Every marathoner starts somewhere. In fact, even a non-runner can work up to running a marathon in 20 weeks or less. As long as you have a good pair of running shoes, (and don't have any medical concerns that would prevent you from running long distances) you can run a marathon. The reasons people decide to run a marathon vary as vastly as the people that run them. Some are seeking purely a physical challenge, others a mental and emotional rush. Others recognize that they feed on life-changing events, such as births and weddings, and crave another such event. What all marathoners will agree on is that running a marathon will change your life. Most will feel a significant boost in self-confidence, and a better handle on how to control one's own life. Often it is a major step on a road to a lifetime of physical endurance. Many report on a significant higher pain threshold. And all will tell you that you get to know yourself in a whole different way. If any of this sounds good to you, go out and get yourself a good pair of running shoes, and read on.

Web sites on Training for Your First Marathon

• MarthonGuide.com: First Marathons
• Runner's World.com: Beginning Runners Guide
• Running Planet.com: Marathon Training Program for Beginning Competitors
• Cool Running: Beginner Marathon Program
• MarathonTraining.com: Marathon Training, Resources and a Newsletter

Books on Training for Your First Marathon

• The Non-Runner's Marathon Trainer
• 4 Months to a 4 Hour Marathon
• Marathon: You Can Do It!
• Best Half Marathons: Jog, Run, Train or Walk & Race The Half-marathon

Web sites on Training for Seasoned Runners

• Half-Marathon Training
• Marathon Training Program
• Cool Running: Intermediate Marathon Program
• Cool Running; Advanced Marathon Program
• Cool Running: Competitive Marathon Program
• MarathonTraining.com: Training, Resources, Monthly Newsletter

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