How Many Miles Should a Marathon Trainee Run Per Week?

Question

How Many Miles Should a Marathon Trainee Run Per Week?

Answer 1

You must first consider what type of runner you are. Are you a runner who likes to take the 1st place trophy or one of those runners who wants to finish the race?

First place runner:

Miles every week: 100-140

Runner who wants to just finish the race:

Miles every week: 30-50

Good luck. :)

Answer 2

This pretty much depends on your goal as well as timing before the race.

Most marathon runners, even the best ones, do not run more than 100 miles per week.  In fact, many coaches actively prohibit their runners from more than 100 miles a week, since that often causes the runners to be prone to injury.  

Many runner targets 30-40 miles per week for training.  This usually is a mix of shorter faster runs and longer slower runs.  Usually runners end up about 4-5 days of run, with 2 days of shorter runs, 2 days of medium runs, and 1 day of long run, and 2 days of rest days (for cross training)

As for me, I am currently training for San Francisco Marathon in August 3.  I had been doing about 20 miles per week for past 6 months up until about 2 weeks ago when I bumped up to 40 miles per week.  I will continue with 40 miles per week, up to possibly 50 miles 2 weeks before the marathon, and then decrease to about 15-18 miles for the week prior to marathon.  My longest run will be 15 miles only, since I don't believe in running an entire 26 miles for training; however, for many runners, I would recommend up to at least 18-20 miles for once to have confidence about 26 miles race.

I would suggest for you to go to various website (ie www.runnersworld.com and www.active.com) and learn more about your running schedule.  Joining a running group would be great in gaining more experience.  Also, listen to your body - when it's time to rest, you need to get rest.  

Good luck with your training.

Answer 3

Your first response is a good one.  But let me digress somewhat to magnify the picture a little.  The fact is you have to run enough miles so you can put in the 18, 20, 22 mile runs before you begin to taper.  These long runs are more to train the brain - mind over matter.  26 miles, 385 yards is one long stretch to chew on in one morning, and the mind needs to get used to it so you'll be able to intervene when all your other senses say "STOP".  

Good Luck