Are you looking to run your very first marathon in the near future? Marathon training for beginners is not a cake walk and unless you carefully plan out your marathon training schedule, and plan for every possible eventuality, you may find that you are doomed before the race even starts. Whether you are young or mature, you will find great satisfaction in training for your first marathon. Many organized programs provide long run training on the weekends, making it ideal for any busy schedule. What if you complete marathon training in 10 weeks? Well we will talk about it later.

Recently, a number of veteran marathon runners were asked to provide some of the most common mistakes in marathon training for beginners. To help you avoid these in your own training, we have listed the top five based on their responses.

• Never Underestimate Stretching. No matter what your age is, a proper stretching routine before every training session is an absolute must. Experts say, most marathon and training related injuries are caused by a lack of stretching - injuries that could have likely been avoided if a proper stretching ritual was observed.


• Lack of Water. If you fail to hydrate your body during every phase of your marathon training that will not only hamper your performance, it can also be quite dangerous to your overall health. Whether you're running a 3 mile course on the long distance road course, always drink plenty of fresh water to keep yourself constantly hydrated.


• Injuries. Another problem usually associated with quickly accelerating your marathon training is injury, and while you may be tempted to "play through the pain" so to speak, experts say this is a mistake. If you become injured at any point during your marathon training schedule, follow your doctor's orders and allow yourself time to heal.


• Determination. Most of the people lose marathon just because of the lack of determination. It is obvious that if you plan to go for marathon in one fine morning and then suddenly feel that it is not for you and stop practicing you will never achieve the goal. Those who have successfully completed marathon in their first go have made their mind to do that. No matter what obstacles will come, just be prepared for that and give it your best shot.


• Support. One of the factors that attract many people to marathons - and running in general - is that running is an individual sport. It is just you against the clock. But that doesnot mean you won't need support. As you begin your training, keep in mind that the next several months are going to be very taxing and the more people you have in your corner to support and encourage you, the better your chances will be for completing this rigorous training successfully.

Mental endurance is especially important when facing a challenge such as a marathon, and you need to ensure that you are ready for it. There may be several marathon tips concerned with your body, but very few for your mind. By getting yourself into the correct mental state you will be able to deal with situations better. You will need some form of motivation talk, and guide to ensure that you can power through the difficult stages, and complete your goal.