

Lack of speed workouts to work those fast twitch muscles.Long runs feel very doable for a first time.Recommends Cross Training to further reduce injuries and keep training interesting.Weekday runs never get too long, which makes them easier to fit in.Low to no speed work can be good for first time runners building up mileage to stay injury free.


In other words, my approach in many ways is similar! As a running coach I’m focused on that middle of the pack to back of the pack runner that’s nervous, wants to improve, but has a life. No gimmicks, just solid training plans that are easy for the majority of new and intermediate runners to follow without injury. I’m certainly drawn to his more simplistic and no-nonsense style of training. Hal Higdon was first a very successful runner who competed in 8 Olympic trials, then a successful writer for Runner’s World and multi-time author starting in 1966 and has now been a well respected running coach for many decades. In contrast to the 3 day a week style of the FIRST marathon training method or the high mileage, high intensity of Hanson Method today we are exploring the Hal Higdon Marathon Training Plans which feel like a great moderate way for most folks to jump in. These training plans follow a pretty standard progression of workouts and utilize the 80/20 method varied by runner experience. Since Hal Higdon provides one of the most robust number of free marathon plans, it’s a must discuss. As a running coach, I’m often asked about the best marathon training plan and of course there’s a LOT that goes in to that answer.
