If this is your first marathon and you have been running regularly, this is the program for you! It will take you from a 5 mile run at the end of week one and gradually progress to a peak 20 mile run in week 17 of the program. The key is in the recipe that includes a blend of easy running days, long endurance runs, cross-training and rest.

The best strategy for finding the right program is to select one that most closely matches your current training volume as a starting point. The Beginner or First-Timer Marathon Program is designed for those who have been running between 3-5 miles comfortably 3-4 times per week for at least six months. If you are running less, consider the "Run-Walk" Program for the Marathon or the Beginner Run Program for the Half Marathon and build your way up.

In addition to the daily training schedule, this program contains weekly inspirational messages from best-selling author and Runner's World columnist John "the Penguin" Bingham. His words will help you stay motivated during training.