How to plan your racing schedule

It’s that time of year when runners scour the racing calendar for suitable events in the months ahead. But how do you decide how often to run? Our guide offers a few handy marathon tips.

Everybody wants to set personal records when they race, and there may be a temptation to target every event in an attempt to achieve them - but can you be sure entering every race will make you more competitive?

Unlike many other sports, running has no off-season, with events taking place all the time. Careful planning is therefore necessary to maintain maximum performance and avoid burnout.

Consider the following steps when planning your marathon racing schedule for the year ahead.

Don’t overcommit

Your body can only take so much and must be properly cared for. Too many races can diminish the effectiveness of your training.

You should plan 16-to-24-week training cycles around peak racing periods, allowing for breaks and reductions in training volume. Bear in mind that major events in the northern hemisphere typically take place in the spring and autumn.

Train in cycles

Focus on speed in the hotter months, which are better for shorter, faster workouts, to help you prepare for the autumn.

Incorporate tune-up racing into your training to gauge how well it is going, and assess how mentally and physically prepared you are.

Be selective

Avoid aimlessly signing up for every race. Quality over quantity - ultimately, are you looking to race fast or race often?

For further advice on training for races, contact specialist online running coach Maximum Mileage Coaching today to discuss a marathon training schedule designed to suit you.

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