Training for a marathon requires careful planning, dedication, and a structured regimen. The timeline for preparation is typically four to six months for beginners, three to five months for intermediates, and two to four months for advanced runners. Marathon training should only be attempted by runners already covering 20 to 35 miles per week, according to Jonathan Poston, a USATF certified level II endurance coach. Overtraining, skipping rest days, neglecting nutrition, avoiding cross-training, and ignoring pain are common mistakes to avoid.







