The following FAQs, compiled by our expert coaches, offers a chance to answer some of the "typical" questions that are posed by our runners.  If you have a specific question that is not addressed in this FAQ section, please do not hesitate to contact our coordinators and they will be glad to work with you to appropriately address them.  We ensure the privacy of your information and will consult with you before contacting others who could potentially offer an answer to your question. 

How Do I Get Started with a Running Program?

First, see your doctor and obtain medical clearance from him/her before starting any regular exercise program. Once you are cleared by your doctor, go to a Running Specialty Store (see a list under running resources) and purchase a good pair of running shoes and several comfortable pairs of socks. The specialty store personnel can help you purchase the right shoes. Start by going one mile either walking, running or a combination. Once you can go one mile, proceed to two and then three. I suggest doing this three times per week. Once you can run/jog a full three miles three times a week for four straight weeks, then contact our Coordinator and he will give you instructions on how to proceed to the next level.

Can You Please Give Me More Information About the Training?
Our training program begins in May. We meet every Saturday (8AM in May & October and 7AM from June-September). The schedule and locations are posted at Training Schedule. We have runners who range from 8:00 a mile up to 14+ minutes per miles, so I am sure that we can accommodate you. We usually have about 40 to 60 runners at any given training run. We run, have refreshments afterwards and occasionally will have seminars on various topics including nutrition, hydration, equipment, injury prevention, etc. We will also host training runs during the week (Tuesday and Thursday in Ballston and Thursday in Silver Spring). Our coaches are available at each training run to provide advice and assistance. The coaches are available on-line as well to answer questions or provide training guidance. It is best if you have been running at least three miles three times per week for a month prior to joining our training program in May.

Should I take "over the counter" medications, specifically non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) drugs?
It is important to understand what these drugs actually do in the body and if they are suitable for athletes to add to their training and competition programs. See the advice from Inside Triathlon.

Can I continue to participate in other sports while I training for the marathon?
Yes, but not all sports are created equal. Low impact activities (swimming, biking, walking) are preferable to higher impact sports (tennis, basketball, soccer could go either way). The recomended answer is yes as long as you are able to complete the weekly minimum mileage as listed on the MCP Minimum Marathon Training Plan.

How far should I run during the week?
At the beginning, the coach’s preference is that you just get out the door several times a week so that you make training a part of your schedule. A twenty minute run is good - by the end of the program you’ll run 5 to 7 miles/ run during the week. Your pace should be a little more intense than Saturday on one day and less so on another days.