The Marathon and Half Marathon: A Training Guide [Paperback]

Graeme Hilditch (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 22, 2007

As this study shows, the popularity of the marathon and half marathon has increased dramatically in recent years. Growing numbers of people have become aware of the life-changing experiences and the health benefits that result from training for, and competing in, a 13.1 - or 26.2 - mile race. Notwithstanding this, these events are extremely testing endurance races and entrants need to be properly informed so that they can train and prepare in an appropriate way. This handbook discusses everything you need to know, including choosing the right clothes and running shoes, the importance of stretching and core stability, and even post-race nutrition and hydration.   

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Graeme Hilditch runs a private and exclusive personal training business in rural Gloucestershire, specializing in helping people prepare for endurance running events. The author of twelve marathon training guides used by charities such as Spinal Research and the Multiple Sclerosis Trust, and founder of www.marathonconsultancy.co.uk, Graeme has extensive experience in preparing runners for the physical and mental challenges that endurance running presents.

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Crowood Press (October 22, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1861269633
• ISBN-13: 978-1861269638
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.5 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #781,796 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #100 in Books > Health, Fitness & Dieting > Exercise & Fitness > Marathons

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Well worth the money - thank God for this book!, September 29, 2008

By 

ag (CA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Marathon and Half Marathon: A Training Guide (Paperback)

I bought this book in the UK last year after a recommendation from a friend, who said it was the top ranked marathon training book on Amazon in the UK. After reading it and following its advice, I can see why.

If you are new to marathon or half marathon running, this is the only book you need.

After I had my baby, I set myself a goal to run in my first marathon and this book helped me every step of the way. It has great pictures which help to break up the text and it's easy and entertaining to read. It covers everything from training to nutrition to injuries and most importantly of all - it's realistic. This book spoke to me far more than 3 of the top ranked books on the Amazon here and I'm amazed this gem of a book has not really been discovered yet.

I never thought I'd say this, but seeing that I enjoyed the last marathon so much I am now thinking of doing another one! I lost the last 20lbs of my baby weight last time, so it'll be a great way to stay in shape.

So, if you want to enjoy your running and spend a little extra on a great marathon training book, you will not regret buying this. I think I'll buy the author's other book on fitness myths. If this one is anything to go by, it'll surely be a great read.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent professional advice in layman's language., May 18, 2009

By 

C. F. Barker - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Marathon and Half Marathon: A Training Guide (Paperback)

As a beginner and somewhat reluctant not to mention daunted runner, I have found this book is brilliant. It is well researched and covers everything needed to prepare for any type of endurance running. Far from confusing me further with professional jargon and reams of in depth technical information, it explains in a clear, realistic and humorous manner exactly what is needed to train. Aside from giving easy to follow and varied training programs suited both to beginners and seasoned runners, it also considers every aspect from clothing to nutrition to how to prevent injuries and remain motivated even when it's raining, dark and all you want to do is stop! Refreshingly the author respects that training for many of us will have to fit into family and work commitments. Attention is given not just to training but also to how to be a little flexible within training in such a way so as to not compromise fitness levels. The book is a pleasure to read, inspiring and completely informative. It is worth every penny and I highly recommend it.

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book for first timers, May 9, 2010

By 

running gal (Santa Maria, CA USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Marathon and Half Marathon: A Training Guide (Paperback)

I bought this book while training for my first half marathon. I read and reread several sections of this book during my training. The training guidelines absolutely worked! I adapted their 16 week training mileage increase guidelines to my schedule..(I had more than 16 weeks to train and fell somewhere between the beginner non runner and the advanced runner program). I didn't do all of the intervals, and hills recommended but I did do my best to run the quantity and quality suggested. The plan worked and running the half marathon was a good experience! Some sections seemed basic, but it was just what I needed when I reread a section for a specific question that came up as I was training. A great reference, I will still continue rereading some sections as I train for a full marathon!