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Posted by u/cuttingseason2024··Training

Which marathon training plan is better: Hal Higdon, Pfitz, or Daniels?

I'm on a cut and looking to hit a marathon in a few months. I've heard good things about Hal Higdon for beginners but Pfitz and Daniels seem to have more science behind them. I want to push my limits but not crash and burn. Anyone got solid advice on which plan to roll with?

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u/cuttingseason2024·

I'm just trying to get through my cut and don't think I could handle a marathon plan yet. But honestly, if you have a solid base, pick the one that feels right. You'll know when it clicks.

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u/yogurt_bowl_babe·

I make a killer yogurt bowl for recovery after long runs. Got a good balance of protein and carbs, plus it's delicious! Just something to think about while you're in the thick of training

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u/grumpy_gains·

Pft, Hal Higdon sounds like the plan for people who think running a marathon is a light jog. If you want to take it seriously, Pfitz and Daniels are way better options. Just don't blame me when u're crying over 20-mile long runs.

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u/recovery_queen·

Take care of your recovery, no matter which plan you choose. After those long runs, foam rolling and stretching are your best friends. Also, hydration and sleep can't be overlooked! You don't want to mess up your cut by being too sore to train.

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u/fitness_skeptic·

Honestly, it's hard to beat Hal Higdon for beginners. I trained for my first marathon using his plan and it was solid, got me across the finish line without feeling like I got hit by a bus. Pfitz and Daniels are great for those who want more structure, but if you're on a cut, the volume in those plans might crush you. Plus, are you ready for all those long runs? Just saying, don't underestimate how much those can mess with your recovery and hunger levels.

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u/fiftyshadesofwhey·

Honestly, if you're a beginner, go with Hal Higdon. It's super straightforward and not overwhelming, which is key when you're cutting too. Plus, you'll be less likely to crash and burn with a simpler plan. I mean, who wants to finish a marathon in tears, right?

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If you're using Hal, just remember: 'Don't skip leg day' applies to running too. Your legs will be your best friends during that marathon. Make sure to get your strength work in!

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u/fitness_skeptic·

Honestly, if you're just getting into this, sticking to the basics with Hal might be best. But if you feel up for the challenge, Pfitz can help push you into serious mileage. Just don't overestimate your current fitness level.

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u/the_hungry_runner·

I ran my first marathon using Hal Higdon, and it worked out fine for me. I was on a cut too! Just remember, you'll need to keep your energy up, so make sure your nutrition is on point. The long runs will help, but carbs are still your friend

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Why did the runner cross the road? To get to the long run! Seriously though, both Pfitz and Daniels are solid. They might feel like a lot at first, but you'll adapt. Just don't forget to laugh a little along the way.

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u/squat_to_pizza·

If Hal Higdon is pizza, Pfitz is like a gourmet five-course meal! You can definitely enjoy your marathon training without sacrificing your love for food. Just remember, too much pizza can lead to an extra slice of struggle during those long runs!

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u/running_from_cardio·

If I were you, I'd just stick to couch sprints. Who needs a marathon anyway? But for real, if you wanna do it, pick a plan and run with it! Just don't forget to run from cardio every now and then.

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u/fitness_skeptic·

I'm skeptical about just following a popular plan without understanding the science behind it. Higdon's plan is beginner-friendly, but Pfitz and Daniels incorporate periodization and science that could help you optimize your training. It might be worth a look.

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u/bicepcurl_babe·

i think Pfitz has a solid structure. I used it when I was training for my first half and loved the progression. Plus, the speed work is a killer way to get faster. Just don't forget to stretch afterward, unless you want to be limping for a week.

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u/fitness_skeptic·

You know what they say about plans: it's all about execution. Whether you choose Hal or Pfitz, your dedication and consistency will matter more than the name of the plan itself. Just don't forget to listen to your body.

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I started with Hal Higdon too, and while it helped, I found I plateaued. Transitioning to Pfitz improved my performance significantly. If you're serious about pushing limits, I'd say give it a shot. Just keep track of your mileage to avoid injuries.

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u/gymrat_but_chill·

I ran Pfitz while on a cut, and wow, it was brutal but effective. The structure really pushed me, but I made sure to prioritize recovery. I would recommend checking in with your nutrition while increasing mileage, though. If you're feeling drained, adjust your intake.

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u/macro_master99·

Pfitz is solid, but don't forget to consider your recovery metrics. A lot of runners overlook RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) during their training. If you're too fatigued, your performance will tank. Monitor it closely!

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u/keto_kardio_kid·

Pfitz for sure! It's like keto for your cardio; you get the best results while working hard. The mileage might seem daunting, but it sets you up for a solid marathon experience. Just don't forget your electrolytes or you'll feel like a shriveled-up grape.

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u/cardio_coward·

Cutting carbs while training for a marathon? That sounds like a recipe for disaster. Just keep it balanced! Maybe toss in some tempo runs from Pfitz to keep things spicy, but carbs are essential for those long distances.

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