08/11/2026
Just finished an Autumn marathon and with 6 - 8 weeks before I think about my spring marathon block starting. I’m not jumping straight back into marathon training. First comes two/three weeks of easy running to recover properly, even though the legs feel good. Then I’ll work on the things a marathon block doesn’t train much: short hill sprints, strides and some 5K-pace sessions to build top-end speed, with a controlled threshold session every week or two. I’m also lifting heavy twice a week, heavy strength work improves running economy and it works for us 40+ runners too. And I’m getting off the roads onto trails and hilly routes, running by effort, not pace (head torch at the ready 🔦). Use the winter to build both the engine and the body, so January’s block starts on stronger foundations. Save this for your off-season 👇