Lots of people do not even think about competing in a marathon and for some it is quite scary. However, people need to know that not only those in shape can compete and complete the marathon. All people can participate. In order to do so a person needs to follow the training program for the marathon and not give up in the process. The will of the person must be strong.
Facts about a walking marathon
A real marathon is 26.2 miles long and mostly runners participate in it. On the other hand, there are also marathons and half-marathons that are being more and more popular for walkers. Not all marathons allow walkers to participate but a person can always ask.
First steps
First and foremost a person needs to see with his or her doctor whether he or she is eligible for the marathon. Walking for such a long time is not easy for the body, especially if the person is out of shape and that is why a person needs to consult the doctor first.
Once the doctor approved a person's participation, a person will need to get some good shoes and clothes. Shoes are important and a person should not try to save money there.
There is no need for blister-preventing socks while the person is still walking short distances. However, once he or she starts walking the long ones, a person should get better socks and always carry a blister tape. There are also lubricants for runners a person can use.
The last thing a person will need is a pedometer because he or she will need the know the passed distance.
How far is too far?
There are marathon training programs that even people out of shape can follow. The key is to start small and then gradually work up to longer distances. Lots of people take one day off during the week and one day during the weekend. That weekend walking day will later become a day when a person will walk a longer distance.
At the beginning a person should walk a mile on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and up to two miles on a Saturday. Thursday and Sunday should be rest days. This is a good example of how training should look in the beginning. Later, a person should walk up to 6 miles instead of one and 18 to 20 miles on a Saturday.
Avoiding injury
It is important that a person stays healthy during the training process and that a person increases the walks for 10% every week. If a person feels physical discomfort, he or she should walk less and go talk to a doctor if it sticks. Stretching and warming up are essential in avoiding injury. Staying hydrated is important as well.
Two or three weeks before the marathon a person should reduce the amount of walks.
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