Hi,

I am 21, have recently quit smoking, (Over 2 months now :-) and on average undergo physical exercise once a month! However, I am slim, and feel pretty fit.

After watching the marathon and having a friend compete I am really keen to give it go. Am I being unrealistic to think I can compete in 2009?

If not, then could anyone point in the right direction, may be some good websites that offer good training schedules and dietary suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

Well it will involve a lot of hard work to get to marathon standard in one year.....and if you haven't logged onto the FLM site already then you may not get in...but have a look at other related threads about this.

Best idea is to get out there and start doing some short runs...not too long and not too fast. Buy the right pair of running shoes from a specialist running shop and join a running club where you'll be guided and supported by experienced runners.

All power to Steves...!!

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I need a break!

Hi Steve87,
It can be done. I did it last year aged 40 after 15 years of physical neglect. The best advice I can give is to forget about doing it in a fast time - as it's your first attempt, just aim to finish it. I got a bit obsessed with doing a sub 4 hour marathon - it took a long time and a lot of injuries for me to finally realise that my body just wasn't capable of going that fast for so long.
You can find loads of training schedules on the ol' interweb - Halhigdon.com has one to suit every level.

Good luck

Slowsteve

As I'm a Steve as well, thought I would reply!!
Yes you can run it in 2009, as other Steve says, build up slowly but enter now rather than later as it will help to motivate you.
Don't worry about trying to run a time, just enjoy the experience. I ran it when I was 18 and it was one of the best things I've ever done.

Indeed it's quite possible, just as long as you're not worried about achieving a specific time

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How many members name Steve ?????

Steve 87
I stopped smoking and started running two years ago aged 41. I am still 14.5 stone (just made that way) and did my first marathon on Sunday.
Look at joining a local running club and take it from there. It changed my world for the better.
Don't expect to run long distances to start with. Begin with short runs and enjoy it.
.

Great effort Dale.

An impressive time indeed..............



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Thanks everyone, i was dead impressed, 6 replies so quickly!

I am not sure if I am going to go for the 2009 or 2010 yet, I have however signed up for the Windsor Half Marathon which should be fun.

Thanks

Windsor is good...quite a fast course from memory. Is it still sponsored by a building company?

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I need a break!

Enter for 2009, and if you're lucky rnough to get a place but decide against it - I think you can defer your entry to 2010... probably worth doing seeing as there's no surefire way to guarantee you'll get in in 2010 through normal entry!

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