2011 Marathon Training Tips

NBCChicago and Honda have teamed up to bring you a weekly set of training tips to help you, your friends and family make sure you're on the right course for tackling the grueling Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Each week, check back for your tip of the week from the NBC 5 Fitness Team, Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski and many other notables.

These training tips are sponsored by our good friends at Honda.

They won't provide a detailed race training program, but rather offer some interesting tips and information for you to use along your way.

Full Coverage: 2011 Bank of America Chicago Marathon

TIP #1: Before you even begin training, check with your doctor to get the green light.
Tip #2: Maintain good running posture. Running coach Bill Leach explains what could be happening if you feel pain in your strides.
Tip #3: Running coach Bill Leach provides four training tips to help maintain correct running posture and prevent injury.
Tip #4: Registration for the 2011 race is closed, but you can still take part by signing up to run with one of several designated charities.
Tip #5: You're bound to feel some pain during your training. Dr. George Chiampas, the medical director for the race, explains how you can tell the difference between fatigue pain and acute, persistent pain.
Tip #6: Safety during the race is a priority. Dr. George Chiampas, the medical director for the race, talks about new safety features being implemented in this year's race.
Tip #7: Conquer all of your self-doubt. Wendy Jaehn with the Chicago Area Runners Association explains the organization's training program and how it can help marathon finishers.
Tip #8: At this point in your training, it all might be feeling a bit mundane or you may be feeling some pain. But there are other activities you can try to keep moving forward to your goals. Fitness trainer Nancy Fudacz explains.
Tip #9: Core training: Nancy Fudacz, the Director of Performance Training at the East Bank Club, explains how to fight the forces of gravity that are almost sure to set in during a long endurance event.
Tip #10: At this point, it's time to assess where you are physically and mentally with your marathon training.
Tip #11: Running coach Bill Leach stresses the importance of incorporating speed training into your marathon training program.
Tip #12: Several support products will be along the race's route for re-hydration and nutrition. It's important to train with these products so there are no surprises on race day
Tip #13: At this point in your training, some bad habits may have crept into your training. Running specialist Dave Zimmer offers four steps for good form running.
Tip #14: Two-time women's wheelchair champion Amanda McGrory shares her educational and inspirational story.
Tip #15: Utilizing the race's pace team can help you finish the course. Nike Pace Team Capt. Paul Miller explains where to go and what to look for.
Tip #16: With three weeks to go until race day, Michael Chitwood, the National Director of Team World vision, says it's a good time to taper off on the long runs and give your body the rest it needs.
Tip #17: Executive Director Carey Pinkowski talks about some of the highlights of Chicago's beautiful course.
Tip #18: The final tip: Race Director Carey Pinkowski discusses the aid stations along the route and the runner's expo.
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