I have completed several running coach certification programs and have also run many marathons. One year, I decided to be truly committed to running a little bit faster and studied/followed the Hansons Marathon Method. I am not a fast runner at all but training using this method did improve my marathon time. Proponents of the Hansons Method say that they have cut 20 to 30 minutes off their race time. That is HUGE!

The plan is straightforward and has a few key components. You should be in relatively decent running shape before diving into this. If you are just starting out, take 4-8 weeks to get to base weekly mileage of at least 30 miles a week before starting this program. Mileage week over week generally should only increase by 10%.

Key components:

Run 6 days a week. You may feel fatigue in the first few weeks as your body gets used to the increased effort.
3 effort days--one is speed/strength, one is tempo and one is the long run. I love this because there are no hill workouts. If you are going to run a hilly marathon, be sure to run on routes during training that include some rolling hills.
The long run is never longer than 16 miles. This goes against what many other running programs prescribe, but I can assure you that you will feel prepared.

The plan is simple, but it does require hard work and dicipline.

12 week training schedule:

Paces for each effort:

I really enjoyed using this training method and felt I was very strong heading into my race. Would love to hear from others about their experience using Hansons.