First marathon: Resume after first month of training

Roughly one month ago I did sign up for my first marathon. At that time I also wrote a post about how I will prepare for that. So let’s have fun and create some additional pressure by publishing the results so far.

How to measure progress

The main goal is to be able to run the marathon distance. That’s why maximum run distance is of major importance. Secondly I want to finish in under 4 hours. This means a pace of under 5.7 min/km (btw. I really dislike using this unit, but it’s just so common for running). So I am having an eye on the average pace of the longest run.

Although I pointed out in the first post, that reducing weight is not a serious goal. This changed somehow: Instead of loosing some weight or at least having it constant, I did gain some weight. That’s just not acceptable! ;) So from now on, reducing weight to 76 kg is officially a part of the things to achieve till the 28th October.

State of Affairs

Maximum Run Distance

I am doing quite well here. From the chart above it is obvious: There’s nothing to worry about here. The longest run so far has been 28.1 km and the progression is good. I have to keep up the good work here.

Average Pace

As it turns out, reaching the goal to finish the first marathon in under 4 hours, might be harder than expected. The chart clearly shows a tendency to run slower with increasing run distance. Of course that’s just natural, but I have to keep pushing my speed to reach the goal. This might become tough.

Weight

The data here is rather rough. These are not mean weights, but my weight on the day of the training. My weight has a natural, daily fluctuation of around +/- 1kg. However, my body weight did increase and I would like to reduce it for the marathon. This should also help in increasing the pace.

Conclusion

I am very confident, that I will not have big issues with reaching the marathon distance within time. However it’s being said, that the difficulties start at >30 km. I am quite curious, I have to admit.

Besides that, I want to get faster and reduce weight. I will keep an eye on my pace on the long runs and try to keep it under 6 min/km at least. Regarding the weight loss: I will reduce carbohydrates in favor of protein. Furthermore I am going to fulfill my promise from the first post: I will skip sweets! ;)

I am looking forward to the upcoming training and I will keep you posted. By the way, I am tracking my trainings with Endomondo, so feel free to join me on the Endomondo Community.