Last minute marathon decision

Question
Hi Ryan,

I'm looking for some expert advice.

I had planned to run a marathon (Leiden Marathon, Netherlands) on 10th June but picked up a knee injury in february so couldn't run for around 7 weeks. I'm now recovered and have been running for 5 or so weeks and have entered for the half marathon on the same day instead.

The thing is, I'm really itching to give the marathon a go (it will be my first). I'm running 5 times a week again at a min of 6 miles a day and a max distance of 14 miles. I could probably push that up to 18 miles in the next few weeks before the race. I have also completed a 10K last week in 39:53 so my knee is holding up!

Is it stupid to change my mind again and give the marathon a go on this training?!? If not, do you have any tips on how I should focus my remaining days? I have no commitments until the race so can devote all of my time to training/resting etc properly.

Thanks in advance
Paul

Answer
Paul,

You should continue training for it and see how it goes. I would decide the last week or so if you are going to do it. I think you should be fine, however, if you start to have pain during the race other than normal marathon pain, then stop immediately. Do not force it. If it 13 or 18 miles, whatever, stop and then you can plan for another if need be.

Ryan