Training for a Marathon after a half marathon. Could I Train for a Marathon without a Coach?

Greetings!

Not a bad start for the first half marathon! But it would be better to know which was the average heart rate while running.

Length of marathon training plan is always individual. There is no general answer to the question.

There are many factors which could influence on it, such as:

- current fitness level (it may take six months of training for one person and at the same time there is a possibility that another person will not be able to reach the fitness level required to cover a marathon distance safely);

- competition experience at a half marathon distance (I still don’t recommend you to plan to run a marathon just after your first half marathon experience).

To train for a marathon and run without a coach? Easy! There are plenty of successful examples, but...!

Training and participation in a marathon is a methodological process of immense complexity. If you don’t understand the process well you can make a lot of mistakes preventing you from reaching the goal, and in some cases it can even create a threat to your life and health.

If we consider training apps I can say their operation algorithm is methodologically adjusted and reliable. But any application or program does not take into account the main thing, your current physical fitness and other aspects related to your personality traits that are not considered by the operation algorithm. And it turns out that the program gives you recommendations that do not correspond to your current physical condition at this moment. It can lead to a cumulative fatigue and far-reaching consequences.

Therefore, if you wish to start training for a marathon I would recommend you to think twice whether to go on this “dangerous voyage” together with only a digital assistance or refer to an experienced coach. It’s up for you to decide!

Good luck to you on the distance whatever you choose for yourself!