Long distance training and surfaces/ runners in the Laois area

The_Nipper_One

Hey guys,

I've decided to start training for a marathon after approx 3 years of casual running, and I have a few questions about how surfaces will play into the training.

I love running in mountainous areas, but I also like to switch it up every few runs. I'll generally rotate between:

• Running around a GAA pitch for timed runs and HIIT
• Cluttered forest trails for some relaxation and a more interesting course
• A ring of road which goes up a mountain and back down for about 7k (about 1/8th is uphill).

I realize that as distance begins to increase, the surface I run on is going to be very important, so here are my questions.


Is interval training any good for marathon training?

Should I be switching surfaces as much as I do, or should I pick one and stick to it? What is healthiest for my body?
For instance, would running on grass uphill and downhill for 24miles prepare me for for running 24miles on flat tarmac? I already suspect the answer to my question is "No", but I am clueless to the specifics of just how unprepared it would make me or how bad it would be for my joints etc.

Are there any groups or individuals in the Laois area which I could train with?
I should add that this is a personal goal of mine and not necessarily a competitive one. For my first marathon I will be happy with completion!

Thanks to anyone who reads/offers advice

Run and Jump

The variety of surfaces is good - I do my long runs on tarmac and my speed training (fartleks or intervals) on a softer surface like track, grass or trail. Where possible I minimise or avoid running on concrete.

I do intervals and many marathon training plans include them too, but other marathon heads don't do them.

Good luck with your marathon goal and enjoy your running!

Micilin Muc

At least 26 miles in total of your running each week should be on the same surface and terrain as your goal marathon, preferably during your long runs. I have previously made the mistake of doing the vast majority of my long runs on mountain trails and it didn't teach my body how to handle 26 miles of relatively hill-less tarmac terrain.

I would think that grass is the best surface for your joints for intervals. What worked well for me was up to 5 intervals of 800m to 1600m once a week during the last six weeks of an 18-week plan.

What kind of intervals have you in mind?

Kite Runner

If you are in the portarlington area, stumpjumpers adventure racing club covers training for distances, find us on facebook, regular fri night trg session in corrig wood at 7pm, bring a head torch. I know that a few of us have the marathon as a goal this year, thats in addition to our normal runners. Post any questions there, there is also trilogy tri club in portlaoise, st michaels ac in potarlington too. Good luck.