How to Achieve a Sub-3 Hour Marathon at 55 Years Old

TLDRLearn the methods and training schedules to achieve a sub-3 hour marathon at 55 years old, including long runs, speed sessions, easy runs, and a secret ingredient. Pace for a sub-3 hour marathon is around 6:52 per mile.

Key insights

πŸƒβ€β™‚οΈThe long run is the most important run of the week for marathoners, aim for 15-21 miles at a slightly slower pace than your target race pace.

⏱️Include speed sessions midweek to build up to 10 miles of quantity at half marathon or faster pace.

πŸšΆβ€β™‚οΈEasy runs are crucial for recovery and should be 45 minutes to 1 hour of relaxed jogging, helping to flush out the body.

πŸš€Incorporate strides into your easy runs on Fridays, which are short bursts of faster running to improve stride and form.

πŸ₯ΌMake sure to listen to your body and adjust the training schedule according to your own abilities and lifestyle.

Q&A

How long should my long runs be?

β€”For sub-3 hour marathon training, aim for long runs between 15-21 miles, building up gradually over the course of your training.

How many speed sessions should I do per week?

β€”Midweek, focus on one speed session, building up to about 10 miles in total distance at half marathon pace or faster.

Are easy runs important in marathon training?

β€”Yes! Easy runs are crucial for recovery and should be about 45 minutes to 1 hour of relaxed jogging.

What are strides and how do I do them?

β€”Strides are short bursts of faster running during your easy runs. Pick up the pace and focus on form for about 20-30 seconds, then ease back into a jog.

How should I adjust the training schedule to fit my lifestyle?

β€”It's important to listen to your body and adjust the training schedule according to your own abilities and commitments. Find a balance that works for you.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to achieving a sub-3 hour marathon at 55 years old, featuring the running shoe guru Paul.

02:17The long run is the most important run of the week for marathoners, aim for 15-21 miles at a slightly slower pace than your target race pace.

04:56Include speed sessions midweek to build up to 10 miles of quantity at half marathon or faster pace.

07:31Easy runs are crucial for recovery and should be 45 minutes to 1 hour of relaxed jogging, helping to flush out the body.

09:01Incorporate strides into your easy runs on Fridays, which are short bursts of faster running to improve stride and form.

11:33Adjust the training schedule according to your own abilities and lifestyle, finding a balance that works for you.