Health Tip: Preparing for a Marathon

(HealthDay News) -- If you''re considering running a marathon, you''ll need a carefully planned training schedule to avoid injury. Here are suggestions on how to prepare for the race, courtesy of the Cleveland Clinic:

• Start training at least 18 weeks before the marathon. Ideally, you should have been running regularly for at least a year before the actual race.
• Take time off every week from running to let your body rest and prevent injury. You should not run every day.
• Follow up a very strenuous run with an easier day. By alternating strenuous and lighter workouts, you''ll help prevent injury.
• Three weeks before the marathon should be your last long run. Your body will need that time before the marathon to rest.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Dec. 4, 2006

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