Last year, I decided to run a marathon. Having never competed in a race farther than a half-marathon, I had no idea the type of training that was required for attempting to run 26.2 miles. I was an inexperienced runner who simply thought running a marathon was a cool idea. Needless to say, I was ill-prepared for the actual commitment needed to mentally and physically handle a marathon. Luckily I found RUN NYC and when it came time to begin my 26.2 journey, I was ready.

With the beginning of summer (the official start is Saturday), the focus of many runners has turned to preparation for this year’s fall marathon season. With the usual array of marathons to choice from - New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Marine Corps, and the Hamptons – every runner, from novice to veteran, must begin with a training schedule.

With that in mind, starting on June 19th, make RUN NYC your destination for training, as registration for this year’s 26.2 Training program begins. This all-inclusive, 17-week program will allow you to gain insight and guidance into the world of marathon training from experienced marathon coaches Yves-Marc Courtines and Terence Gerchberg.

By registering, you will receive an in-training shirt and have the exciting opportunity to train with some of the most dedicated runners while also experiencing all that running in New York City has to offer. Some of the suggested training runs include: Lower Manhattan Run, GW Bridge Run, 59^th Street Repeat Run, and of course, the last 10 miles of NYC Marathon course. Naturally, any runner participating in a fall marathon should feel confident in knowing that specific workouts will be tailored to meet individual needs. In addition to the training program, RUN NYC has invited a special guest speaker to stop by to discuss and reinforce the basic principles of training, the benefits of certain workouts, and the importance of following a set schedule.

With the marathon season quickly approaching, its time to start planning your training and the only place to receive the in-depth preparation required for a marathon is at RUN NYC. Training runs begin Saturday, 7/12 at 8:30AM at Niketown New York (6 East 57^th St).