Get ready to run the race of your lifeMarathons in the U.S. have seen record increases in participation during the past few years. Running a Marathon For Dummies helps aspiring marathon runners prepare to successfully complete their first race, and shows experienced runners how to take their game to the next level. Get ready to run the race of your life Marathons in the U.S. have seen record increases in participation during the past few years. Running a Marathon For Dummies helps aspiring marathon runners prepare to successfully complete their first race, and shows experienced runners how to take their game to the next level. Introduction 1 Part I: The Basics of Running a Marathon 7 Chapter 1: Training for the Big Race: An Overview 9 Chapter 2: Getting a Leg Up with the Right Running Gear 25 Chapter 3: Understanding the Physiology of Marathon Running 37 Chapter 4: Starting Off with Proper Running Technique 59 Part II: Creating Your Own Marathon Training Plan 73 Chapter 5: Aerobic Training: The King of Marathon Preparation 75 Chapter 6: Running Longer, and Longer, and Longer Still 97 Chapter 7: Getting Faster with Interval Training 109 Chapter 8: Making a Plan as a Beginner Runner 121 Chapter 9: Prepping for Your Next Race as an Intermediate Runner 133 Chapter 10: Pushing Yourself as an Advanced Runner 153 Part III: Going Above and Beyond to Stay Strong and Healthy 173 Chapter 11: Producing Powerful Muscles with Strength Training 175 Chapter 12: Stretching, Cross-Training, and Recovery during Training 211 Chapter 13: Recognizing (And Avoiding) Common Running Injuries 235 Part IV: Gearing Up for Race Day (And Beyond) 257 Chapter 14: Backing Off Before You Give Your All: The Marathon Taper 259 Chapter 15: Getting a Boost with Practical and Motivational Pre-Race Strategies 267 Chapter 16: Running the Marathon: Race Strategies and Tips 277 Part V: The Part of Tens 291 Chapter 17: Ten Things to Do on Marathon Race Day 293 Chapter 18: Running Amok: Ten Common Training Errors 299 Chapter 19: Ten (Or So) Great Destination Marathons 305 Chapter 20: Ten (Okay, Eleven) Frequently Asked Questions about Running a Marathon 313 Appendix: A Marathon Directory 321 Index 329