When training for a 6 mile, half or full marathon our bodies gradually get fitter and fitter until we’re ready to reach our goal. However to achieve optimal fitness our bodies need rest. Exercise (exertion) needs to be balanced with rest. This includes good sleep patterns plus days of less (or no) exercise.
It is during the rest days that the body recharges, repairs and heals itself. Typically, this repair is not simply to restore the body to its former state but to move it to an even stronger state. Our bodies are absolutely amazing. Once our body is put under strain it says “What! What was that all about? You must be kidding me. That pain, that panting. You sure gave me a good whipping.” And so our amazing bodies get to work to repair the damage. But not only do they repair the damage, they also don’t want to go through that experience again so they say “Right cells….this body owner sure gave it to us. Well, we’re not going to be caught off guard like that again. We need extra reinforcements. We need stronger muscles. Bigger heart….Go do it!”
And that is exactly what happens. The heart gets stronger, the muscles get stronger – you get fitter. And so fitness develops during these rest periods.
So would running only 4 times a week be enough in order to successfully complete a 5 mile, half or full Marathon?
The answer is a resounding Yes! As this allows you one day off after each day of exercise to rest, recover, grow stronger – to get FIT! Four day programs are designed to give you the optimal balance between developing your cardio fitness and structural fitness.
Especially when you train for your marathon using a “Running Easy” approach.
