<p>The goal of our Marathon Training programs is to prepare members to meet their individual goals: be it running a first marathon or setting a personal best. Coaches will help participants adapt the training plans to their individual goals, experience level, and running abilities. Training for a marathon is challenging yet rewarding. Doing it with us offers a fun and supportive team environment.</p>
<p>This year we are once again offering two options to help marathon training participants achieve their marathon goals. The two options allow you to self-select into the right training intensity/pace for your experience level. Both options are the same price and will have similar structure. See below for further details.</p>
<h4><strong>Cost</strong></h4>
<p>The training program fee for either option is $85, which includes a training t-shirt and snacks and water at group training runs. The program fee does not include any race registration fees, so please remember to register separately for your target/graduation race.</p>
<h2>OPTION 1: BASE BUILDING MARATHON TRAINING</h2>
<p>Led by PGRC&#39;s Paul, Chris, Torey, and Cat. Participants will train for a longer period that starts by building a running base, then gradually increasing in volume and intensity over a 24-week period. Though this group will start slow and with low mileage, the training will increase to an intermediate/advanced level. Participation in the entirety of this program is best for individuals who intend to run the entire marathon distance – others might consider starting this program and then switching to the Run/Walk option when it starts.</p>
<h4>Participants</h4>
<p>The Base-Building program is recommended for runners who have the ability to complete a long run of at least 60 minutes and previous training experience – this may include training for shorter races or even running previous marathons. </p>
<h4>Timeline</h4>
<p><strong>Start Date:</strong> June 1, 2025</p>
<p><strong>Duration:</strong> ~ 6 Months</p>
<p><strong>Target Graduation Race: </strong>The Richmond Marathon* (November 15, 2025)</p>
<p><em>*Race registration fees not included in training program fees. Please register separately.</em></p>
<h4>Program Structure</h4>
<p>During the peak phases of the plan, participants should expect to run 5-7 times a week. The training group will meet for three group workouts – a weekend long run and two mid-week interval/threshold workouts. All other runs will be on your own but can include other weekly club runs.</p>
<h4>Training Team Group Workouts:</h4>
<ol><li>
<p>Sunday mornings at 7:00 am - Mission BBQ, Greenbelt <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/fjzEY2TtnmGNZqLZ9" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://goo.gl/maps/fjzEY2TtnmGNZqLZ9</a> </p>
</li><li>
<p>Tuesdays at 6:45pm - TBD - Ludwig Field, UMD, College Park <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/3jmfyXufAQyxmC2D9" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://goo.gl/maps/3jmfyXufAQyxmC2D9</a> </p>
</li><li>
<p>Thursdays at 6:30 pm - Herbert Wells Ice Rink, College Park <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/co8oVKLg7wn" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://goo.gl/maps/co8oVKLg7wn</a> </p>
</li></ol>
<h2>OPTION 2: RUN/WALK MARATHON TRAINING</h2>
<p>Led by Coaches Yvonne and LaTayna, the beginner option will focus on runners who are new to long distance running. </p>
<h4>Participants</h4>
<p>Runners of all levels of experience are welcome, although you should be able to complete at least 5K at any pace before starting the program. If you&#39;re interested in participating in the program this year, we highly recommend that you enter the program with a sound fitness base. </p>
<h4>Timeline</h4>
<p><strong>Start Date:</strong> June 14, 2025</p>
<p><strong>Duration:</strong> ~ 4 Months</p>
<h4>Program Structure</h4>
<p>During the peak phases of the plan, participants should expect to run 5-7 times a week. The training group will meet for two group workouts – a weekend long run and a mid-week interval/threshold workout. All other runs will be on your own, but can include other weekly club runs.</p>
<h4>Training Team Group Workouts:</h4>
<ol><li>
<p>Saturday mornings at 7:00 am - Mission BBQ, Greenbelt <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/fjzEY2TtnmGNZqLZ9" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://goo.gl/maps/fjzEY2TtnmGNZqLZ9</a> </p>
</li><li>
<p>Tuesdays at 6:45 pm - TBD</p>
</li></ol>
<h4>PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS (BOTH OPTIONS)</h4>
<ul><li>
<p>Anyone ages 18 and up with the ability to walk and willingness to run. </p>
</li><li>
<p>An active PGRC club membership is required. If you are not yet a member, you will be prompted to join PGRC during registration.</p>
</li></ul>
<h3>MEDICAL CLEARANCE (BOTH OPTIONS)</h3>
<p>If you are under medical care, have a medical condition, or have not exercised recently, we recommend you secure clearance from your doctor before participating in this or any training program. </p>
<h4>REQUIRED SUPPLIES &amp; EQUIPMENT (BOTH OPTIONS)</h4>
<ul><li>
<p>Water (bring to every session)</p>
</li><li>
<p>Proper running shoes</p>
</li></ul>
<h4>RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES &amp; EQUIPMENT (BOTH OPTIONS)</h4>
<ul><li>
<p>Hat with a visor (Saturday morning training)</p>
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<p>Sunglasses (Saturday Morning training)</p>
</li><li>
<p>Sunscreen</p>
</li><li>
<p>Hydration Vest</p>
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<p>Energy bars/gels/chews of your choosing</p>
</li><li>
<p>Proper sports bras (women)</p>
</li><li>
<p>Watch, stopwatch or an app for interval timing purposes</p>
</li></ul>

PGRC Marathon Training

Marathon Results