I think my main error in my training for this upcoming marathon was not to log in enough long distance runs. In August, I tried to train intervals, thinking that I would increase my speed and not concentrate on mileage. Then, my semester teaching began, and it was no longer possible to make up for lost mileage without running at least one long run per week (at least 10 miles or more, preferably a half-marathon or more). In October, I ran at least one long run every week, which helped me a great deal. I even ran a half-marathon and achieved my best time ever (1:53). However, I am not sure that I will even beat my existing time for the marathon, 4:25, because I should be logging in consistently 35 miles per week minimum. My future goal will be much more humble: to run the Shamrock Sportsfest Marathon, but to train consistently until the race by running at least a half-marathon per week. I am going to concentrate much less on speed/interval training and work on improving my long distance runs by running more of them. I feel that if I run a half-marathon per week, I will significantly improve my time. Winter is the best time of the year to train! I still think that I will be able to beat my existing time, 4:25, because I have willpower and strength of mind. | 