Marathon FAQ

Question: How should I pace myself?

Answer: If this is your first marathon, I recommend running at a conservative training pace-adding two minutes to the pace predicted by the magic mile (as an all-out pace), and adjust for temperatures above 60℉ (15℃). If you are attempting a time goal, and have done all of the training elements correctly, take your best magic mile time during the last month of training, multiply by 1.3 and adjust for non-ideal conditions such as crowd, hills and temperature. It is always best to run 10-20 seconds per mile slower than you believe you can run, during the first 5-6 miles.

Jeff Galloway Resources: jeffgalloway.com Visit the E-Shop where you will find “Galloway’s Marathon FAQ” and other books for your running library. You will also find training tips, training groups, running retreats and more. 

Jeff Galloway smiling near a lake with city skyline in the distance.
Jeff Galloway

Jeff Galloway, US Olympian and creator of the Run-Walk-Run method, has helped over 350,000 runners achieve their goals through his innovative training programs. As Runner's World's monthly columnist and author of North America's best-selling running book, Jeff has spent over 50 years sharing his expertise and continues to conduct running seminars worldwide as runDisney's Official Training Consultant.

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