How to Run and Enjoy the Marathon
If you've never run a marathon, or have had an unpleasant marathon experience, this concise book will give you some pointers (which you will need) for proper preparation.
I recommend reading this book in segments. Read the first few chapters now, while you're looking for motivation and direction. After you've
started a routine, read or re-visit the next few chapters. They will help you equip yourself with proper gear, and proper etiquette and safety. Finally, when you are close to race time, read or re-visit chapter 14, which will guide you through pre-race preparation.
The reference guide at the end will direct you to good running information sources for anything else you want to know.
There are a number of good reasons to run. Fitness is a good one, but is not necessarily at the top of this list. In fact, if fitness is your only reason for running, your chances of sticking with it are not great. Some of the other benefits, which several dedicated long term runners have described to me (and which I find important) include: Stress management, improved self image, improved clarity of mind, and a time to meditate.
Start off with a training log.
If your goal is to work your way from walking to running, then use 10-week walk/run Programme. The aim of this programme is for a complete beginner to be able to run 30 minutes non-stop at the end of 10 weeks. Before you start with this schedule, get your legs ready with eight days of walking (after you have had a medical exam, that is): Walk for 20 minutes a day for the first four days, then increase to 30 minutes a day for four more days."