Training to Walk a Marathon

Walker Friendly Marathons have Flat Courses and Generous Time Limits

Oct 31, 2009

Marathons are becoming popular events among walkers. Training for walking a marathon is a great way to get into shape. Crossing the finish line is priceless!

In past year, the challenge of finishing a marathon was a feat reserved only for runners. Now, many walkers are getting in on the action, from the casual athlete walking for fitness to racewalkers who maintain a particular style and speed on the course. Walking a marathon is an impressive accomplishment!

Marathon Training Programs for Walkers

Nearly anyone can train to walk a marathon. The first rule for any new athlete is to see their health care provider to insure that they are able to safely train for a marathon. Once they have the green light, it's time to choose a marathon training plan. Many are available, even some specific to walking a marathon, such as those in the book Marathoning for Mortals by John Bingham. Marathon training programs designed for runners can be used for walkers simply by following the same mileage recommendations. To complete the 26.2 miles required for walking a marathon, walkers need to train to be on their feet for 6 to 7 hours or more.

Choosing a Marathon

Walkers should look for races that offer generous time limits. Most marathon walkers will be maintaining a pace of about 14 to 16 minutes per mile. This means it will take between 6 and 7 hours to finish the race. An online pace calculator such as that found at McMillan Racing can be used to help estimate finish time based on the pace at which the walker is training.

A flat course is also helpful for keeping up a consistent speed. Larger races are generally more walker friendly as they expect to have athletes of varying abilities out on the course. Destination marathons can be a great way to combine the race experience with a vacation. The following are considered to be walker friendly marathons.

Walt Disney World Marathon

Walking this January marathon will include approximately 20,000 or more athletes. The course is flat with much entertainment along the way, including cast members and Disney characters. Many spectators are also on the course to offer support to the athletes during the marathon. Disney requires racers to finish within 7 hours, a 16 minute pace per mile.

Honolulu Marathon

The Honolulu Marathon takes place annually in December. The course is open from 5 am to 2 pm, a generous 9 hour time limit. Many support services will still be in place until 4 pm, allowing an additional two hours. Race directors allow everyone that starts the race to finish.

Rock n Roll Marathon Series

The Rock n Roll Marathon Series takes place in various cities throughout the U.S. at different times during the year. Most offer a party atmosphere and a 7-hour time limit. Cities include:

For More Information on Marathon Walking

The website, Marathon Walking, includes quite a bit of information for walkers who want to train for a marathon including a race calendar, training plans and tips.

The copyright of the article Training to Walk a Marathon in Running Marathons/Races is owned by Melissa Murfin. Permission to republish Training to Walk a Marathon in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.