"Marathon Training for Dummies" by Tere Stouffer Drenth is a fantastic guidebook that provides valuable insights and advice for those who aspire to become marathon runners. This comprehensive book covers all the essential aspects of marathon training, making it an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced runners.
The author starts by explaining the fundamentals of marathon running, including the different types of races, the benefits of running, and how to set realistic goals. She then outlines a 16-week training plan that gradually increases in intensity to prepare runners for the marathon. This plan incorporates various workouts, such as long runs, speed training, and cross-training exercises, all aimed at improving endurance and stamina.
What sets this book apart is its emphasis on injury prevention. The author provides practical tips on proper running form, effective stretching techniques, and strategies to avoid common running injuries. She also emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and taking rest days to prevent overtraining.
Available on Audible
In addition to physical training, the author dedicates a section to mental preparation for the marathon. She offers strategies for staying motivated, dealing with pre-race jitters, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the training process and on race day. These insights are particularly beneficial for runners who struggle with the mental aspects of long-distance running.
Overall, "Marathon Training for Dummies" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to conquer the marathon distance. It offers a comprehensive training plan, expert advice on injury prevention, and valuable tips for mental preparation. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned runner, this book is sure to help you achieve your marathon goals.
What are readers saying?
Marathon Training for Dummies by Tere Stouffer Drenth has garnered a mix of reactions from readers. While some found the book informative and useful for those new to marathon running, others believed it fell short in terms of providing advanced training techniques.
Many reviewers appreciated the book's accessible writing style, finding it easy to understand for beginners. They commended the well-organized content and step-by-step approach to marathon training. Tere Stouffer Drenth was praised for her clear understanding of the challenges faced by first-time marathon runners, offering valuable tips and advice.
However, some readers expressed disappointment with the lack of advanced training techniques in the book. They felt that Marathon Training for Dummies primarily focused on beginner-level information and did not provide enough guidance for more experienced runners. Criticisms about repetitive content were also voiced, with readers feeling that certain topics were reiterated multiple times throughout the book.
Furthermore, a few reviewers felt that the book lacked depth and provided overly general information. They wished for more specific instructions and advanced strategies to be included. Some readers also believed that the book did not adequately cover important topics such as nutrition and injury prevention, which are essential for marathon training.
Despite these criticisms, many readers still found value in Marathon Training for Dummies. They viewed it as a helpful starting point on their marathon training journey, providing a solid foundation. The book was praised for its motivational aspects, with readers stating that it helped them stay committed and motivated throughout their training.
MarathonTrainingForDummies RunningMadeEasy FitnessForBeginners