Deb: The AC tips

I found these on the Atlantic City Marathon website and LOVE #10.  

To register for these races, go to www.acmarathon.org or like the organization on facebook to see contests and event updates.
Are you a first-timer marathoner? No problem. The Atlantic City Marathon Race Series offers these “Top 10 Training Tips in 2012” for first-time runners:

Just getting started?
1. Give yourself 8-9 weeks to train for a half marathon, 12 weeks to train for a marathon.
Training
2. “Start out by running and walking together and not to worry about how far you run,” says Steve Antzczk of NJShoreRun.com. “A lot of new runners are fixated about the distance they are trying to cover and get discouraged. I suggest starting out only running by time (number of minutes) and build up to an hour of running”
3. Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water and/or sports drink before, during and after your workout.
4. Stride matters. Land mid-foot (as opposed to on your heal or toes). This may require you to slow down and focus on your movement, but in the long run, improves your speed and stamina.
5. Running isn’t everything. Your training should include cross training, such as yoga, weight training or cycling on non-running days. Visit http://www.jccatlantic.org for more information on fitness classes that will help make you a better runner.
6. Challenge yourself! Even beginners should push themselves a little further or faster at least once a week.
7. Run safe. Make sure someone knows where you are running and carry identification.
Training on the Atlantic City Boardwalk?
8. Lucky you! Not only are you getting to know the course, the boardwalk offers give and less stress on the joints and muscles.
9. Take days to rest. And by rest, we mean don’t run at all. Give your muscles and joints a change to recover.
Number 10! “Be proud of your accomplishments” says personal running trainer, Justin founder of personalrunningtrainer.com. “Each workout is an achievement to be celebrated. Each second shaved off your time or pound off your waistline is your victory. Relish being alive and having the ability to run. Take pride in your progress as you complete each step.”