How many long runs of 20 miles or more is too many? It depends on the individual's fitness level. For a beginner, two may be one too many. The maximum number of 20-milers in my marathon training programs is three, but someone might cycle through three training programs a year, suggesting nine or ten 20-milers a year. For a top runner, I might propose two 20-milers on successive Sundays, then cut back to 12 the third Sunday. Repeat all through the year, then take two or three months away from any long runs much more than 90 minutes.

Photo Above: Close finish at the DSE Waterfront 10 Mile January 22nd in San Francisco photo by Catherine Cross Ujena Fit Club

"Among my most enjoyable activities is helping runners train for the marathon. I estimate that I have assisted a half million runners reach the finish line of 26 mile 385 yard races," says Hal Higdon

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Waitman Gobble 1/23/12 9:32 am

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One of the down sides of racing, particularly if you take your races seriously, is that it interferes with your training. Rest a day or two before, run a race shorter than the long run you might otherwise do the same weekend, rest a day or two after and, in many respects you have lost a week's training. You need to possess a high level of fitness to survive such a routine. That's why frequent racers begin to see their performances drop off after a period of too much racing. Still, a certain amount of racing will help you fine-tune your speed. Learn to know how much racing your body will tolerate.

Photo Above: Ballpark 5k in San Francisco photo by Catherine Cross UjENA FIT Club

"Among my most enjoyable activities is helping runners train for the marathon. I estimate that I have assisted a half million runners reach the finish line of 26 mile 385 yard races," says Hal Higdon