As I've only entered one marathon, I'm no expert. I like the way this plan looks.

Usual disclaimers: a) others know much more than me b) a lot depends on what you're comfortable with; what works for you, etc etc. For me, I do better with two days of rest and longer daily runs. I can't tell from your log if you're used to running six days a week but that can get tough. All those HM's should certainly be considered optional. Usually the week "off" from the long runs is a bit of a break for your body. But if you're out running HM's that's pretty stressful. For your first, I'd consider the intervals optional too. I didn't understand your comment about 35mpw; this seems to peak at more like 42-48 (depending on if you do the optional run/rest day). Are you planning on just cutting out some of the mileage? I'd consider hanging on to as much mileage as you safely can and think, instead, about paring back speedwork. Also, watch out for that long run in week 7. Looks like they're having you jump from 13 to 18 miles; that's a big leap if you're not used to it. You might want to build in a bit more of a transition. Run consistently, stay healthy, do long runs; you'll be fine. Good luck!

Usual disclaimers: For me, I do better with two days of rest and longer daily runs. I can't tell from your log if you're used to running six days a week but that can get tough.

For me, too. I debated on adding a 6th running day to my week this training cycle, but decided against it.

Roy, I just hope that the course doesn't run you up to the castle and back! Good luck.

I also prefer Higdon plans, because they are do-able for someone like me that works FT and is not willing to sacrifice much of my family time. Higdon's novice plans are just 4 days a week, which I can do. I could probably run a faster marathon if I ran 5-6 days a week, but it is not realistic for me. Higdon plans will prepare you to run and finish the race. Other plans will likely help you finish faster and you might have more time your weekly schedule than I do to run more. You can even create your own schedule with a combination of a few different plans. Of course, people use to run marathons w/o a formal training plan at all. Just sort of following a basic rule of thumb to increase mileage each week, but not by too much, and a cutback week each 3rd or 4th week. Build up your mileage so you can do a long run of perhaps 20-24 about 3 wks out. good luck with your training!

Thanks Mary & Tammy I will start Hal Higdon Intermediate 1 or2 from week 3 on Monday, which will bring me up to the marathon. They look much more realistic for me. Roy