How important is the mental aspect of training for and running marathons?
Very much of running long distance is mental. You have to think positively, stay focused and have confidence in yourself. I think visualization is an important tool. See yourself in the race running strong and telling yourself you can do it. No negative thoughts or doubts. You have done your homework, which is the hardest part of marathon running. What is the most common training mistake that first-time marathoners make? Starting their real marathon training too early and getting injured. If the race is in the fall you don’t have to run 18 to 20 miles in May. If they get injured they easily panic, thinking they will lose fitness if they have to take a short break. Cross-train and see a doctor to identify the problem if you don´t know. What is the most common race-day mistake that first-time marathoners make? Getting carried away on race day and not sticking to the plan. Are you surprised by the continued growth in the popularity of marathons? Why do they continue to grow? I am not real
