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How to Run Multiple Marathons in a Month

Runners at a marathon

On the first weekend of October in 1989, American marathoner Kim Jones won the Twin Cities Marathon with a time of 2:31—a personal best. Three weeks later, Jones finished second at the New York City Marathon with a time of 2:27, knocking another four minutes off her stellar PR.

That Jones was able to bounce back in such a short window to run another amazing race wowed coaches and fellow athletes, alike. The feat was made even more impressive by the fact that Jones had run two additional high level marathons—Houston and Boston—prior to Twin Cities in 1989, and would follow with two more in 1990.

Just how Jones—and a handful of athletes like her—are able to recover so quickly from grueling distances is a study in both practice and patience. For runners looking to see similarly strong performances in multiple long-distance efforts, there exists a handful of easily executed practices which will increase your chances for success.

Recovery

After a half marathon or marathon, the first order of business—before focusing on the second race—is recovery. With another long effort on the horizon, addressing soft tissue recovery needs to be first and foremost on your list of priorities. Set up 1 to 2 flush-based massage therapy sessions in the first 6 to 8 days post-race and plan relaxed 60- to 80-minute walks over the course of the first week.

I also recommend lighter, non-impact-based exercise in the first week—such as the stationary bike and/or relaxed swimming for increased circulation. For those of you concerned that a week away from structured running-based training will impact your fitness, be aware that the marathon you just ran gave you a fitness boost and, if anything, the short term rest will actually augment your fitness for the second race. Below is a sample two-week “active rest” post-marathon plan we have used for years for those looking to run another in 4 to 5 weeks or less.

Week 1 Post-Race

Sunday: Marathon

Monday: Walk / off from running / light walking

Tuesday: Walk 60 to 70 minutes / off from running

Wednesday: Light non-running-based session; easy lap swimming for 30 minutes

Thursday: Repeat Tuesday

Friday: Repeat Wednesday

Saturday: Repeat Thursday (optional very short run, 20 to 25 minutes, slowly)

Week 2 Post-Race

Sunday: Non-run exercise (swim/bike) 60 to 70 minutes

Monday: 4 to 5 miles of easy running

Tuesday: Walk 70 to 80 minutes

Wednesday: 4 to 5 miles running

Thursday: Walk 70 to 80 minutes

Friday: Non-run exercise, 60 to 70 minutes

Saturday: 6 miles, easy running

Also note two additional key items:

Your first “longer” run of 11 to 14 miles or more should not be attempted within the first 14 days after the initial marathon or half marathon. Proper nutrition is critical in the recovery process between your two long-distance efforts, as well. Be sure to eat regular meals throughout the day, mindful of the need for proteins (ideally lean meat and/or fish to promote muscle repair) as well as high quality complex carbohydrates for glycogen restoration. Large meals infrequently will result in excess cortisol in the bloodstream (a stress hormone) and will not only slow the recovery process, but will tear down lean muscle mass. Small frequent meals are your friend, particularly in the first 12 to 15 days after a marathon.

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About the Author

Pete Rea

ZAP Fitness is a Reebok-sponsored non-profit facility that supports post-collegiate distance runners in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. ZAP puts on adult running camps during the summer and is available for retreats all year. The facility has a state-of-the-art weight room, exercise science lab for testing, and a 24-bed lodge. Coaches at the facility include 2-time Olympic trials qualifier Zika Rea, 2007 USATF National XC Champion Ryan Warrenburg, and head coach Pete Rea. For more information, go to zapfitness.com or call 828-295-6198.
ZAP Fitness is a Reebok-sponsored non-profit facility that supports post-collegiate distance runners in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. ZAP puts on adult running camps during the summer and is available for retreats all year. The facility has a state-of-the-art weight room, exercise science lab for testing, and a 24-bed lodge. Coaches at the facility include 2-time Olympic trials qualifier Zika Rea, 2007 USATF National XC Champion Ryan Warrenburg, and head coach Pete Rea. For more information, go to zapfitness.com or call 828-295-6198.

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