When it comes to training for a marathon there’s no simple, easy formulation. To train for a marathon, which is a 26.2 mile run, you need to consider the life changes you’ll have to make. From what you eat to the time sacrifices you’ll need to make, there’s a lot to consider. Although it may appear to be a daunting task, a marathon is also a tremendous accomplishment that only 1% of the population can say they’ve done.

To those who have experienced it, a marathon is one of the most rewarding experiences in life. Not only do you get the opportunity to accomplish a physical feat that most dream of but you also get to help worthy causes that could change people’s lives. Whether you’re running for a particular cause or just to scratch it off your bucket list, it’s a life changing event. Although one of the most grueling running events out there, the way you’ll feel after is worth the training you’ll endure.

Before you begin your training regimen, it’s best to visit your doctor first. A marathon training program can be tolling on your body. Don’t go into it blindsided, unaware of any potential knee or even heart conditions. When it comes to running 26.2 miles, it’s best to be safe than sorry.

Want something to inspire and keep you motivated? Set a goal by getting marathon-ready in time for one of the Nation's top ten marathons:

1. Boston Marathon, April 19th
2. New York City Marathon, November 7th
3. Honolulu Marathon, December 12th
4. Chicago Marathon, October 10th
5. Walt Disney World Marathon, March 6th
6. Rock n' Roll Marathon, June 6th
7. Maui Marathon, September 19th
8. Marine Corps Marathon, May 16th
9. Grandma's Marathon, June 19th
10. St. George Marathon, April 1st

Once you’ve gotten the okay from your doctor, it’s time to pick out the proper footwear for training. Keep in mind that the running shoes you choose for your training sessions should not be the shoes you run in for the marathon. Depending on the length of your training, you will wear out you shoes leaving them unsupported when it comes time for the big run.

When trying on shoes, be sure to run in them a little bit. You don’t want to try on a pair at the store and take them home to run only to find they’re uncomfortable. A good tip for choosing the right shoes is to look at the insole of your existing shoes. Where does it look like you place the most pressure? Is the top or the heel more worn? Be sure to bring your insole with you to show the salesman. It’ll be an essential indicator to illustrate where you will need the most support. Once you’ve gotten the proper footwear and attire, it’s time to start training. There are a few keys to running a successful marathon: stay motivated, train smart and safe, and maintain proper nutrition.http://www.marathonrookie.com/

The first essential part is often the most difficult. Staying motivated requires a high level of will power and self control. If you’re weary about whether or not you can handle the strain but still want to get out there and try, then run with a group of friends or a local running group. In doing so, you’ll stay motivated because you’ll be placed on a set schedule you must abide to keep up with the team. Or, set a weekly schedule every Sunday night that you’ll tell yourself you must keep. Treat it like a business appointment that can’t be rescheduled.

How many miles you need to run a week will depend on your personal physical level. If you’re unsure what will work for you, it’s best to consult a professional runner or personal trainer. Oftentimes, you’ll find they’ll put you on a schedule that combines long distance runs, short distance runs, and other recreational activities to keep you from burning out. For instance, one day you’ll be required to run fourteen to fifteen miles and the next day take a spinning class followed by a yoga class. Whatever regimen you end up choosing, prepare yourself for running anywhere between sixty to seventy miles a week. You’ll never want to run 26.2 miles while training for a marathon. You’ll exhaust your body before the big day even arrives. At most, your longest run should be 20 miles. http://www.marathonrookie.com/marathon-training.html

Keep up with non-running activities as well, such as spinning, yoga, and Pilates. These forms of exercises will shock your muscles while helping to aid the injury prevention process. Plus, it will add something new to your workout so you won’t feel bored as easily.

Above all, it’s extremely important to keep up with your nutrition. Eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, fiber, and carbohydrates. Your body will need a lot more carbohydrates that usual to sustain the amount of energy you’re burning. Some ideal high-carbohydrate foods include apricots, bananas, yogurt, milk, kidney beans, apples, and pears.http://www.thedietchannel.com/Marathon-Training-and-Nutrition-Fueling-for-Long-Runs.htm

Post recovery is the most important factor when training for a marathon. How you treat and care for your body after the run is over can be the deciding factor on how you will perform on the day of the run. Stretching will keep you from developing an injury that could cost you your marathon race. Stretching your muscles will keep them lose and flexible. In doing so, you’ll avoid tightness, soreness, and injuries. Invest in stretching tools, such as resistance bands and rollers. These tools will help you move your muscles even farther thus resulting in a better outcome.

Another great product to alleviate muscle tension is Epsom salt. After your shorter runs, fill your bathtub with hot water and Epsom salt. Sit in the tub for at least fifteen to twenty minutes to allow it to sink in. On the flip side, longer runs will require a more cooling effect needed for your muscles. Much like a visit to the dentist, runners tend to dread the freezing ice bath. It’s extremely beneficial to help alleviate the build-up of lactic acid. Fill your tub with lukewarm water, get into the tub (clothing optional), and have someone pour the ice over your body. Stay in the tub for fifteen to twenty minutes then get out. Avoid a steaming hot water rinse right after as it will defeat the purpose.

Only 1% of the world’s population can say they’ve completed a marathon. If you train correctly, you can be added to that small ratio. Don’t give up; the reward is worth the months of training ahead of you. It all begins with one step, so lace up those running shoes and start your journey today.