How to Train For and Run Your Best Marathon

by Gordon Bakoulis Bloch

From a national class marathoner who qualified for the Olympic Trials—valuable coaching on gearing up for and finishing a marathon. Bloch explains the benefits of cross-training for marathon runners, offers winning strategies specific to individual race courses, and more.

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference, Fitness, Sports

272 pages, Paperback

First published August 5, 1993

Reviews

[ellen]

Following the training plan from this book to prepare for this year's Pittsburgh marathon, and hopefully (with hard work, a bit of luck, and tenacity) a Boston Qualifier.

[Katrin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll hopefully run the Athens marathon for the fourth time in only 4 weeks. I last ran it two years ago and I know how difficult it will be and how broken I will be afterwards, haha! this book, even if it is outdated, gave many important tips, guides and information that is interesting for any long distance runner. I'm glad I read it, it does give me some enthusiasm and that was the goal here!! my last runs went well, I felt like easily running some distances and that gives me hope. there are some areas Bloch didn't touch upon, like sickness instead of only injuries, but overall I enjoyed this book a lot. yes, there surely are lots of new studies that alter a bit what she preaches, but it still is a very good guide. and a small motivation kick for me and that's what it's about, since marathons are fought, conquered and won with the mind ☺️

[Kristen MacGregor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book- for those who have already run a marathon or those doing it for the first time. Even though I'm not planning on running a full marathon this year, I plan on implementing several of the ideas she has in my training for my half marathons- VERY useful stuff! She thoroughly explains everything so you literally have no questions by the end of the book- even has training logs for you to follow if you're training for a full marathon.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Time instead of distance. This book teaches you the importance of listening to your body and training effectively so that you can be strong while going the distance. Bloch's advice is not just for marathoners but speaks to all runners going any distance. The time over distance approach is very rewarding and enjoyable. I have recommended and lent this book out many times...

[Nicole Modugno · Rating 4 out of 5]

LOVED this book. Loved the examples and experiences. The only thing that makes it a difficult read is the overload of information. As nice as it is so have so much available in one piece, I simply wanted to talk about the running and training aspect, not about nutrition. However, beside that, very well written and made me eager to get out and run everyday.

[Natividade Morais · Rating 4 out of 5]

Training for my first 1/2 Marathon this year, this book really did give some good insight for intermediate runners as well as beginners with good insite on nutrition as well as training tips.

[kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book before running my first marathon. I then used it as a training tool while training for my next 4 marathons.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is definitely dated, but the principles are sound. I felt very motivated to intensify my training after this... and confident that I could finish a marathon (after said training!).

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dug this out and dusted it off. 26.2 in Feb 2011!!