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Posted by u/dadbod_to_ripped路

Marathon Training Plans: Hal Higdon vs Pfitz vs Daniels? Need Advice!

TL;DR: Looking for advice on which marathon training plan to choose: Hal Higdon, Pfitz, or Daniels, especially with family life in mind.

As a father of two and someone who has only been back in the gym for about two years, I'm finally taking the plunge into marathon training! I've been running a few half-marathons and feel ready to tackle the full distance. However, I'm torn between three popular training plans: Hal Higdon, Pfitzinger, and Daniels.

Hal Higdon seems to be the most beginner-friendly, but I worry it might not challenge me enough. On the other hand, Pfitz is known for its intensity, which could be beneficial, but I'm unsure if my schedule can handle it with my family commitments. Then there's Daniels, which emphasizes pace and VO2 max work. Sounds intriguing, but is it too much for someone still balancing family life?

I'd love to hear from anyone who has experience with these plans. What worked best for you? Did you find one more adaptable to a busy lifestyle? Any insights would be super helpful as I plan out my training for the next few months. Thanks for the support!

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u/dadbod_to_ripped路

As a dad of two myself, I totally understand the struggle to balance family and training. I did Hal Higdon for my first marathon, and it was pretty manageable with my schedule. Sure, it might feel a bit easy, but it gave me a solid base for longer distances without burning out.

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u/dadbod_to_ripped路

For what it's worth, I did Pfitz for my last race. I loved the intensity, but it was tough to manage on weeks when the kids had sports or events. If you can find that family support, it could be awesome, but otherwise, Hal Higdon might be more sustainable.

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u/wellness_wanderer路

It's really great to see you prioritizing your health and running, especially as a busy parent. Hal Higdon is very accessible, and i've heard many people say they appreciate how adaptable it is for family commitments. Just ensure you're listening to your body and adjusting as necessary

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u/crossfit_curious路

Facts! Keeping the family involved can be a game-changer. It makes it more fun and helps with accountability. Plus, it might motivate them to get active too. Win-win!

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u/yogurt_bowl_babe路

You guys should also consider cross-training to avoid burnout. Doing yoga or some strength workouts can help balance things out. Just keep it light and fun, so it doesn't feel like another chore!

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u/yogurt_bowl_babe路

I feel you on the balancing act! If you're leaning towards Hal Higdon but want a bit more challenge, try adding some tempo runs or interval training on your easy days. It'll spice things up while still keeping it beginner-friendly. Plus, you can involve your kids in those sessions!

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u/crossfit_curious路

Definitely! Finding joy in the journey will keep you coming back for more. If running becomes a chore, that's when burnout happens. Enjoy the ride!

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u/yogurt_bowl_babe路

100% agree! Stress management is key. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and reassess your plan. Adaptability is crucial, especially when juggling family life.

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u/running_from_cardio路

No cap, if running isn't your jam, you could just get a bike or something. Less effort, still cardio. You're welcome!

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u/fitbutfluffy路

Honestly, i tried Hal Higdon and found it super chill, but I craved more intensity. I switched to Daniels and it really pushed my limits. If you've done half-marathons, maybe challenge yourself a bit with that VO2 max stuff? You might surprise yourself!

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u/wellness_wanderer路

It's all about finding a routine that works for you. Make sure to schedule rest days too! Stress management is vital in marathon training, especially with family life. Just take it one step at a time.

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u/dad_jokes_and_dumbbells路

As a dad, I totally get the balancing act. My advice? Don't forget to schedule your runs like family events. Last week I told my kids I was going to run a half marathon, and they thought it was a fun family challenge. Just make sure you get some family support!

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u/dad_jokes_and_dumbbells路

You could also consider combining elements of different plans! I did that for my last marathon, and it worked like a charm. I borrowed easy runs from Higdon, and some tempo work from Daniels. Kept it fresh and interesting!

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u/dadbod_to_ripped路

I think what matters most is how you feel during the training. If you feel strong and challenged, that's what counts! Plus, I did Hal Higdon and PR'd my marathon, so there's that.

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u/dad_jokes_and_dumbbells路

Great point! Even if a plan feels easy, just enjoying the process can make a huge difference in motivation. Who cares if it's not the most intense if you're loving it?

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u/cuttingseason2024路

I dunno, sounds like a skill issue. Just pick a plan and stick with it! Like, is it that hard? 馃槀

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u/running_from_cardio路

Running? Yeah, no thanks. But I gotta admit, those long runs sound like a whole vibe for stress relief. Just don't forget to hydrate, or else you might end up regretting it! Running is a slippery slope into cardio hell.

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u/fitbutfluffy路

Tbh, I'd be wary of getting too intense too soon, especially with family stuff in the mix. Hal Higdon can help build a solid base, and then you can always switch to something more challenging for future races.

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u/crossfit_curious路

I hear ya, but don't sleep on Pfitz. I used it for my marathon, and the intensity was tough but rewarding. It pushed me beyond my limits, but I had to juggle family time too. My advice would be to pick the plan that excites you the most!

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u/wellness_wanderer路

Absolutely! Mindfulness in training is so important. Setting a clear training plan can help you focus during those busy family times. Make it a family event - maybe have your kids cheer you on or run a short distance with you!

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u/dadbod_to_ripped路

Good luck with your training! Running with family sounds like a fun way to bond and get those miles in. Just keep that balance, and you'll crush it!

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