In fact, Higdon even has a Dopey Challenge training plan which is a really great tool! I see too many runDisney runners with super low mileage or following some of the less than ideal recommendations to only run 3 miles during the weekday and then suddenly 26 on the weekend.Ĭonsider this your Cliff Notes version of Hal Higdon running plans overall. While he does include more advanced training plans, I think the ones that shine are for the newer runner.

In other words, my approach in many ways is similar! As a running coach I’m focused on that middle of the pack to back of the pack runner that’s nervous, wants to improve, but has a life. No gimmicks, just solid training plans that are easy for the majority of new and intermediate runners to follow without injury. I’m certainly drawn to his more simplistic and no-nonsense style of training.

Hal Higdon was first a very successful runner who competed in 8 Olympic trials, then a successful writer for Runner’s World and multi-time author starting in 1966 and has now been a well respected running coach for many decades. In contrast to the 3 day a week style of the FIRST marathon training method or the high mileage, high intensity of Hanson Method today we are exploring the Hal Higdon Marathon Training Plans which feel like a great moderate way for most folks to jump in. These training plans follow a pretty standard progression of workouts and utilize the 80/20 method varied by runner experience. Since Hal Higdon provides one of the most robust number of free marathon plans, it’s a must discuss. As a running coach, I’m often asked about the best marathon training plan and of course there’s a LOT that goes in to that answer.

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