Training to Walk a Marathon

Is there a difference in how walkers and runners train for the marathon? Not from the standpoint of mileage put in per training session. Like runners, you need to build a base of walking and from there progress to increasing mileage each week, finally tapering before the marathon.

Consistency in your training is essential to completing the marathon in good shape and preventing injury. You may choose to train on your own, with a group of friends, or join a club or group specifically training for the marathon.

Training works on the level of the local muscle, building the numbers of mitochondria - the energy-producing organelles of the muscle cells, and the number of capillaries which bring oxygenated blood to the muscles and removes toxic byproducts. For the marathon, you want to train your muscles for aerobic and endurance work, not the explosive work of weight lifting. Training also builds your heart and lung capacity, allowing you to get oxygenated blood efficiently through your muscles and tissues.

Your first step in training is to get the right shoes.

Next page: > Marathon Shoes

Training Courses by Email

19-Week Marathon Training Course
16-Week Half-Marathon Training Course

Marathon Walking Lessons

• Marathon History
• Why is a Mrathon so Tough?
• Marathon Walk Training
• Shoes for the Marathon
• Walking Form
• Base Mileage
• Marathon Mileage-Building Schedule
• Half-Marathon Training Schedule
• Marathon Coaching
• Charity Marathon Walking Programs
• Strategy for Walking a Marathon
• Nutrition for Marathon Training
• Fluids - What to Drink When Training and on the Marathon
• Energy Snacks
• Clothing for the Marathon
• Blisters and Chafing
• Marathon Race Day
• Pacing
• Nature Calls
• The Finish
• Choosing a Marathon Event
• Marathon Calendars
• Marathon Reviews
• Reader Tips
• Submit a Tip
• Marathon Cards
• Marathon Clip Art

  Related Resources

• Before You Register for a Walking Marathon
• Book: "The Complete Guide to Marathon Walking"