You’ve decided to run your first marathon, congratulations! However, you may be feeling uneasy at the prospects of running 26.2 miles, especially if you haven’t run that far at one time before. These tips for running a marathon successfully may be what you need to help you succeed.

Chances are you’ve probably already been running as a hobby or as a means of exercising. If this is the case, you know the dedication and time it takes to build up the endurance you need. If, however, you’ve never run much before, there is a lot you’ll want to learn.

First, before you begin training it is important to have your doctor check you out to ensure you’re healthy enough to complete a marathon. Keep them apprised of your plans to run a marathon. They’ll want to know your progress and if you have any problems.

Next, start out slowly. As the saying goes “Rome wasn’t built in a day” – the same is true for marathon running. You can’t expect to start at nothing and be ready to run your first marathon without knowing the correct technique and running form which will help you succeed.

Find the right running shoes. Having the right shoes can make a difference. If you don’t have the right shoes, it could affect your running style and how comfortable you are while running. Most of all, if you have the right running shoes it can help you remain injury-free. And for women, the correct sports bra can be as important as the right running shoes, so don’t skimp on that item either.

Try to run three to four days a week, working up to 15 miles total running for the week. When you’re comfortable with that pace, you can try running a shorter distance race such as a 5K or 10K. Running a shorter distance race will help prepare you for the longer races. It will also give you the push you need to start training or keep training at a higher level.

On the weekends, push yourself to run a little bit further until you can work up to the total marathon length. Running for longer periods will build your endurance and prepare you for the 26.2 miles you’ll be running when the marathon arrives. It also helps you prepare for the mental toughness you’ll need when running longer distances.

Be prepared to train in every type of weather and each season of the year. There’s no guarantee the day of the marathon will be perfect weather, so it’s important to be prepared by having trained for any temperature.

You’ll spend much of your training time actually running, but if you don’t properly stretch prior to running, you could be injured. Take the time you need to warm up and stretch before running and then stretch and cool down after running.

Pay attention to what you’re eating while training. You’ll also want to drink a sports drink to replace lost sodium when running 90 minutes or longer. Staying hydrated while running is also imperative. Dehydration can put you on the sidelines in no time at all if you’re not careful.

Using these tips for running a marathon successfully, you should have an idea of what to expect. Take your time increasing your running distance so you can build your endurance and reduce the risk of injury. Keep training and working toward your goal and before you know it the marathon will have arrived and you’ll be ready.