"THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO MARATHON TRAINING," by David A. Levine and Paula Petrella, Penguin Group, $18.95, 302 pages (nf)
Jumping into the marathon ring can be a bit intimidating, as can be some of the veteran marathon runners. Those relatively new to the sport are full of questions, but may not want to ask them for fear of being branded as, well, an “idiot.”
No need to worry because “The Complete Idiot‘s Guide to Marathon Training” by David A. Levine and Paula Petrella answers everything from how
to pick a marathon to how to recover post-race. Not sure what a “fartlek” is? No worries. They cover that. Confused about carbo-loading? They deal with that, too.
If you’ve never run a step in your life, they help you formulate a plan to get out the door. If you’ve been running for a little while, but this is your first foray into the marathon distance, they have a training plan for you, as well.
It does a great job anticipating common psychological and physical stumbling blocks that many new marathon runners face and gives solid advice on overcoming those obstacles. There are tips on setting realistic goals and overcoming performance anxiety. They also suggest helpful strategies to prepare mentally for the big day.
While the information is plentiful and broad, it does not get into great detail. There are helpful tips on avoiding injury, but for those looking for more unconventional advice or treatment plans, you best look elsewhere. The strength training and stretching suggestions are basic at best, but are also accompanied by pictures. As this book is geared toward the beginner, this is a smart approach as it is easy to become overwhelmed by the overabundance of advice and training plans out in the running universe.
Experienced runners will find this book a bit pedestrian, but as someone who has run more than a dozen marathons, there were some useful information about recovery and fueling on the run.
Overall, “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Marathon Training” is simple, straightforward, easy to read, and covers a wide range of topics relevant to a beginning marathoner. A wise investment to get you started down the road of your first marathon.
Kim Cowart is a wife, mother, 24-Hour Fitness instructor and marathoner who realizes that the more she learns about running, the less she knows.