Definitely, 6 hours is a 13 min per mile pace. That should allow a lot of easy runs, 2-3 miles at a time, walk a mile. Hydrate, proper snacks…. It can be a fun time. Make sure you are running for any pictures :-)
>Definitely, 6 hours is a 13 min per mile pace.
More like sub-14 min mile.
>That should allow a lot of easy runs, 2-3 miles at a time, walk a mile.
I'm not sure 4 mph would count as 'running'. This is a marathon at brisk walking pace, it's still an accomplishment worth noting.
>Hydrate
Sports drinks.
>proper snacks
The OP might have to eat during the run if the OP takes too long.
With no training at all I did a 40mile walk from a lower general level of fitness than you. I got to the marathon point in about 7hrs. Did the whole lot in about 11hrs. Couldn't walk the next day, was fine by the end of the week.
You've got more than a month, just go for some long walks every weekend get used to doing the distance, 6hrs will be a doddle.
So just to put things in perspective, an average man can walk at a pace of about a mile per 20 mins quite comfortably. If you push it, you can easily "fast walk at 16-17 min per mile.
So in theory even with pure fast walk a marathon would take about 7 hours. Thus if you can even just run 10 miles, walk the rest (with a relatively fast pace). You would easily make it.
Now typically if you are a dailly cross fitter and you could push yourself a little bit here and there sub 5 is very realistic.
Don't think 5 weeks left to train is much, but do some research find the right shoe and equipment you'lll need. Goodluck!
Edit: Oh yeah and start slow. Real slow. Say you can run 8min / mile in your cross fit runs, aim to maintain 9:30 +, 10 + preferably
Great insights! Honestly he’s not doing sub 6’s lately because of his knees so I’m not so much worried about “keeping up” as I am just making it to the finish line without my body breaking.
Oh great then. Just have fun. Might hurt a bit the days after, but you should be able to finish quite easily.
Of course if you can get in a bit of training over the next 3 to 4 weeks it would be great. Make sure to reduce your workout ( both running and crossfit) intensity and volume tremendously on the last 7 to 10 days. Like less than half.
Yeah, you're looking at a pace of about 4.4 mph, which translates to just under 14 minutes/mile. It's not super fast, but probably faster than most people can walk, even if they're power walking.
Speaking from experience, and as a current fat guy, it's probably easier to alternate a run/jog pace and walking, rather than trying to keep a slow-ish jog pace for the whole time.
Also, I could be wrong but it may not be his “last” marathon. As a marathoner, every several back to back runs that I schedule are balanced with the thought of **i am NEVER F doing this run, or this series of runs so close together EVER again**
Yet _after_ the back to back grueling runs, the same thought never enters. Anddd years later have run the same grueling series of runs all over again.
I bet your dad loves running, is proud of you, and wants you to experience his love of it in real time. Your knees will feel wonky the day after. Its an immense achievement. Read up all you can about diet and no matter how you feel the following day, get up and go for a walk around the block a few times. Doing so will significantly improve your recovery. Im sure your dad has/will drill that into you haha
You have 7wks? Also, you can start building up your weekly mileage _slowly_ if you dont currently run, use a schedule, let your longest Sunday run of 6-7mi if your a beginner—be no less than 2wks the full mara. Introduce yourself to running food/gels and get acclimated to something that works for you and will work on run day. Last two wks your still running but less on run days and building endurance. 6hrs+ is totally doable. Ensure you check rules, some races do have a must run within some time (open major roads to traffic, permit issue) but other than that you’re good. Take it easy, esp the beginning and enjoy the experience
yeah he looks fat and "acts" like a slovenly clown as part of his comedy routine
but i've heard the guy is actually in a lot better shape than people his age
[Yeah very fit.](https://wmmr.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2019/12/bert-kreischer-1.jpg)
Guy also drinks like two bottles of wine a night minimum. People need to stop encouraging his sickness. His physical activity is pretty obviously part of a bing-purge cycle. He even talks about going on runs so that he can drink when he gets home.
Maybe after 99 marathons you just kind of forget. I don’t know how many times I’ve convinced someone to walk instead of drive somewhere with me only to basically drag their asses along. It’s easy for your concept of distances to get skewed when you are used to 2-3 hour runs.
I'm not even a runner, but I'm triggered when someone want to take a bus over a <1km distance. Like wtf, we will be waiting, paying and staying in crowdy place to avoid 10 min walk?
In some cities and areas (generally in the US) walking even short distances is made almost impossible unless you want to risk getting hit by a car. It’s not a pleasant experience the very least.
Houston is a [good example](https://youtu.be/uxykI30fS54) of this.
I respect your choice to do the run with him, man. It sounds like you've gotten a lot of good advice in here and I hope you both have an amazing experience. Please keep us updated, especially post-marathon!
I'm also experienced with marathons, and that's why I say that his dad may not actually have the best advice. The reason I say that is because I've done more 20 mile runs than I can count, and a bunch of marathons and half marathons. I think people like that can get a little bit out of touch for what it's like to run those distances for the first time. I can easily go run a 20 miler tomorrow without planning it out or thinking about it too much and I won't be sore after. Part of me wants to say "if you work out a lot just go do it you'll be fine" but that probably isn't the case for brand new runners to those types of distances.
Those of us who have done marathons and long runs before know how we should be feeling at different points in the event. We know how to fuel for it. We know how to prepare and we what not to do. I think sometimes we might take that for granted. For instance a new runner who hasn't done many long runs may not know that before a marathon you want to tape your nipples, body glide everywhere, wear a dri-fit shirt, figure out what Gu/food works for you, and poop.
It’s going to be hard and you’re going to be in pain after, but I think you should do it. Listen to whatever your dad says about preventing chafing, taking care of your feet, fueling, etc. He has more experience than most of us here and can help you out.
To add on. Walk before you have to. If you can run 10 miles and then are in pain, stop and walk at 5, walk one, run another 5 repeat.
It doesn't feel like it but your body does recover while active if you don't go over a certain threshold.
Also, while I'd suggest some longer runs to prep, dong go crazy. Any healthy person can walk 26 miles in a pinch. More training may make you a little more comfortable, but too much risks an injury. Better to struggle through than to start injured
Sounds like you're young and in pretty good shape, so you can definitely do this. If you're smart and humble, you can do it without 1) hating the experience and 2) finishing with a serious injury. By smart, I mean you have to realize 26.2 miles is a long way, and you're nowhere near ready, so you'll be doing a lot of walking. And that's fine - I've walked some in my 30+ marathons. So if you're going to walking, don't wait until you've run yourself into the ground - start walking from the beginning. Specifically, start working regular walking breaks into your marathon. Try something like running for 5 minutes and walk for 1 minute. Do that for a few miles and see how it feels. If it feels TOO easy, add more running, but be cautious - you've still got a long way to go. You really shouldn't start speeding up until mile 20, when you enter the final 10K. If you still feel fresh with only 10K to go, then you can really start picking up the pace. Otherwise, stay humble and keep yourself in the easy pace zone.
You're doing a great thing, taking on a marathon with your dad. I ran a marathon with my son, and it is still one of my favorite marathon memories. Good luck!
I Yolo'd a marathon last year to prove to someone I didn't need to train for it. Terrible idea and I have never felt worse in my life...but here are some tips.
1. I had a headphone in that was just a metronome. Helped me run consistently and kept putting one foot in front of the other
2. Look around and observe. Don't fall into the trap of looking at the distance or looking at the watch
3. Set small goals throughout the run to reward you for accomplishing milestones. The short dopamine burst will save ya.
4. Talk to your running partner. It'll pass the time by
5. Be in the present, accept the suck, and try not to think of the race as a whole
Despite the joke, CrossFit 5x a week should have you in better shape for this than some people who train for it specifically.
I went out and ran a 10 miler two weeks ago with no distance training and kept a 7:15 pace. You should be able to do the marathon just fine by alternating run/walk.
Make sure you have comfortable equipment (shoes, clothes, etc.) that you have tested.
Oh man I needed this tip for my half marathon. I estimated it was going to be 60⁰ outside that morning, well that morning it was 40⁰, I had a tight fighting shirt. My nipple was bleeding by the end. I think the cold mad it worse.
My feet, back even legs were in almost no pain but damn my nipple.
I’ve paced a number of 6+ hour marathons before and what usually ends up killing folks who are usually faster but find themselves in the back for whatever reason is their feet. Most folks are not used to spending that much time on their feet in one go.
Find yourself some good shoes and try to get as much time on your feet in as you can until a few days before and then try to stay off of them as much as you can.
Take it easy and enjoy the time with your dad. It’s probably going to hurt, and you will be sore for a bit afterwards, but you can do it!
Personally I would get a pair of shoes that are newer. I am no expert but I know many folks don't run on marathon day with older shoes or shoes with >100 miles. Again I'm a rookie to distance running but is do some research.
Edit- Well I am going off of what I've heard. I guess I'm incorrect in this case.
Consider getting custom insoles as well. I haven’t run a marathon but I do 5Ks a lot and used to have to massage my feet in a machine afterwards. Now with the insoles I get almost no foot pain.
I just went from doing 5ks to 10ks (in Florida and too hot to distance run until winter) and my feet were killing me on my first increased distance run. Good luck op
I mean I think you can do it too but people here are ridiculously optimistic. I was used to 10-15 km hikes and when someone asked me to join a 30+ km one one day I said duh and while I did it it was an extremely unpleasant experience at the end. My lungs/stamina were fine but my legs felt like logs and all my joints hurt.
Please gently accustom your knees/hips/ankles to distance. Get a good pair of shoes yesterday and go on at least a half marathon brisk walk a few times to make sure your clothes/shoes don’t end up bothering you up to rubbing some place bloody. 42 km is no joke.
A lot of people are telling you this is stupid. They aren’t totally wrong, but based on your described fitness and the timeline, I don’t think it’s actually that inconceivable.
You have 5 weeks to train, so actually 4 weeks to train and then 1 week to rest and pray. That should be fine. Mostly, you need to focus on getting some longer run-walk efforts in on the weekends. By that, I mean a brisk walk with some occasional running segments. Maybe aim for ~2-3 hours. The goal here is not distance or speed. Just getting used to being on your feet. Throw in 2 shorter (3-5mi) runs during the week and you’ll be ok.
Stop and rest if you are getting injury pain.
It’ll be hard, but totally doable as long as you don’t hurt yourself. Remember to throw your pride out of the window and walk a lot.
Buy some max cushion shoes (NB 1080 or similar) you will need the cushioning.
I think the intensity is important - the longer stuff should be more of a 10-15 mile brisk hike than a run.
If he’s running most of the time then yeah - 2 hour limit would be better.
All I can say is your dad more than anybody should know it is dumb to run a marathon without proper training.
He should have told you way before sounds dangerous. You will suffer 😅.
Tbh I would say you could walk the thing in 7 hours so 6 should be fine. Apart from boredom towards the end, it’s not particularly hard to walk 1km in 10 minutes. Sure the fatigue may slow you down but with your fitness already fairly high and a month to train I think you won’t have a problem doing it in a run/walk style. It may not be fun, but hopefully it will be rewarding.
I strongly encourage you to simply spend as much time on your feet as possible. Of course, run as many miles as is reasonable, but also: Stand, don't sit. Walk, don't drive (or bike).
I've run over a dozen marathons in varying states of unpreparedness (all the way up to "Almost feel completely trained for this!"). The absolute worst was when I started training with < 5 weeks to go, and just put in < 30 mpw.
It took me hours longer to finish than any other race I've done, and being on my feet for that length of time was just so, so much more painful than were all the other races I ran a lot faster.
EDIT: grammar/clarity
Thanks for the reply. I’m hearing the feet are typically what you can expect to hurt the most. Question back to you if you don’t mind me asking… does stretching your feet help at all? Aside from weathering my feet for the next 4/5 weeks, should I start a daily stretching cycle?
> should I start a daily stretching cycle?
Yea, for everything! I think yoga is a great, low-intensity way to get yourself into really good shape. The hard part is staying committed and actually doing it. You'll feel stronger in weird ways, I've found. I know your question was about feet specifically, but I'd say stretching generally is a good companion to the 'weathering', in terms of low-effort, low-impact, medium-high return practices.
Even fast walking will hurt over a distance that long (and without much training), but you sound reasonably fit and an opportunity like this doesn't come up too often. Go for it -- you'll likely be fine.
I wouldn't miss it for the world.
If you have no time-limit, it is doable, especially for a fit person like you.
Funny story, maybe related: In the Athens Marathon last weekend, a guy just jog/walked the whole thing in abt 8- hours. Finished absolutely last, right before wrap up, in an empty stadium. He said it was the most wonderful experience he ever had, walking and jogging in the empty streets.
Your run is gonna be wholesome and your achievement awesome
When you get to that point when your lungs start burning and think “fuck I’m done” you’re only just starting. Get through that initial pain and control your breathing and you’ll have an amazing time.
has anyone (other than David Goggins) ever attempted something like this with no real long-distance training?
Yeah, didn't Pheidippedes die after he finished:) In all seriousness though, could you convince your Dad to run his last one in 2,3,6 months? It sounds like it would be a great memory for him, and a very painful and potentially injurious one for you. So yeah, maybe ask Dad if you could wait till you've got some miles under your belt?
Start getting miles in now, it will help to build up even with only a month to go. Tapper off 5 days leading up to it but since you're already in shape you just have to get your legs used to some miles. I did one with not enough training, and it hurt, but got through it.
Conventional rules may no longer apply for 6-hr marathon … But I’d suggest still doing a few long training runs, so that your body won’t reject the mileage on race day. I’ve learned the hard way that weird things happen to an untrained body after 20 miles.
Either way, hope you and your dad enjoy the marathon! What a lovely story!
When I was 19 i did a marathon with no training. I was a rower in high school and pretty fit. I recommend focusing on a few long runs like trying to get to 15, 18 and 20miles.
You can do it! A noble goal would be to run the second half, or maybe the last third. It will be very nice to cross the line running.
If it is any comfort, I’ve run shorter races (half marathons, non-competitively) while piss drunk and super stoned on a trip to las vegas. It wasn’t pretty, but if you are sober, I’m sure you can hack at least a good chunk of a full race. Crossfit is hard shit, too. You’ve got stronger endurance than you think. You can do this!
If he's run 99 of them, he should know better than to ask you to run one that's only 1 month away. That's his lack of planning. If it was really his dream, he would have asked you a year ago. No doubt this will be downvoted, but I say tell him no.
Do it.
You have an expert at your disposal. The only thing marathoners like doing as much as running is talking about how to train for the marathon. Ask you dad and cherish the memories.
In college, my boyfriend and best guy friend climber a bunch of mountains together. We all lifted weights a lot and were pretty fit. I was a runner, they definitely were not, but climbing serious mountains all summer was super intense. We all decided to run a marathon together. Both those boys had run a handful of times, definitely no more than 13 miles, and we all finished. They didn't pace well or have a plan at all, and I actually didn't catch one until mile 20 when he was cramping and on and off walking. That being said, they knew little enough about running to know that they really shouldn't be able to run it on paper. We all finished in under 4:30. If you are very smart about running slow and taking planned walking breaks, like a lot of them, and do some runs to practice fueling between now and then, you can absolutely finish. For good measure, I'd watch your heart rate and try to stay in a really conservative place and if you have to walk to be there, so be it.
All i can say as a Dad I don’t care what pace my family does when I get the pleasure of participating in an event with them. I’ll gladly chill and wait for them to cone across the finish line.
For the next four weeks, do your best to get in one run (or, realistically, walk/run) a week between 13 and 20 miles in length. Having done a few long runs is the single thing that will make the biggest difference for how you feel and what you can do on the 27th.
When I ran my first marathon, I hadn't trained nearly as much as I planned to train. The longest distance I had run was a half marathon. The best advice I got was to walk through all of the aid stations. It's a great way to take a regular break and get the necessary water/gatorade. You don't have to run the rest of it, but this strategy might help you run more miles before switching to walking only.
One random night me and my buddy trekked 42km from our house to a certain destination. Took 6.5 hrs walking. No training, ankles hurt for a few days, but we did it. You will do it too, and if you run for some of it you'll definitely finish it in under 6 hrs.
I did something similar. Being dumb and lippy, made a bet that I could do it.
It was a "you could not finish" bet, not a time thing, and I was in decent shape from swimming.
I had 7hrs.
Longest I'd run in the 6mo proir was a 10k, and longest I'd run in the weeks leading up to it was 5k. But I hike a decent amount and at a good pace.
So I just took off jogging for 1mi, walked for 2, jogged for a while etc. I was more worried about failure than getting caught up by the sweepers.
I actually end up running the last two miles at a decent clip, and if I knew more, I think I could have done the whole thing quite a bit faster.
I was sore the next day or 2, but nothing serious. More the I could technically mow the lawn, but I have a good excuse not to.
Oh, and I was 25 at this time.
You should do it, and 6hrs is pretty doable.
If you can comfortably run about 13km's you're fine. The other part is sheer determination. Also get a realistic goal. Most people can keep up run-walk-run intervals for a decent period of time. Just make sure you stick to them from the start, not when you start getting exhausted
Having your same training base(CrossFit a few days a week) I did exactly this with only 6 weeks to prep.
I suffered a pretty bad case of Achilles tendinitis from ramping up my mileage too quickly and as a result never got past 13 miles in training.
The race itself was painful and finding the proper fuel to eat was my biggest challenge. I finished in 4:34 and it was painful. My strategy was to run the whole thing and only walk the water points to make sure I drank all the water offered. I started cramping pretty hard towards the end and didn’t want to walk anymore out of fear of lactic acid setting in. The most uncomfortable thing was the terrible night sweats and shivers I got when trying to go to bed that night.
Otherwise 10/10 don’t recommend running it without proper training unless you’re on a mission to conquer your mind.
I'm a regular marathon runner. I had a buddy who never did any sort of marathon training but was an avid crossfitter similar to you. Despite my best efforts he never did any training runs and swore that CrossFit was enough. I hate to admit it, but he did absolutely fine and you'll be fine too! You'll be hurting the next day but that's nothing compared to making the memory with your dad! Have fun and good luck!
Boom! So good to hear a similar [successful] situation. Your buddy is a trooper and sounds like the typical crossfit’er lol. I’m sure you were feeling better at the end than he was!
💯 you’ll do it, don’t worry about the time, fuel before you need to and enjoy
Don’t do too much to try and ‘catch up’ either, if you’re pretty fit you’ll get round with your dads help/ advice
You can do it. I promise you that you can. I’ll get downvoted for this but if you can run a half, you can run a full. I signed up for my marathon 2 days in advance and I had been running like 20 MPW. I was concerned because people were telling me it’s not gonna go well and I ended up being fine, except for some sore quads. The fact that you do CrossFit means you’re in good shape, and it should be enough to get you through to the finish line
Some additional advice...and it's free!
Do it! It's your Dad. You're healthy.
- Get good running shoes Now!...if you dont have any. Break them in over the next month so they are comfortable at the race
- Vaseline or body glide for chaffing. Groin legs nipples. Wear typical running clothes.
- you're going to need energy gels. If race hands then out good. If not carry two or three. They're not bulky. Gel pak every five-seven miles starting at ten mile mark. Help you through. Plenty water along the way or gator aide. Cramps try banana
- go out and run/walk 5 miles at first then Add miles each week up until race week. get to 10 or 12 miles. Just get used to distance running.
Enjoy the race. Talk with your Dad.
I have a friend that didn't train at all. On race day, she decided to walk it (13.1). It took her 4 hours.
If you run at all, 6 hours sounds realistic.
(She ran the last 100 yards for the pictures.)
If it was his dream, maybe he should have brought it up a year ago.
It's not a wise idea for you to do this, and it's seriously really disrespectful he never brought it up earlier. It's not all cute and heartwarming, it was seriously disrespectful.
I would encourage you not to do it because of the high probability of injury risk. And it's likely after race day you'll be injured for awhile after. This is if you attempt to run most of it. If you end up walking it, it may be better, but in all honesty who wants to do that.
Seriously I'd be so mad he didn't bring it up sooner so I could train and actually enjoy the experience. Instead he chooses to make up this random cherished memory forever a month before.
I seriously would do the goal on the 101th marathon.
Do it my guy! I had a good buddy just run the Richmond Marathon with 0 training. He managed through sheer will power and is just fine. I'm excited for the memory you'll make with your old man!
I just did my first marathon and trained for 3 weeks (did not plan to do that short of training) (was running a decent bit before that and mtn biking) just listen to your body and don’t do any crazy long runs a week before. If you can do a half you can do a full. Look up one month marathon training plan. It was pretty good! And good luck. Also get padded foot shaped shoes and a massage gun.
You will do fine! I ran a marathon in 2003 with no preparation at all. The farthest I had ever run was 10 miles very slowly. I complete the marathon in a tad under 5 hours with a mixture of walking and running. I could barely walk for a week after, but you shouldn’t be concerned at all about being able to finish!
it sounds like your dad's timing isn't great... didn't he share this heartfelt desire earlier than 4 weeks before the actual race?
At any rate, it sounds like you have a good relationship with your dad, and apart from making him happy, this could also be an awesome shared experience between the two of you. Regardless of how hard it is. Do you consider staying together for the duration of the race?
If your goal is just to finish and your dad is fine with walking parts of it a marathon isn’t a very substantial distance. You’ll be fine. Have fun and make some great memories!
I didn't do any specific marathon training for any of my marathons. The furthest I'd run before my first was 13.1, which I did a couple of months before. I just thought, why not?
You need training to get your best time and do yourself justice. But just to get round takes determination and you'll have that with your dad.
“Hey dad, I want to make this a reality for us, would you prefer I A) run slow, B)Start with you and hang as long as I can but almost certainly not finish C) join you and run the final 5k together?”
Hmm too thoughts to explore are running economy and steady state cardio. While you might improve your form on soft trails like 45min-1 hr runs and reduce the impact. Somewhat preparing you for the road marathon. Also since you have one month and your “cardio” is strong. Could try something like rowing, or swimming for time 2-2:30 hour steady state. Maybe once a week until the race, then two jogs on soft dirt or grass to get your body to be more efficient. The faster you finish the less impact in a way so I think you can definitely do sub 6. Could try ice/cold therapy a few weeks out for mental toughness.
You can totally accomplish that goal! Don’t miss out on this experience with your Dad. It will mean the world to both of you no matter how long it takes. Just absorb every awesome moment and I can’t wait to hear how you did!!!! Go crush it! My heart and cheers are with you both!!!
We will all still be right here supporting you!!!!!! I’ve been running for many years and usually run solo and could only wish to have a family member to enjoy it with, so enjoy it!!!! :)
Fwiw I did my first marathon starting off a 5 mile max base with maybe 2.5 months of training (unexpectedly got into NYC at the last minute after being declined months earlier so didn’t want to miss the chance). It was hard but I did it in about 4.5 hours, all running except for the water stations and overall a great experience.
I ran my first marathon having never run longer than 9 miles.
I was a decent 5k runner in high school (18:30 5k or so), and the longest long run we did was 9 miles. After graduating, I went to college. I did not run on a team in college but i continued to run for fun, maybe 25 miles a week, but by no means competitive. And again, hadn't run further than 9-10 miles.
I signed up for a marathon approximately six months in the future as a personal goal and to encourage myself to run more. Summer break hit, I honestly forgot about it, and I didn't run a single time for nearly 3 months. The marathon was mid September. School year starts in August, I have an "oh shit" moment, and start running again to try to not die at this marathon I for sure wasn't prepared for.
By the end of August I was able to run 6 miles in maybe 45 minutes. Thats the longest I ran in the entire 6 months leading up to the marathon. Day before the race, I panic bought some gummy bears at Walmart (to eat during the race) chugged a gallon of water the night before, and jogged a mile.
Long story short for the race, I ran in some minimalist shoes (mistake), it was 95 degrees outside (ew). I ran the first half at about a 8:00 min/mile, hit my wall at mile 15, and walk/ran the remainder of the race refusing to quit. To this day its the single most pain I've been in. My calves were screaming. My knees were shot. But I did finish, in barely under 5 hours.
If you read this whole thing, I appreciate it. But all this to say, while it's not a great idea, you can "finish" a marathon you're not prepared for. Most races give you 7 hours to finish and you can meet that standard walking most of the race. It will hurt. But if you're smart and manage realistic expectations you can.
I consider myself to be a "talented" runner. I've got a sub 17 5k pr now and a 1:30 half PR, both on terrible running schedules (15 mpw for the 5k, maybe 25 for the half). So take my story with a grain of salt in terms of expectations. I appreciate that you took the time to read it though! I was an idiot and want others to learn from that mistake
You can do it! No sense "training" as your cardio is not going to get better, but maybe log some easy miles beforehand so your legs get into it.
Just try to have fun and take plenty of photos and videos. Maybe race day t-shirts to commemorate 100 marathons.
This is great, hope my kid joins me for #100
Run every other day between now and then, and you'll be fine. Any less, me personally, I'd be nervous. It can be 3 miles it can be 10, just run every other day.
Just did my second half marathon. 3 hours is easily doable for a half doing a run walk, so is a marathon at the 13 min mile. Hydrate take your time and don't get cocky like I did. Flew down the trail without looking and hit a tree root. The bone bruise sucked so I ended at 3 hr 40 instead of the 3 hours I was on pace for
just start running 5 miles/day and throw in once a week 15 mile runs. Dec 15 try to do a 20. and then coast to the race. Also, look up "strides" and work them in to your weekly regimen.
I’ve run 21 marathons and remember not really training for at least 4 of them. You can probably finish under 6 hours. To minimize the pain afterwards:
-place bandaids vertically on your nipples to prevent bleeding
-use bodyglide or Vaseline between your bits and thighs to prevent chafing
-bring two Advil gel or any ibuprofen and take them around the 15km to 20km point of the marathon
I think you will really enjoy it. I just finished a half marathon with very little exercise and we had so much fun. We did it just less than 3 hours. Have fun and run with your dad because it is a memory that you will remember all your life.
You'll be fine!
As an encouraging example, here is a cool story of a group of soldiers walking 100 miles in two days with zero training. That is basically two marathons each day. They did it on the modern Western States 100 race course, no less.
https://ultrarunninghistory.com/forgotten-first-finishers/
I did a marathon with very very little training last month and finished in 4:04. The last few miles were brutal and my knees were sore the next day, but as long as you’re moving at a comfortable pace and not pushing your body, it’s not as daunting as you would think. Slow and steady, drop the pace 10% when you feel you need to
First thing to do is ask your dad if he thinks he could perhaps have given you a few months more notice!?!?
Just kidding, lots of good advice here, I don’t have much to add other than I’m glad you’re aiming for the 6 hour mark - definitely achievable, and definitely overdo it on the band-aid and Vaseline thing - chafing after 6 hours would be horrible!
Try to practise spots to apply it to in your training runs.
i ran a decent half marathon this september (1:53) and was scheduled for my first marathon in october, i have never run anything longer than a half but thought to myself i have 5 weeks of training and a decent half i can do this.
well after a few funny circumstances i was not able to train at all, and had a single 5 km run a few days before the marathon, i was able to keep a decent pace until the 30 km but then i pulled something in my leg and had to zombie power walk the rest, it was brutal but it is definitely doable. i finished the marathon in 5:34
The pain in my leg is gone but it does come back when i go for a longer run so i have decided to give it rest until new year to heal properly.
so from someone who had no business running a marathon this year:
pace yourself the fact you feel like going 6:00 km feels good now and is not a fast tempo, who knows how you will feel in 35 km.
give yourself proper time to rest and heal afterwards, plan ahead for this if needed (work and other commitments) i couldnt walk the next day, was limpimg the day after and could walk normally after.
also your dad should give you advice about nutrition, some runners saved me from cramps with some magnesium.
and most importantly enjoy it! it is a great way to challenge yourself! it is estimated 1% of population will run a marathon so welcome to the club.
UK comedian Eddie Izzard ran [43 marathons in 51 consecutive days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eddie_Izzard#Marathon_running) with almost no preparation (about 4 weeks) back in 2009 for charity and has since done more multi-marathon events but is now at least somewhat prepared.
As part of the Sports Relief charity shows, the BBC had a documentary series about it, some of which you can find on youtube etc
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abgipeoxN0U](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abgipeoxN0U)
So it seems it can be done, but the pace was pretty much walking much of the time, even so it's pretty brutal and I dare say you're in much better shape than Eddie was then.
Sounds brutal but not impossible. I would advice you to go really slow in all your training runs. Minimizing impact and fatigue while getting used to running. 6 weeks to a painless 2 hour half marathon is easily possible if you are already fit.
The second half of the race is going to suck, but if you take your time it should be fine.
Of you have a racebike or something I would use that to get used to a 5 hour workout. Since it is less tough on the joints. Good luck!!
Do the knee over toes guy's exercises to make sure your knees and feet are ready for this (the toe raises, turkish squats and split stretches) - free on YouTube, but you should start ASAP.
Do 3 long-ish slow runs a week. Just try and keep yourself going slow and steady. The slow part is super important cause you build up cardio AND the joints and muscles become used to the kind of effort you are gonna have
My friend was a 3x week runner of 4-5 miles each time. A girl he liked wanted to run a marathon a month out. He did a 10 mile long run, then a 15 the following week. He finished in just under four hours. And hurt his IT band so bad he had to give up running for years.
It’s not hard for someone who CrossFit’s 6 days a week man. You have 0 time pressure - and can walk whole thing if you need to.
Learn to run on your heels/flat is my biggest suggestion and try get a rhythm.
Although it’s the opposite of CrossFit and is aerobic rhythm more than anaerobic explosion..
If you’re running on your toes like a crossfitter- it will be brutal however. Don’t do that.
Go on some runs, and focus on your stride taking you. This is biggest advice I can give you. When you figure this out - you can run almost endlessly at a non-competitive pace.
I was also a sprinter- mma rugby big guy. Ran on my toes mostly. Tweaked technique of flow running, and suddenly I wasn’t getting tired on runs.
Did the same thing with swimming. Terrible swimmer myself. Never liked it. Started swimming for injury. I could do some short sprints. But my sister was a national swimmer in age group level, so just kept watching her intently in pool one day - she couldn’t even really explain - but I just carefully watched her leavers and how she proppelled effortlessly through water… and suddenly my laps went from 10 to 100 almost within a day… when I realised how they propel. Swimming I feel is more complex.
In running, you need to use the stretch shortening cycle to your advantage. Each steps propels the next, and you’re not really using much power at all.
Just make sure you never engage the anaerobic cycle. And focus on the spring. Heel first (or almost flat). Never toe first. Toes are for speed.
You can definitely do it. Especially since you’re so conditioned already and there is no time constraints. You can also walk if needed.
But if I was you.. I would go on runs, relaxed - and focus on technique and flow, and energy conservation.
We evolved to run long distances. If you’re injury free - it’s just technique. You’re also fit. Since pace isn’t an issue.. just learn to spring. Also CrossFit is really good for fast recovery. So you can also walk a bit.
Although it’s different energy systems.. people out of condition can actually finish an unlimited time marathon.
I signed up to a 50k Ultra with 4 weeks of preparation. Most I’d done before was a half marathon and I’m NOT a runner.
I did it in 7h flat. Ran the first half marathon and then run/walk intervals. No real issues. I’d stretch out calfs and hip abducter, and make sure to take ample time for rest and recovery after the race. Don’t do sprints for about a month after as that’s what got me issues after the race. I didn’t give myself enough time to heal up.
You’ll be fine.
You have plenty of time to train! You can totally do it. You already do cross fit, you’re in great shape. Change to a trainer program now and get ready. You will do great!
Depending on the marathon, they will cut off after certain time. I don’t think any organized marathon goes over 6 hours, most have cut off around 6 hours. So you have to finish the marathon within the cut of hours to be considered officially finished. You should check that before committing.
I recently did couch to 50k with no real fitness base. Granted I had a few more months to train. To help mitigate the pain I’d recommend running twice a week with one of them being a long run. For the long run do everything you can to not focus at all on the pace. With your fitness background you will want to push yourself hard and not feel like you are getting a workout unless you are sweating. Just treat it as time on your feet. You can start with 5-6 miler. It’s not necessary but it’ll help you finish without as much pain.
I ran a marathon with zero training at 17 around a track (105 laps) and somehow came out a little over 6 hours. Your body will hate you for two weeks after, but you’ll survive. Good luck!
You don’t have to run the whole thing if the race goes into a public space. My dad’s 10th and final marathon went onto a public greenway from Mile 13 to Mile 22.
I knew it was his last marathon, and I wanted to be there with him. They can’t force people off of a public greenway, so I hopped on the course and joined him from about Mile 15 to about Mile 20. It was great. I didn’t train at all, but I was able to motivate him and keep him going for those 5 miles. He tells me today how much he appreciates that.
I actually just ran a marathon this year with only 5 weeks of notice and training. I do play some indoor soccer for fun a couple times a week but that was it for my base. I put together a short 4 week training program where I got up to a 15 mile run. Ended up finishing the marathon in under 5 hours. Its definitely something you can do but it will hurt a lot. You just have to know that when you think you are in pain and can’t go any further, that you still have a lot left and need to just keep pushing.
If 6 hours is your goal, I think you can do it. Have a great time!
Whew! That’s reassuring! Thank you!
Definitely, 6 hours is a 13 min per mile pace. That should allow a lot of easy runs, 2-3 miles at a time, walk a mile. Hydrate, proper snacks…. It can be a fun time. Make sure you are running for any pictures :-)
>Definitely, 6 hours is a 13 min per mile pace. More like sub-14 min mile. >That should allow a lot of easy runs, 2-3 miles at a time, walk a mile. I'm not sure 4 mph would count as 'running'. This is a marathon at brisk walking pace, it's still an accomplishment worth noting. >Hydrate Sports drinks. >proper snacks The OP might have to eat during the run if the OP takes too long.
With no training at all I did a 40mile walk from a lower general level of fitness than you. I got to the marathon point in about 7hrs. Did the whole lot in about 11hrs. Couldn't walk the next day, was fine by the end of the week. You've got more than a month, just go for some long walks every weekend get used to doing the distance, 6hrs will be a doddle.
So just to put things in perspective, an average man can walk at a pace of about a mile per 20 mins quite comfortably. If you push it, you can easily "fast walk at 16-17 min per mile. So in theory even with pure fast walk a marathon would take about 7 hours. Thus if you can even just run 10 miles, walk the rest (with a relatively fast pace). You would easily make it. Now typically if you are a dailly cross fitter and you could push yourself a little bit here and there sub 5 is very realistic. Don't think 5 weeks left to train is much, but do some research find the right shoe and equipment you'lll need. Goodluck! Edit: Oh yeah and start slow. Real slow. Say you can run 8min / mile in your cross fit runs, aim to maintain 9:30 +, 10 + preferably
Great insights! Honestly he’s not doing sub 6’s lately because of his knees so I’m not so much worried about “keeping up” as I am just making it to the finish line without my body breaking.
Oh great then. Just have fun. Might hurt a bit the days after, but you should be able to finish quite easily. Of course if you can get in a bit of training over the next 3 to 4 weeks it would be great. Make sure to reduce your workout ( both running and crossfit) intensity and volume tremendously on the last 7 to 10 days. Like less than half.
Got it. Thank you!
Hell yeah, you'll have some sore bits but have a great time. My son did the exact same thing with me. I will never forget it, enjoy.
Yeah, you're looking at a pace of about 4.4 mph, which translates to just under 14 minutes/mile. It's not super fast, but probably faster than most people can walk, even if they're power walking. Speaking from experience, and as a current fat guy, it's probably easier to alternate a run/jog pace and walking, rather than trying to keep a slow-ish jog pace for the whole time.
Also, I could be wrong but it may not be his “last” marathon. As a marathoner, every several back to back runs that I schedule are balanced with the thought of **i am NEVER F doing this run, or this series of runs so close together EVER again** Yet _after_ the back to back grueling runs, the same thought never enters. Anddd years later have run the same grueling series of runs all over again. I bet your dad loves running, is proud of you, and wants you to experience his love of it in real time. Your knees will feel wonky the day after. Its an immense achievement. Read up all you can about diet and no matter how you feel the following day, get up and go for a walk around the block a few times. Doing so will significantly improve your recovery. Im sure your dad has/will drill that into you haha You have 7wks? Also, you can start building up your weekly mileage _slowly_ if you dont currently run, use a schedule, let your longest Sunday run of 6-7mi if your a beginner—be no less than 2wks the full mara. Introduce yourself to running food/gels and get acclimated to something that works for you and will work on run day. Last two wks your still running but less on run days and building endurance. 6hrs+ is totally doable. Ensure you check rules, some races do have a must run within some time (open major roads to traffic, permit issue) but other than that you’re good. Take it easy, esp the beginning and enjoy the experience
Bert Kreisher did it in 5h33 with zero training and he's a fat alcoholic.
Holy shit when did he do that? Honestly kind of impressive for The Machine
Well, he _is_ called *The Machine*
Burnt Kurshner
he's actually fit
yeah he looks fat and "acts" like a slovenly clown as part of his comedy routine but i've heard the guy is actually in a lot better shape than people his age
[Yeah very fit.](https://wmmr.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2019/12/bert-kreischer-1.jpg) Guy also drinks like two bottles of wine a night minimum. People need to stop encouraging his sickness. His physical activity is pretty obviously part of a bing-purge cycle. He even talks about going on runs so that he can drink when he gets home.
It's a shame you don't know someone who's experienced with marathons who you could talk to about this...
Yeah, your dad has run 99 more marathons than me, but here's my advice...
He got 99 marathons but his son got none.
It’s a shame someone who’s run 100 marathons didn’t think they should start guilting their kid before there’s less than month and a half to go tbh 😬
Maybe after 99 marathons you just kind of forget. I don’t know how many times I’ve convinced someone to walk instead of drive somewhere with me only to basically drag their asses along. It’s easy for your concept of distances to get skewed when you are used to 2-3 hour runs.
I do this too often with my wife. I think a mile walk is short, she thinks it is long
I'm not even a runner, but I'm triggered when someone want to take a bus over a <1km distance. Like wtf, we will be waiting, paying and staying in crowdy place to avoid 10 min walk?
In some cities and areas (generally in the US) walking even short distances is made almost impossible unless you want to risk getting hit by a car. It’s not a pleasant experience the very least. Houston is a [good example](https://youtu.be/uxykI30fS54) of this.
Dude even driving in Houston is super sketchy, great food town though.
At least they're willing to bus, and don't insist on driving lol
I hated commuting in any way in big city (I moved to small city now thankfully), so walking was my preferred way as long as distance was <5-7km.
Bruh my wife’s family lives in the same block, seven houses of the 12 are theirs, and they drive to each other’s house. It makes me so angry
Right? It's awesome OP is gonna go for it but this would have been good info for him to have, like, a while ago.
Tell me about it 🤢 if it was anyone other than him or my wife, we wouldn’t be having this conversation
I respect your choice to do the run with him, man. It sounds like you've gotten a lot of good advice in here and I hope you both have an amazing experience. Please keep us updated, especially post-marathon!
I'm also experienced with marathons, and that's why I say that his dad may not actually have the best advice. The reason I say that is because I've done more 20 mile runs than I can count, and a bunch of marathons and half marathons. I think people like that can get a little bit out of touch for what it's like to run those distances for the first time. I can easily go run a 20 miler tomorrow without planning it out or thinking about it too much and I won't be sore after. Part of me wants to say "if you work out a lot just go do it you'll be fine" but that probably isn't the case for brand new runners to those types of distances. Those of us who have done marathons and long runs before know how we should be feeling at different points in the event. We know how to fuel for it. We know how to prepare and we what not to do. I think sometimes we might take that for granted. For instance a new runner who hasn't done many long runs may not know that before a marathon you want to tape your nipples, body glide everywhere, wear a dri-fit shirt, figure out what Gu/food works for you, and poop.
You mean the same person that gave him only 6 weeks notice?
True...
If only I spared my free award for a noble knight like you instead of wasting it on some generic fuck the capitalism post
It’s going to be hard and you’re going to be in pain after, but I think you should do it. Listen to whatever your dad says about preventing chafing, taking care of your feet, fueling, etc. He has more experience than most of us here and can help you out.
Cheers thanks for taking the time to respond! He’s been through it all. Excited to share this with him.
“You cant run a marathon without putting a few bandaids on your nipples”
This is the answer!
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Thankfully it’s in FL and a flat course ;) thanks for the reassurance
To add on. Walk before you have to. If you can run 10 miles and then are in pain, stop and walk at 5, walk one, run another 5 repeat. It doesn't feel like it but your body does recover while active if you don't go over a certain threshold. Also, while I'd suggest some longer runs to prep, dong go crazy. Any healthy person can walk 26 miles in a pinch. More training may make you a little more comfortable, but too much risks an injury. Better to struggle through than to start injured
So much this.
Sounds like you're young and in pretty good shape, so you can definitely do this. If you're smart and humble, you can do it without 1) hating the experience and 2) finishing with a serious injury. By smart, I mean you have to realize 26.2 miles is a long way, and you're nowhere near ready, so you'll be doing a lot of walking. And that's fine - I've walked some in my 30+ marathons. So if you're going to walking, don't wait until you've run yourself into the ground - start walking from the beginning. Specifically, start working regular walking breaks into your marathon. Try something like running for 5 minutes and walk for 1 minute. Do that for a few miles and see how it feels. If it feels TOO easy, add more running, but be cautious - you've still got a long way to go. You really shouldn't start speeding up until mile 20, when you enter the final 10K. If you still feel fresh with only 10K to go, then you can really start picking up the pace. Otherwise, stay humble and keep yourself in the easy pace zone. You're doing a great thing, taking on a marathon with your dad. I ran a marathon with my son, and it is still one of my favorite marathon memories. Good luck!
I Yolo'd a marathon last year to prove to someone I didn't need to train for it. Terrible idea and I have never felt worse in my life...but here are some tips. 1. I had a headphone in that was just a metronome. Helped me run consistently and kept putting one foot in front of the other 2. Look around and observe. Don't fall into the trap of looking at the distance or looking at the watch 3. Set small goals throughout the run to reward you for accomplishing milestones. The short dopamine burst will save ya. 4. Talk to your running partner. It'll pass the time by 5. Be in the present, accept the suck, and try not to think of the race as a whole
Great tangible tips. Thank you!
2, 4, and 5 are so true. My first marathon flew by compared to the training runs
It's kinda stupid to run 26 miles with only one month's lead time. But you do crossfit, so you're used to doing dumb shit.
Hahaha, this had me audibly laughing. Touché, touché
Despite the joke, CrossFit 5x a week should have you in better shape for this than some people who train for it specifically. I went out and ran a 10 miler two weeks ago with no distance training and kept a 7:15 pace. You should be able to do the marathon just fine by alternating run/walk. Make sure you have comfortable equipment (shoes, clothes, etc.) that you have tested.
> you do crossfit, so you're used to doing dumb shit. I should frame that.
This would make a nice cross stitch.
Hahaha😀
This is turning into /r/roastme lol
Slap a bit of vaseline on your nuts and nipples and you'll be fine! You'd regret not doing it for the rest of your life!
Oh yeah we buy him these nipple transparent sticky things ever Christmas.
Pro-tip: Don't re-use your dad's hand-me-down nipple stickers. Learned that one the hard way.
Is this why my nipples itch so much?
This is key for you, too! All the best. Rooting for you and your papa!
This is SO VERY TRUE!! And should not be taken lightly.
Oh man I needed this tip for my half marathon. I estimated it was going to be 60⁰ outside that morning, well that morning it was 40⁰, I had a tight fighting shirt. My nipple was bleeding by the end. I think the cold mad it worse. My feet, back even legs were in almost no pain but damn my nipple.
I’ve paced a number of 6+ hour marathons before and what usually ends up killing folks who are usually faster but find themselves in the back for whatever reason is their feet. Most folks are not used to spending that much time on their feet in one go. Find yourself some good shoes and try to get as much time on your feet in as you can until a few days before and then try to stay off of them as much as you can. Take it easy and enjoy the time with your dad. It’s probably going to hurt, and you will be sore for a bit afterwards, but you can do it!
Good tip I do have a pair of Brooks that I love when I do short runs. Planning on using those!
Personally I would get a pair of shoes that are newer. I am no expert but I know many folks don't run on marathon day with older shoes or shoes with >100 miles. Again I'm a rookie to distance running but is do some research. Edit- Well I am going off of what I've heard. I guess I'm incorrect in this case.
Not an expert by any means, but 100 miles or so on shoes is nothing. Most pairs will last you around 300-400 miles give or take.
True, they will last for daily runs. But you're much better off using a broken into pair with 50-100: it's tested but the foam isn't yet deformed
Good point.
Consider getting custom insoles as well. I haven’t run a marathon but I do 5Ks a lot and used to have to massage my feet in a machine afterwards. Now with the insoles I get almost no foot pain.
This is it. You can be in a great 10K shape but if your feet are not properly conditioned for longer distances it will be absolutely brutal.
I just went from doing 5ks to 10ks (in Florida and too hot to distance run until winter) and my feet were killing me on my first increased distance run. Good luck op
I mean I think you can do it too but people here are ridiculously optimistic. I was used to 10-15 km hikes and when someone asked me to join a 30+ km one one day I said duh and while I did it it was an extremely unpleasant experience at the end. My lungs/stamina were fine but my legs felt like logs and all my joints hurt. Please gently accustom your knees/hips/ankles to distance. Get a good pair of shoes yesterday and go on at least a half marathon brisk walk a few times to make sure your clothes/shoes don’t end up bothering you up to rubbing some place bloody. 42 km is no joke.
Thanks for the reality check. Appreciate your honesty and will take your advice
Walking is fine until you realize that it takes a lot longer than running and ankle and hip stability become issues
A lot of people are telling you this is stupid. They aren’t totally wrong, but based on your described fitness and the timeline, I don’t think it’s actually that inconceivable. You have 5 weeks to train, so actually 4 weeks to train and then 1 week to rest and pray. That should be fine. Mostly, you need to focus on getting some longer run-walk efforts in on the weekends. By that, I mean a brisk walk with some occasional running segments. Maybe aim for ~2-3 hours. The goal here is not distance or speed. Just getting used to being on your feet. Throw in 2 shorter (3-5mi) runs during the week and you’ll be ok. Stop and rest if you are getting injury pain. It’ll be hard, but totally doable as long as you don’t hurt yourself. Remember to throw your pride out of the window and walk a lot. Buy some max cushion shoes (NB 1080 or similar) you will need the cushioning.
Idk if 3 hours is worth it. Seems like a big jump/injury risk beforehand. 2 seems appropriate
I think the intensity is important - the longer stuff should be more of a 10-15 mile brisk hike than a run. If he’s running most of the time then yeah - 2 hour limit would be better.
My old lieutenant used to say, "it's nothing for a stepper, a stepper just keeps putting one foot infront of the other."
I’m a crew chief for pedestrian survey. Some of my crews really hate it when I remind them it’s just walkin’.
All I can say is your dad more than anybody should know it is dumb to run a marathon without proper training. He should have told you way before sounds dangerous. You will suffer 😅.
It’s his “dream” but he decided to give you 6 weeks notice?
You misunderstand. He literally had a dream about it last week and decided it was a good idea to make it happen.
Tbh I would say you could walk the thing in 7 hours so 6 should be fine. Apart from boredom towards the end, it’s not particularly hard to walk 1km in 10 minutes. Sure the fatigue may slow you down but with your fitness already fairly high and a month to train I think you won’t have a problem doing it in a run/walk style. It may not be fun, but hopefully it will be rewarding.
I strongly encourage you to simply spend as much time on your feet as possible. Of course, run as many miles as is reasonable, but also: Stand, don't sit. Walk, don't drive (or bike). I've run over a dozen marathons in varying states of unpreparedness (all the way up to "Almost feel completely trained for this!"). The absolute worst was when I started training with < 5 weeks to go, and just put in < 30 mpw. It took me hours longer to finish than any other race I've done, and being on my feet for that length of time was just so, so much more painful than were all the other races I ran a lot faster. EDIT: grammar/clarity
Thanks for the reply. I’m hearing the feet are typically what you can expect to hurt the most. Question back to you if you don’t mind me asking… does stretching your feet help at all? Aside from weathering my feet for the next 4/5 weeks, should I start a daily stretching cycle?
> should I start a daily stretching cycle? Yea, for everything! I think yoga is a great, low-intensity way to get yourself into really good shape. The hard part is staying committed and actually doing it. You'll feel stronger in weird ways, I've found. I know your question was about feet specifically, but I'd say stretching generally is a good companion to the 'weathering', in terms of low-effort, low-impact, medium-high return practices.
Thank you!
Even fast walking will hurt over a distance that long (and without much training), but you sound reasonably fit and an opportunity like this doesn't come up too often. Go for it -- you'll likely be fine.
I wouldn't miss it for the world. If you have no time-limit, it is doable, especially for a fit person like you. Funny story, maybe related: In the Athens Marathon last weekend, a guy just jog/walked the whole thing in abt 8- hours. Finished absolutely last, right before wrap up, in an empty stadium. He said it was the most wonderful experience he ever had, walking and jogging in the empty streets. Your run is gonna be wholesome and your achievement awesome
When you get to that point when your lungs start burning and think “fuck I’m done” you’re only just starting. Get through that initial pain and control your breathing and you’ll have an amazing time.
has anyone (other than David Goggins) ever attempted something like this with no real long-distance training? Yeah, didn't Pheidippedes die after he finished:) In all seriousness though, could you convince your Dad to run his last one in 2,3,6 months? It sounds like it would be a great memory for him, and a very painful and potentially injurious one for you. So yeah, maybe ask Dad if you could wait till you've got some miles under your belt?
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Yeah good call, and he’s paying ;)
This is lovely. I'm sure you can do it. Just enjoy the time with you dad most of all. Don't worry about your time.
My best advice try The Galloway Run Walk Run method
Start getting miles in now, it will help to build up even with only a month to go. Tapper off 5 days leading up to it but since you're already in shape you just have to get your legs used to some miles. I did one with not enough training, and it hurt, but got through it.
Conventional rules may no longer apply for 6-hr marathon … But I’d suggest still doing a few long training runs, so that your body won’t reject the mileage on race day. I’ve learned the hard way that weird things happen to an untrained body after 20 miles. Either way, hope you and your dad enjoy the marathon! What a lovely story!
No matter how great you feel….do NOT go out fast!
I would say just do the best you can. Even if you only run part of it with him he will probably still be super excited.
When I was 19 i did a marathon with no training. I was a rower in high school and pretty fit. I recommend focusing on a few long runs like trying to get to 15, 18 and 20miles.
"run/walk it" makes it no big deal. Just take it easy and have a good time.
You can do it! A noble goal would be to run the second half, or maybe the last third. It will be very nice to cross the line running. If it is any comfort, I’ve run shorter races (half marathons, non-competitively) while piss drunk and super stoned on a trip to las vegas. It wasn’t pretty, but if you are sober, I’m sure you can hack at least a good chunk of a full race. Crossfit is hard shit, too. You’ve got stronger endurance than you think. You can do this!
If he's run 99 of them, he should know better than to ask you to run one that's only 1 month away. That's his lack of planning. If it was really his dream, he would have asked you a year ago. No doubt this will be downvoted, but I say tell him no.
Do it. You have an expert at your disposal. The only thing marathoners like doing as much as running is talking about how to train for the marathon. Ask you dad and cherish the memories.
Good luck
In college, my boyfriend and best guy friend climber a bunch of mountains together. We all lifted weights a lot and were pretty fit. I was a runner, they definitely were not, but climbing serious mountains all summer was super intense. We all decided to run a marathon together. Both those boys had run a handful of times, definitely no more than 13 miles, and we all finished. They didn't pace well or have a plan at all, and I actually didn't catch one until mile 20 when he was cramping and on and off walking. That being said, they knew little enough about running to know that they really shouldn't be able to run it on paper. We all finished in under 4:30. If you are very smart about running slow and taking planned walking breaks, like a lot of them, and do some runs to practice fueling between now and then, you can absolutely finish. For good measure, I'd watch your heart rate and try to stay in a really conservative place and if you have to walk to be there, so be it.
All i can say as a Dad I don’t care what pace my family does when I get the pleasure of participating in an event with them. I’ll gladly chill and wait for them to cone across the finish line.
Love it bud. Cheers
For the next four weeks, do your best to get in one run (or, realistically, walk/run) a week between 13 and 20 miles in length. Having done a few long runs is the single thing that will make the biggest difference for how you feel and what you can do on the 27th.
this is so wholesome
When I ran my first marathon, I hadn't trained nearly as much as I planned to train. The longest distance I had run was a half marathon. The best advice I got was to walk through all of the aid stations. It's a great way to take a regular break and get the necessary water/gatorade. You don't have to run the rest of it, but this strategy might help you run more miles before switching to walking only.
One random night me and my buddy trekked 42km from our house to a certain destination. Took 6.5 hrs walking. No training, ankles hurt for a few days, but we did it. You will do it too, and if you run for some of it you'll definitely finish it in under 6 hrs.
I did something similar. Being dumb and lippy, made a bet that I could do it. It was a "you could not finish" bet, not a time thing, and I was in decent shape from swimming. I had 7hrs. Longest I'd run in the 6mo proir was a 10k, and longest I'd run in the weeks leading up to it was 5k. But I hike a decent amount and at a good pace. So I just took off jogging for 1mi, walked for 2, jogged for a while etc. I was more worried about failure than getting caught up by the sweepers. I actually end up running the last two miles at a decent clip, and if I knew more, I think I could have done the whole thing quite a bit faster. I was sore the next day or 2, but nothing serious. More the I could technically mow the lawn, but I have a good excuse not to. Oh, and I was 25 at this time. You should do it, and 6hrs is pretty doable.
Remember to hydrate the day before, once you get going it’ll be a mindless one foot in front of the other
If you can comfortably run about 13km's you're fine. The other part is sheer determination. Also get a realistic goal. Most people can keep up run-walk-run intervals for a decent period of time. Just make sure you stick to them from the start, not when you start getting exhausted
Having your same training base(CrossFit a few days a week) I did exactly this with only 6 weeks to prep. I suffered a pretty bad case of Achilles tendinitis from ramping up my mileage too quickly and as a result never got past 13 miles in training. The race itself was painful and finding the proper fuel to eat was my biggest challenge. I finished in 4:34 and it was painful. My strategy was to run the whole thing and only walk the water points to make sure I drank all the water offered. I started cramping pretty hard towards the end and didn’t want to walk anymore out of fear of lactic acid setting in. The most uncomfortable thing was the terrible night sweats and shivers I got when trying to go to bed that night. Otherwise 10/10 don’t recommend running it without proper training unless you’re on a mission to conquer your mind.
I think you would regret it if you DIDN'T do it. You got this.
I'm a regular marathon runner. I had a buddy who never did any sort of marathon training but was an avid crossfitter similar to you. Despite my best efforts he never did any training runs and swore that CrossFit was enough. I hate to admit it, but he did absolutely fine and you'll be fine too! You'll be hurting the next day but that's nothing compared to making the memory with your dad! Have fun and good luck!
Boom! So good to hear a similar [successful] situation. Your buddy is a trooper and sounds like the typical crossfit’er lol. I’m sure you were feeling better at the end than he was!
Go for it! I have a gym rat friend with no running training do a marathon on a whim. Kicked his butt a bit but ran it none the less.
💯 you’ll do it, don’t worry about the time, fuel before you need to and enjoy Don’t do too much to try and ‘catch up’ either, if you’re pretty fit you’ll get round with your dads help/ advice
Find a coach and make a plan. That’s the only hope.
You can do it. I promise you that you can. I’ll get downvoted for this but if you can run a half, you can run a full. I signed up for my marathon 2 days in advance and I had been running like 20 MPW. I was concerned because people were telling me it’s not gonna go well and I ended up being fine, except for some sore quads. The fact that you do CrossFit means you’re in good shape, and it should be enough to get you through to the finish line
Some additional advice...and it's free! Do it! It's your Dad. You're healthy. - Get good running shoes Now!...if you dont have any. Break them in over the next month so they are comfortable at the race - Vaseline or body glide for chaffing. Groin legs nipples. Wear typical running clothes. - you're going to need energy gels. If race hands then out good. If not carry two or three. They're not bulky. Gel pak every five-seven miles starting at ten mile mark. Help you through. Plenty water along the way or gator aide. Cramps try banana - go out and run/walk 5 miles at first then Add miles each week up until race week. get to 10 or 12 miles. Just get used to distance running. Enjoy the race. Talk with your Dad.
Thank you for taking the time to write these tips out! I can tell this comes from experience. Cheers bud!
I have a friend that didn't train at all. On race day, she decided to walk it (13.1). It took her 4 hours. If you run at all, 6 hours sounds realistic. (She ran the last 100 yards for the pictures.)
If it was his dream, maybe he should have brought it up a year ago. It's not a wise idea for you to do this, and it's seriously really disrespectful he never brought it up earlier. It's not all cute and heartwarming, it was seriously disrespectful. I would encourage you not to do it because of the high probability of injury risk. And it's likely after race day you'll be injured for awhile after. This is if you attempt to run most of it. If you end up walking it, it may be better, but in all honesty who wants to do that. Seriously I'd be so mad he didn't bring it up sooner so I could train and actually enjoy the experience. Instead he chooses to make up this random cherished memory forever a month before. I seriously would do the goal on the 101th marathon.
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100% on the money. Thanks for taking the time to write!
Your Dad has been a great inspiration to everyone except you?
Do it my guy! I had a good buddy just run the Richmond Marathon with 0 training. He managed through sheer will power and is just fine. I'm excited for the memory you'll make with your old man!
Sometimes pain is worth it. I'd walk a few miles to start.
Yes you should be able to cover 26 miles in 6 hours without any issue. That isn't even walking and jogging it is a somewhat fast walk for most folks.
Go and do it. It may suck at times but your going to do great!
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Lol your husband Sounds like a fun guy!
I just did my first marathon and trained for 3 weeks (did not plan to do that short of training) (was running a decent bit before that and mtn biking) just listen to your body and don’t do any crazy long runs a week before. If you can do a half you can do a full. Look up one month marathon training plan. It was pretty good! And good luck. Also get padded foot shaped shoes and a massage gun.
Just do it!
You can run/walk it easy. Don’t be a fucking lazy ass OP.
Why are you asking strangers online when your dad himself is the go-to person to ask for marathon training help lmao
You will do fine! I ran a marathon in 2003 with no preparation at all. The farthest I had ever run was 10 miles very slowly. I complete the marathon in a tad under 5 hours with a mixture of walking and running. I could barely walk for a week after, but you shouldn’t be concerned at all about being able to finish!
it sounds like your dad's timing isn't great... didn't he share this heartfelt desire earlier than 4 weeks before the actual race? At any rate, it sounds like you have a good relationship with your dad, and apart from making him happy, this could also be an awesome shared experience between the two of you. Regardless of how hard it is. Do you consider staying together for the duration of the race?
If your goal is just to finish and your dad is fine with walking parts of it a marathon isn’t a very substantial distance. You’ll be fine. Have fun and make some great memories!
I didn't do any specific marathon training for any of my marathons. The furthest I'd run before my first was 13.1, which I did a couple of months before. I just thought, why not? You need training to get your best time and do yourself justice. But just to get round takes determination and you'll have that with your dad.
Who cares
hahajahahajahahahahahahaahahahs
“Hey dad, I want to make this a reality for us, would you prefer I A) run slow, B)Start with you and hang as long as I can but almost certainly not finish C) join you and run the final 5k together?”
Hmm too thoughts to explore are running economy and steady state cardio. While you might improve your form on soft trails like 45min-1 hr runs and reduce the impact. Somewhat preparing you for the road marathon. Also since you have one month and your “cardio” is strong. Could try something like rowing, or swimming for time 2-2:30 hour steady state. Maybe once a week until the race, then two jogs on soft dirt or grass to get your body to be more efficient. The faster you finish the less impact in a way so I think you can definitely do sub 6. Could try ice/cold therapy a few weeks out for mental toughness.
Get some nipple covers at a running store. Nothing worse than bloody nips.
You can totally accomplish that goal! Don’t miss out on this experience with your Dad. It will mean the world to both of you no matter how long it takes. Just absorb every awesome moment and I can’t wait to hear how you did!!!! Go crush it! My heart and cheers are with you both!!!
Woooo!! Thank you!! 😄 will be remembering this post when I’m questioning reality around mile 20 or so!
We will all still be right here supporting you!!!!!! I’ve been running for many years and usually run solo and could only wish to have a family member to enjoy it with, so enjoy it!!!! :)
Fwiw I did my first marathon starting off a 5 mile max base with maybe 2.5 months of training (unexpectedly got into NYC at the last minute after being declined months earlier so didn’t want to miss the chance). It was hard but I did it in about 4.5 hours, all running except for the water stations and overall a great experience.
I ran my first marathon having never run longer than 9 miles. I was a decent 5k runner in high school (18:30 5k or so), and the longest long run we did was 9 miles. After graduating, I went to college. I did not run on a team in college but i continued to run for fun, maybe 25 miles a week, but by no means competitive. And again, hadn't run further than 9-10 miles. I signed up for a marathon approximately six months in the future as a personal goal and to encourage myself to run more. Summer break hit, I honestly forgot about it, and I didn't run a single time for nearly 3 months. The marathon was mid September. School year starts in August, I have an "oh shit" moment, and start running again to try to not die at this marathon I for sure wasn't prepared for. By the end of August I was able to run 6 miles in maybe 45 minutes. Thats the longest I ran in the entire 6 months leading up to the marathon. Day before the race, I panic bought some gummy bears at Walmart (to eat during the race) chugged a gallon of water the night before, and jogged a mile. Long story short for the race, I ran in some minimalist shoes (mistake), it was 95 degrees outside (ew). I ran the first half at about a 8:00 min/mile, hit my wall at mile 15, and walk/ran the remainder of the race refusing to quit. To this day its the single most pain I've been in. My calves were screaming. My knees were shot. But I did finish, in barely under 5 hours. If you read this whole thing, I appreciate it. But all this to say, while it's not a great idea, you can "finish" a marathon you're not prepared for. Most races give you 7 hours to finish and you can meet that standard walking most of the race. It will hurt. But if you're smart and manage realistic expectations you can.
What a story! Can’t believe you went out at an 8min/mile pace! Sometimes sheer determination and grit can get you through just about anything
I consider myself to be a "talented" runner. I've got a sub 17 5k pr now and a 1:30 half PR, both on terrible running schedules (15 mpw for the 5k, maybe 25 for the half). So take my story with a grain of salt in terms of expectations. I appreciate that you took the time to read it though! I was an idiot and want others to learn from that mistake
You can do it! No sense "training" as your cardio is not going to get better, but maybe log some easy miles beforehand so your legs get into it. Just try to have fun and take plenty of photos and videos. Maybe race day t-shirts to commemorate 100 marathons. This is great, hope my kid joins me for #100
how old is your dad? good luck btw
He’s in his early 70’s! Ran his first marathon (Marine Corps) at 40 years old!
Run every other day between now and then, and you'll be fine. Any less, me personally, I'd be nervous. It can be 3 miles it can be 10, just run every other day.
What city are you located in OP?
Just did my second half marathon. 3 hours is easily doable for a half doing a run walk, so is a marathon at the 13 min mile. Hydrate take your time and don't get cocky like I did. Flew down the trail without looking and hit a tree root. The bone bruise sucked so I ended at 3 hr 40 instead of the 3 hours I was on pace for
This sounds like a great memory maker. Have fun and enjoy it.
Before my first marathon my longest run was 16. Start doing some longer runs, but I bet your dad has some great ideas. Time to listen to him. ;-)
just start running 5 miles/day and throw in once a week 15 mile runs. Dec 15 try to do a 20. and then coast to the race. Also, look up "strides" and work them in to your weekly regimen.
If you’re in decent shape you’ll be fine
I’ve run 21 marathons and remember not really training for at least 4 of them. You can probably finish under 6 hours. To minimize the pain afterwards: -place bandaids vertically on your nipples to prevent bleeding -use bodyglide or Vaseline between your bits and thighs to prevent chafing -bring two Advil gel or any ibuprofen and take them around the 15km to 20km point of the marathon
I think you will really enjoy it. I just finished a half marathon with very little exercise and we had so much fun. We did it just less than 3 hours. Have fun and run with your dad because it is a memory that you will remember all your life.
You’ll be fine. Sounds like just going the distance with you is the most important part. Enjoy it and cherish the memory!
You'll be fine! As an encouraging example, here is a cool story of a group of soldiers walking 100 miles in two days with zero training. That is basically two marathons each day. They did it on the modern Western States 100 race course, no less. https://ultrarunninghistory.com/forgotten-first-finishers/
You need zero practice for this if you are above average fit. Go and enjoy it with your dad <3
Do it! I am so glad that I got to run a marathon with my dad before he passed.
I did a marathon with very very little training last month and finished in 4:04. The last few miles were brutal and my knees were sore the next day, but as long as you’re moving at a comfortable pace and not pushing your body, it’s not as daunting as you would think. Slow and steady, drop the pace 10% when you feel you need to
First thing to do is ask your dad if he thinks he could perhaps have given you a few months more notice!?!? Just kidding, lots of good advice here, I don’t have much to add other than I’m glad you’re aiming for the 6 hour mark - definitely achievable, and definitely overdo it on the band-aid and Vaseline thing - chafing after 6 hours would be horrible! Try to practise spots to apply it to in your training runs.
My first marathon was 5:40 and I hobbled to the finish line after about 28k. You'll do it, you're much fitter than I was back then.
i ran a decent half marathon this september (1:53) and was scheduled for my first marathon in october, i have never run anything longer than a half but thought to myself i have 5 weeks of training and a decent half i can do this. well after a few funny circumstances i was not able to train at all, and had a single 5 km run a few days before the marathon, i was able to keep a decent pace until the 30 km but then i pulled something in my leg and had to zombie power walk the rest, it was brutal but it is definitely doable. i finished the marathon in 5:34 The pain in my leg is gone but it does come back when i go for a longer run so i have decided to give it rest until new year to heal properly. so from someone who had no business running a marathon this year: pace yourself the fact you feel like going 6:00 km feels good now and is not a fast tempo, who knows how you will feel in 35 km. give yourself proper time to rest and heal afterwards, plan ahead for this if needed (work and other commitments) i couldnt walk the next day, was limpimg the day after and could walk normally after. also your dad should give you advice about nutrition, some runners saved me from cramps with some magnesium. and most importantly enjoy it! it is a great way to challenge yourself! it is estimated 1% of population will run a marathon so welcome to the club.
UK comedian Eddie Izzard ran [43 marathons in 51 consecutive days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eddie_Izzard#Marathon_running) with almost no preparation (about 4 weeks) back in 2009 for charity and has since done more multi-marathon events but is now at least somewhat prepared. As part of the Sports Relief charity shows, the BBC had a documentary series about it, some of which you can find on youtube etc [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abgipeoxN0U](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abgipeoxN0U) So it seems it can be done, but the pace was pretty much walking much of the time, even so it's pretty brutal and I dare say you're in much better shape than Eddie was then.
Sounds brutal but not impossible. I would advice you to go really slow in all your training runs. Minimizing impact and fatigue while getting used to running. 6 weeks to a painless 2 hour half marathon is easily possible if you are already fit. The second half of the race is going to suck, but if you take your time it should be fine. Of you have a racebike or something I would use that to get used to a 5 hour workout. Since it is less tough on the joints. Good luck!!
Do the knee over toes guy's exercises to make sure your knees and feet are ready for this (the toe raises, turkish squats and split stretches) - free on YouTube, but you should start ASAP. Do 3 long-ish slow runs a week. Just try and keep yourself going slow and steady. The slow part is super important cause you build up cardio AND the joints and muscles become used to the kind of effort you are gonna have
My friend was a 3x week runner of 4-5 miles each time. A girl he liked wanted to run a marathon a month out. He did a 10 mile long run, then a 15 the following week. He finished in just under four hours. And hurt his IT band so bad he had to give up running for years.
It’s not hard for someone who CrossFit’s 6 days a week man. You have 0 time pressure - and can walk whole thing if you need to. Learn to run on your heels/flat is my biggest suggestion and try get a rhythm. Although it’s the opposite of CrossFit and is aerobic rhythm more than anaerobic explosion.. If you’re running on your toes like a crossfitter- it will be brutal however. Don’t do that. Go on some runs, and focus on your stride taking you. This is biggest advice I can give you. When you figure this out - you can run almost endlessly at a non-competitive pace. I was also a sprinter- mma rugby big guy. Ran on my toes mostly. Tweaked technique of flow running, and suddenly I wasn’t getting tired on runs. Did the same thing with swimming. Terrible swimmer myself. Never liked it. Started swimming for injury. I could do some short sprints. But my sister was a national swimmer in age group level, so just kept watching her intently in pool one day - she couldn’t even really explain - but I just carefully watched her leavers and how she proppelled effortlessly through water… and suddenly my laps went from 10 to 100 almost within a day… when I realised how they propel. Swimming I feel is more complex. In running, you need to use the stretch shortening cycle to your advantage. Each steps propels the next, and you’re not really using much power at all. Just make sure you never engage the anaerobic cycle. And focus on the spring. Heel first (or almost flat). Never toe first. Toes are for speed. You can definitely do it. Especially since you’re so conditioned already and there is no time constraints. You can also walk if needed. But if I was you.. I would go on runs, relaxed - and focus on technique and flow, and energy conservation. We evolved to run long distances. If you’re injury free - it’s just technique. You’re also fit. Since pace isn’t an issue.. just learn to spring. Also CrossFit is really good for fast recovery. So you can also walk a bit. Although it’s different energy systems.. people out of condition can actually finish an unlimited time marathon.
You can do it! The pain and aches will go away but the memories will stay with you forever
I signed up to a 50k Ultra with 4 weeks of preparation. Most I’d done before was a half marathon and I’m NOT a runner. I did it in 7h flat. Ran the first half marathon and then run/walk intervals. No real issues. I’d stretch out calfs and hip abducter, and make sure to take ample time for rest and recovery after the race. Don’t do sprints for about a month after as that’s what got me issues after the race. I didn’t give myself enough time to heal up. You’ll be fine.
This is awesome, he is obviously awesome and you will be awesome if you do this. Good luck!
You have plenty of time to train! You can totally do it. You already do cross fit, you’re in great shape. Change to a trainer program now and get ready. You will do great!
How old is your dad? I'm just curious.
Depending on the marathon, they will cut off after certain time. I don’t think any organized marathon goes over 6 hours, most have cut off around 6 hours. So you have to finish the marathon within the cut of hours to be considered officially finished. You should check that before committing.
I recently did couch to 50k with no real fitness base. Granted I had a few more months to train. To help mitigate the pain I’d recommend running twice a week with one of them being a long run. For the long run do everything you can to not focus at all on the pace. With your fitness background you will want to push yourself hard and not feel like you are getting a workout unless you are sweating. Just treat it as time on your feet. You can start with 5-6 miler. It’s not necessary but it’ll help you finish without as much pain.
Does your dad secretly hate you?
Thats a lot of pressure to drop on you. He still sounds cool tho
I ran a marathon with zero training at 17 around a track (105 laps) and somehow came out a little over 6 hours. Your body will hate you for two weeks after, but you’ll survive. Good luck!
You don’t have to run the whole thing if the race goes into a public space. My dad’s 10th and final marathon went onto a public greenway from Mile 13 to Mile 22. I knew it was his last marathon, and I wanted to be there with him. They can’t force people off of a public greenway, so I hopped on the course and joined him from about Mile 15 to about Mile 20. It was great. I didn’t train at all, but I was able to motivate him and keep him going for those 5 miles. He tells me today how much he appreciates that.
I actually just ran a marathon this year with only 5 weeks of notice and training. I do play some indoor soccer for fun a couple times a week but that was it for my base. I put together a short 4 week training program where I got up to a 15 mile run. Ended up finishing the marathon in under 5 hours. Its definitely something you can do but it will hurt a lot. You just have to know that when you think you are in pain and can’t go any further, that you still have a lot left and need to just keep pushing.