How to Work a Physical Job & Train for a Marathon

Marathon training is a monster for many people. Training is doubly difficult when working a physical daytime job. Eating right, exercising regularly, setting personal goals and meeting, or exceeding, those goals is only part of the challenge. Balancing workouts and training between living a normal life with work and family takes commitment. While the task is not easy, it is also not impossible. Follow a few simple steps to develop a solid, busy-life training strategy.

Things You'll Need

  • Schedule
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Carbohydrates
  • Exercise equipment
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plan your training schedule with your spouse and loved ones well in advance of the marathon. Discuss training requirements, goals you are reaching for and the time and energy it will take to meet those needs. Agree on a training schedule with family members prior to the start of training so everyone is properly prepared and on the same page.

    • 2

      Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and carbohydrates. Working a physical job during the day and training morning and night means your body is soaking up nutrients and energy. Replenish your body with carbohydrates as 60 percent of your daily diet. Make lean protein 15 percent of your daily food intake. Devote the remaining 25 percent to fresh fruits, vegetables, fish with omega-3 acids, water and beverages containing fluid-electrolytes.

    • 3

      Choose times of the day that are ideal for you and your body. Plan to work out in the evenings if you are required to report to work at 6 a.m. Alternatively, consider early morning workouts if you begin work later in the day. Select at least one day of the week when you will rest and allow your body to regroup and repair.

    • 4

      Listen to your body. Running on empty is not healthy and can result in injury. Rest when your body feels especially exhausted and determine via your degree of hunger how much to boost your diet -- not through the temptation in your eyes. Staying well rested and properly fed leads to productive work days and exercise routines.