't get any additional feedback/ communication from me. However, you can opt to join the private RWM WhatsApp group for the duration of your plan, where you can ask questions, chat with other runners and access resources such as exercise demonstration videos. Send me a message on Training Peaks, email or WhatsApp +44 7457 404886 if you'd like to be added. Alternatively, if you would prefer individual coaching or a personalised plan with feedback then please head to the services page on my website at runwithmartha.com for details of what I can offer.

How it Works

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Training Plan Sample Week

Stats

Average Weekly Breakdown

Workouts Weekly Average Longest Workout
Run x3
03:11:00 03:20:00
Day Off x2
—— ——
Strength x2
01:17:00 00:45:00
Workouts Per Week Weekly Average Longest Workout
Run
03:11:00 03:20:00
Day Off
—— ——
Strength
01:17:00 00:45:00

Training Load By Week


This plan works best with the following fitness devices:

Martha Urwin

Martha Urwin Run Coaching

I am an England Athletics coach and UESCA ultrarunning coach, specialising in ultrarunning. I plan your training in a way that works for you based on your goals, experience and lifestyle. I give lots of feedback and constantly monitor your progress. I also provide a personalised strength programme to address weaknesses and build running-specific strength. I host an active WhatsApp community for support and advice and produce training resources to enhance your knowledge and skills.


  • 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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