Plan developed by Mindy Solkin, owner and head coach of The Running Center in New York City.

You’re still working on building a base and edging the distance up a bit. "Each week you’re adding on anywhere from one to three miles to your total weekly mileage," says Solkin. "In the early weeks, we’ll start at a moderate intensity and gradually build. This will help prepare your body to withstand the stress of going the full 26.2." To help maintain this distance, keep your pace at a moderate intensity (you can run comfortably while speaking to a running buddy; you can sing the National Anthem but hear your breathing).

Total weekly distance: 9 to 12 miles

Week 2 Training Calendar

Monday Off
Tuesday Run 3-4 miles (60% intensity)
Wednesday Off
Thursday Run 3-4 miles (60% intensity)
Friday Off
Saturday Run 3-4 miles (60% intensity)
Sunday Off

NEXT: WEEK 3

PREVIOUS: WEEK 1

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Originally published on MORE.com, January 2009.