The goal of our Marathon Training programs is to prepare members to meet their individual goals: be it running a first marathon or setting a personal best. Coaches will help participants adapt the training plans to their individual goals, experience level, and running abilities. Training for a marathon is challenging yet rewarding. Doing it with us offers a fun and supportive team environment.
This year we are once again offering two options to help marathon training participants achieve their marathon goals. The two options allow you to self-select into the right training intensity/pace for your experience level. Both options are the same price and will have similar structure and will coordinate some mid-week training sessions together. However, please note the two programs hold their long runs on different weekend days – Base-building on Sundays and Run/Walk on Saturdays. See below for further details.
Cost
The training program fee for either option is $85, which includes a training t-shirt and snacks and water at group training runs. The program fee does not include any race registration fees, so please remember to register separately for your target/graduation race.
REGISTER HERE
Option 1: Base-Building (Advanced) Marathon Training
Led by PGRC‘s Paul, Chris, Torey, and Cat. Participants will train for a longer period that starts by building a running base, then gradually increasing in volume and intensity over a 24-week period. Though this group will start slower and at a lower mileage, the training will increase to an intermediate/advanced level. Participation in the entirety of this program is best for individuals who intend to run the entire marathon distance – others might consider starting this program and then switching to the Run/Walk option when it starts.
Participants
The Base-Building program is recommended for runners who have the ability to complete a long run of at least 60 minutes and previous training experience – this may include training for shorter races or even running previous marathons.
Timeline
- Start Date: June 1, 2025
- Duration: ~ 6 Months
- Target Graduation Race: Richmond Marathon* (November 15, 2025)
*Race registration fees not included in training program fees. Please register separately.
Program Structure
During the peak phases of the plan, participants should expect to run 5-7 times a week. The training group will meet for three group workouts – a weekend long run and two mid-week interval/threshold workouts. All other runs will be on your own but can include other weekly club runs.
Training Group Workouts:
- Sundays at 7:00 am – Mission BBQ, Greenbelt (Google Maps Link)
- Tuesdays at 6:45 pm – Kehoe Track at Ludwig Field, UMD, College Park (Google Maps Link)
- Thursdays at 6:30 pm – Herbert Wells Ice Rink, College Park (Google Maps Link)
Option 2: Run/Walk (Beginner) Marathon Training
Led by Coaches Yvonne and LaTayna, the beginner option will focus on runners who are new to long distance running.
Participants
Runners of all levels of experience are welcome, although you should be able to complete at least 5K at any pace before starting the program. If you’re interested in participating in the program this year, we highly recommend that you enter the program with a sound fitness base.
Timeline
- Start Date: June 14, 2025
- Duration: ~ 4 Months
- Target Graduation Race: Marine Corps Marathon* (October 26, 2025)
*Race registration fees not included in training program fees. Please register separately.
Program Structure
During the peak phases of the plan, participants should expect to run 5-7 times a week. The training group will meet for two group workouts – a weekend long run and a mid-week interval/threshold workout. All other runs will be on your own, but can include other weekly club runs.
Training Group Workouts:
- Saturdays at 7:00 am – Mission BBQ, Greenbelt (Google Maps Link)
- Tuesdays at 6:45 pm – TBD
- Thursdays at 6:30 pm – Herbert Wells Ice Rink, College Park (Google Maps Link)
Program Requirements (Both Options)
- Anyone ages 18 and up with the ability to walk and willingness to run.
- An active PGRC club membership is required. If you are not yet a member, you will be prompted to join PGRC during registration.
Required Supplies & Equipment (Both Options)
- Water (bring to every session)
- Proper running shoes
Recommended Supplies & Equipment (Both Options)
- Hat with a visor (Saturday morning training)
- Sunglasses (Saturday Morning training)
- Sunscreen
- Hydration Vest
- Energy bars/gels/chews of your choosing
- Proper sports bras (women)
- Watch, stopwatch or an app for interval timing purposes
Medical Clearance
If you are under medical care, have a medical condition, or have not exercised recently, we recommend you secure clearance from your doctor before participating in this or any training program.
REGISTER HERE
The registration page will display both program options. Please choose only one. You will be able to switch between the two if you would like, but please keep in mind that the Base-Building program starts several weeks before the Run/Walk program. If you wish to participate in the Base-Building prior to the start of the Run/Walk, you should register for the Base-Building option and a switch can be made later.
If you’re interested but have more questions, come and join us at any of the weekly club runs throughout May and June or email us at training@pgrc.org.
We look forward to training with you!