Masters (40+) Marathon Training Plans
"I will never again train without a plan! Your plan really helped me to train consistently."
CRT - Marathon
Is A Masters Marathon Plan Right For You?
Our Masters Marathon training plans are designed for runners over 40 years old. Although plenty of younger athletes love them too.
The workouts are just as tough as with our normal training plans, but with more scheduled recovery days. And more strength and conditioning work, so you stay strong and flexible.
Masters marathon runners face different challenges to younger athletes. Families, busy careers and lack of sleep are just a few. That said, not all over 40 runners require a Masters-specific training plan. Some find it easy to carry on with a normal training load, while others need to change their approach to training.
- Premium plans with coach support for any level
- FREE TASTER PDF versions of our shorter plans!
When to Consider Choosing a Masters Plan:
- Your training time availability is reduced with work and family commitments.
- You feel sleep deprived from daily stresses.
- Your body has different needs in terms of recovery, strength and flexibility training.
- You suffer recurrent injuries.
- You feel constantly fatigued or overwhelmed by your regular training.
- You keep catching colds and other viruses.
Can I Still Race Successfully?
Yes! In fact, by following our Masters running plans, you may well race better than ever. The key to success is training consistently, without missing workouts due to injury, fatigue or time limitations. It’s not always about who attempts the most training.
All our training plans adhere to the principle of “Progressive Overload”. Meaning that the stress placed upon your body gradually increases over time. By training consistently with regular recovery periods, you’re more likely to absorb the gradually increasing training loads, without breaking down.
How is a Masters Plan Different?
Rest and Recovery
Intensive marathon training will cause you muscle damage. As we mature it can (arguably) take longer for your muscles to adapt and remodel. This decline in rate of recovery will vary according to genetics and training history. Insufficient recovery time can lessen the effect of the workout and leave you more prone to injury. Masters Marathon plans have more rest days each week (1 or 2 days per week) and a 1:2 ratio of active recovery weeks to hard weeks (this is 1:3 in regular plans). That means you’ll do two weeks of challenging training, and then take an active recovery week (with around half the training stress).
Strength and Conditioning
As we get older, our muscle density begins to decline, and it becomes crucial to counter the effects of age-related muscle loss.
When you choose to follow Phil’s Marathon Masters plans, you can download the associated FREE Strength and Conditioning plan. These have two scheduled strength and conditioning workouts per week, designed to promote:
- Performance through improved strength and power.
- Increased muscle mass.
- Injury prevention by strengthening connective tissue, muscles, and tendons.
- Flexibility to maintain power through a full range of movement.
- Improved bone density.
- Fat-free body mass (a leaner physique).
All Strength and Conditioning workouts can be carried out at home. There are also alternative exercises if you prefer a gym based workout.
Training Intensities and Volume
Training intensely is the key to success in any sport, regardless of age. Strong performances come from having a solid base and workouts that maximise your anaerobic fitness, speed, power and skill. Evidence suggests that higher intensity work with less volume is beneficial for the Masters athlete, even for Marathon Training. Shorter, more intense workouts will also free up valuable time for recovery and work/family commitments. Masters plans optimise your training time with the right ratio of volume and intensity relevant to each plan.
Approach to Training
As an older athlete with a full life, prioritising is an essential skill. Ideally schedule your week, planning times for family, training, work and sleep. You should also be prepared for the curve balls that cause chaos in your best laid plans. Consistency in training is arguably the most important trait amongst successful Masters athletes. Here are some ideas to help you stick to your regime:
- Use your commute as an opportunity to train.
- Add in strength and conditioning at home, with the kids if necessary!
- If you can’t do a whole session, do part of it, something is always better than nothing.
- Commit to a lunchtime workout.
- Double up run workouts with Strength and Conditioning sessions and save showering twice.
- Life will occasionally get in the way and if you need to miss the odd workout, let it go and move on. It happens.
Top Training Tips For A Marathon
Running Tips
Total beginners should start off by aiming to run two or three times per week, starting with 15 or 20-minute runs. If running non-stop feels too hard for you initially, include periods of walking until you’re eventually fit enough to jog without stopping.
Then you can aim to increase the duration of your workouts by no more than 10% per week. If you ignore this, you increase your risk of getting injured. Your runs should not feel too intense at this stage either – ideally you should be able to talk while you’re running, as a way of knowing that you’re not going too hard. If not, slow down or include some walking sections.
Once you have built up to running 30 minutes comfortably, you can then base your training around three key runs per week. The first key weekly run should be a long one, where you slowly build up from doing 30 minutes, eventually right through to 2 hours 30 minutes of low intensity running. This could take you many months to accomplish, as you get fitter and fitter. Progress your long-run distances slowly and steadily, so that your body can adapt to the increasing demands. Don’t shortcut this process.
The second key run should be a speed session, with a warm up, a warm down and some harder efforts sandwiched in between – such as 4 x 4 minutes hard with 2-minute recoveries. These sessions will train you to run at any given pace for less effort.
Your third key weekly run should be a marathon race pace session. Aim to build up from 30 to 90 minutes, at your target marathon race pace. Any other runs you do in addition to your three key sessions should be steady jogs of 35 to 60 minutes.
If possible, do some of your running on soft surfaces like grass or trails, to reduce the impact on your body. Training on hillier terrain is good too, because it spreads the load to a wider range of muscle fibers, compared to running on flat ground. Always be mindful of avoiding injury – over half of all runners are injured every year. In our novice, intermediate and advanced marathon training plans we make every fourth week an “active recovery week” where the training is half as much as normal. This gives your body a chance to recover and get stronger, reducing your chances of getting injured.
Strength Training Tips
We include two sessions per week in our FREE Strength and Conditioning plans. These workouts can help improve your strength and flexibility, leading to more efficient movement patterns and fewer injuries. We suggest you only do strength work in addition to at least three runs per week, rather than instead of them.
Using A Marathon Training Plan
Online training plans are for athletes who don’t feel the need for a personal coach, but who still want the structure and planning of an expertly-written training program. Research has shown that you are twice as likely to reach your goals if you train with a structured plan.
If you have a recent background of fitness or sport, it could take you 20 to 24 weeks to get fit enough to conquer a marathon. If you’ve been more sedentary over the last few years, it’s harder to predict. Either way, you need to build up your training gradually over a period of months. Fitness improvements build up slowly and gradually, like coffee dripping through a filter into a jug. The key is to avoid injury, by building up slowly and steadily. There are no shortcuts.
Compatible with over 100 apps & devices, including:
Compatible with over 100
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Head Coach & Founder: Phil Mosley
Why Use Our Training Plans?
Flexible, structured training for any level
Research-backed plans for any experience-level that fit around your lifestyle. From leading endurance coach Phil Mosley.
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On top of full help-centre & FAQ support (with videos), our coaches will quickly reply to any questions you have about your plan via email!
1. Choose from over 35 plans from 6-39 weeks long
With beginner, intermediate, advanced, masters (40+) and off-season plans – we’ll have the perfect one for you.
2. Activate your free TrainingPeaks™️ account
A flexible calendar, targeted training zones, trackable progress and so much more – on any device.
3. Get your online plan and start ticking off sessions!
Keep motivated with any of your training questions answered quickly by our team of certified coaches!
About Phil Mosley
Phil is a recognised expert with over 20 years of experience, having featured on many endurance sports publications. He founded MyProCoach in 2010 to to offer the world’s most comprehensive range of online training plans, all designed to help you enjoy the same success that himself and his athletes have, while still making sure you have quality time for your family, friends and career.
Masters Marathon Plans (6-39 Weeks)
WITH FREE EMAIL COACH SUPPORT
We use TrainingPeaks to deliver your plan – the world’s most popular endurance coaching platform. Free to use, TrainingPeaks is an online calendar that lets you record, track and analyze your training sessions.
It has a host of great features allowing you to get as in-depth as you like, including the ability to export your workouts to your training devices (Garmin, Zwift, Apple Watch etc) and follow them in real time.
TrainingPeaks enables us to set you in-depth training plans in a way that other formats cannot. Phil Mosley is a Certified Coach and one of the best-selling coaches on the platform.
Whenever you need help with your training plan, we aim to respond to your emails within 24-hours. Our Certified coaching team are on hand to answer any questions during the first use of your plan, plus a bonus three months after its completion.
During checkout, please also share your email so I can send you a series of 5 helpful emails to get you started.
As you can understand, some limits apply (for example, we can’t analyse your data or edit your training plan) but for anything else relevant to your training, we would love to help. You also have full access to our online help centre, with videos and articles to help you train effectively.
We have a huge range of plans that enables you to select one that best meets your goals, schedule and ability. If you’re not sure where to start, read on below for a quick overview.
What type?
Our Standard and Masters plans are designed to get you ready for your target event, while our Off-Season plans are designed to allow you to recover from a tough season whilst maintaining your well-earned fitness. Generally, Masters plans are designed for athletes over 40 years old, although plenty of younger athletes love them too. The workouts are just as tough as with our standard training plans, but with more scheduled recovery days. Some find it easy to carry on with a normal training load, while others need to change their approach to training.
What length?
For the best outcome, count back from your “A” target race date and simply choose a plan to fill that gap (you can still work in other, smaller races during your plan). Note that longer plans start easier and progress more gradually than shorter plans. The body responds best to constant, gradual progression with regular recovery periods, and that’s exactly what our plans are designed to give you!
What level?
Choosing the correct level will help you get the most out of your plan. Generally, if you’ve never done this event before or currently train up to a few times per week, you might consider a Beginner plan. Alternatively, if you’ve done this event many times before or currently train 5+ times a week, you might consider an Advanced plan.
But don’t worry too much – we also let you swap the level for free within 14 days of purchase, if you find it too easy/hard!
Visit the MyProCoach Help Center for further guidance and to contact our Certified coaching team.
Certainly! Our training plans allow you to easily swap a few days around each week to suit your availability. Or you can swap out a session, to attend a similar group workout instead. That’s fine. If you opt for TrainingPeaks Premium (from $9.92 per month) you can even drag & drop your workouts onto different days. We give a few recommendations on how to best do this in our help centre.
And you can also train for multiple events! Our training plans guide you up to your target “A” race, but it’s also good to include some “B or C” races along the way. Our help centre goes through the exact steps you should take to enable you to get full benefit, without detracting from your key focus
Trial Us With Our FREE TASTER Plans! (8- And 12-Week PDFs Only)
- No coach support, personal intensity zones or tracking software
- Standard (non-masters) version only
Beginner (6-39wks)
Perfect for your first Marathon-
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From just $2.72/week!
Intermediate (6-39wks)
For seasoned runners-
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From just $2.72/week!
Advanced (6-39wks)
Slash your race-times-
Premium, flexible plan
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From just $2.72/week!
Join Over 40,000 Successful Athletes
- MikeIRONMAN 140.6, December 2019100% Worth the Money Used the Advanced 40-week IRONMAN plan and absolutely loved it! I was between the Intermediate and Advanced plans, but with the support/advice from the coaches, I was confidently able to purchase the plan that best suited my goals. The one thing about this plan that stood out to me was... >> read moreUsed the Advanced 40-week IRONMAN plan and absolutely loved it! I was between the Intermediate and Advanced plans, but with the support/advice from the coaches, I was confidently able to purchase the plan that best suited my goals. The one thing about this plan that stood out to me was the organization: this plan works excellently for those busy during the weekdays. I was able to complete 85-90% of the workouts in medical school and during residency interview season, which I was extremely happy with. Second, there is a good balance with this plan because I never felt totally burnt out. There were some occasions I skipped a workout because I was feeling tired/fatigued. But overall, I never felt run into the ground--the plan is forgiving in that way. On the other hand, I felt FAR MORE physically prepared for this race than my first Ironman where I followed a different plan. And side note, the email support system was quick and helpful too! << read less03 Dec 2019Kyle MiersmaIRONMAN 70.3 & 140.6, 2019Easy to follow and great IRONMAN results!! Very structured, easy to follow training plans helped me to some great PBs for Ironman 70.3 and also used Phil's plan to train and finish my first full Ironman distance race!!! He takes the guess work out of it and with the Training Peaks partner, you can upload and swap... >> read moreVery structured, easy to follow training plans helped me to some great PBs for Ironman 70.3 and also used Phil's plan to train and finish my first full Ironman distance race!!! He takes the guess work out of it and with the Training Peaks partner, you can upload and swap dates to accommodate your busy life. << read less01 Sep 2019MartinsChallenge ROTHSUB 10 dream come true For 2nd year in a row I was following IM full distance Intermediate plan Did almost all the sessions prescribed (some skipped due to work and business trips). For the first Year (2018) did IM Austria 10:03 My goal was to go sub 10, I think I failed because of... >> read moreFor 2nd year in a row I was following IM full distance Intermediate plan Did almost all the sessions prescribed (some skipped due to work and business trips). For the first Year (2018) did IM Austria 10:03 My goal was to go sub 10, I think I failed because of weather (was hot day for running) and bit too much elevation gain on bike and nutrition. This Year (2019) I did the same plan 2nd year in a row And was able to fulfill my dream - going sub 10 Did Challenge Roth in 9:36 So thanks for the great training plan 🙂 Also in the process I went sub 3 in marathon (2:53) and two Years in a row was on podium in Latvian nationals in Olympic distance, and I did not do any special training for that, just this full distance plan (I did marathon in the middle of plan) Choose the right plan (that suits Your work, family and other commitments - I have 9am-6pm work and family), follow it and You will be FAST << read less23 Jul 2019
- Gemma Carter CollinsIronman 70.3 Weymouth, September 2019Manageable plans for a working mum I have been using My Pro Coach’s training plans since 2015, when I entered a standard duathlon - my first - a year after the birth of my second child. I’ve since followed My Pro Coach plans for sprint duathlon and half marathon - and, most recently, intermediate 70.3 training.... >> read moreI have been using My Pro Coach’s training plans since 2015, when I entered a standard duathlon - my first - a year after the birth of my second child. I’ve since followed My Pro Coach plans for sprint duathlon and half marathon - and, most recently, intermediate 70.3 training.30 Sep 2019
And, they’ve all delivered results I could not have achieved alone (2nd female overall in the Chilham Castle Duathlon, 1st female overall and course record for the Chilham Castle Sprint Duathlon, 3rd female overall for the Bedgebury Half Marathon and 5th female 40-45 at Weymouth 70.3 - my first ever 70.3.)
I was drawn to the plans, initially, because they are easy to follow and very manageable for a working-mum who still wants to train.
The most recent plan - Intermediate Half Ironman - has been my favourite yet. The sessions are quality over quantity, and this works well when I’m juggling so much else. I’ve loved how the My Pro Coach team’s experience is transferred into this plan and, without realising, worked me into a physically-ready position for race day. I was never fazed by the 70.3 task because I trusted their process!
I’m hugely hugely grateful. The support - personal, interested support - has been a huge motivator.
Thank you. << read lessFaye ClothierIRONMAN Zurich, July 2019So much more than an online training plan I was recommended Myprocoach plans by a friend. I was looking for a long plan to help me prepare for my 1st full distance Ironman. I chose the 44 week novice plan. I liked the idea of a good long base section to get a strong foundation. The plan was... >> read moreI was recommended Myprocoach plans by a friend. I was looking for a long plan to help me prepare for my 1st full distance Ironman. I chose the 44 week novice plan. I liked the idea of a good long base section to get a strong foundation. The plan was great. Really easy to follow. I upgraded my Training Peaks account so that I could move workouts around during the week to fit in with a busy family life. I just ticked off the sessions one by one, week by week. Nothing more satisfying than ticking off all the sessions. As the event and other races got closer, their help was invaluable. They helped me swap sessions around to prepare me for the less important races, do it didn’t affect my fitness or ability to train effectively for the main event. And my questions were always answered quickly - even at the weekend when I wasn’t expecting a response until the following week! I loved the Strava club, blogs with great advice and social media feed in the run up to the race too. It was great to see how other people were training and feeling too. It’s a real community. Thanks to the plan and support I got to the start line injury free and not only completed the race but enjoyed it too! << read less25 Jul 2019Andres MorenoIRONMAN 70.3, October 2019Great 20 weeks of training I got the 20 Weeks IronMan 70.3 Beginner plan and it worked perfectly for me. This was my first ever half distance triathlon and I was able to get the right fitness for the event. The plan has a great structure, the intensity of the workouts is just right and... >> read moreI got the 20 Weeks IronMan 70.3 Beginner plan and it worked perfectly for me. This was my first ever half distance triathlon and I was able to get the right fitness for the event. The plan has a great structure, the intensity of the workouts is just right and the duration was good enough to still have time for other activities. I completed the race and I couldn't be more satisfied with the training plan. << read less24 Oct 2019 - Ignacio Vilas EguiletaIRONMAN, December 2019very well structured plans I have used already Ironman 140.6 and 70.3 plans from Myprocoach and I really like the thinking behind the training schedule and sessions. It is very well structured and designed to aid you to get a good balance in between training and recovery. And one of the greatest things I... >> read moreI have used already Ironman 140.6 and 70.3 plans from Myprocoach and I really like the thinking behind the training schedule and sessions. It is very well structured and designed to aid you to get a good balance in between training and recovery. And one of the greatest things I have realized this year when using the same plan for the second time is that it was updated automatically, so some workouts were new and different. That helps with getting motivation forward. On top of it, you have great and quick support by email from the Myprocoach team when needed. << read less07 Dec 2019David SchwanIRONMAN 70.3 for Masters, November 2019Very Good Plan/Holistic approach Only 5 weeks into the training plan, but love so far. The only addition I would include is a plan that includes power for running and it would be perfect. Pic-Last season, 1st in the age group.15 Nov 2019
"We are grateful for this feedback and are currently researching the best way to... >> read moreOnly 5 weeks into the training plan, but love so far. The only addition I would include is a plan that includes power for running and it would be perfect. Pic-Last season, 1st in the age group.
"We are grateful for this feedback and are currently researching the best way to add power-based run workouts to our plans - My Pro Coach" << read lessJanSprint/Olympic Triathlon, July 2019Masters triathlon win win ! I can highly recommend Phils training plans . I have been on a training plan for the last year with exceptional results , I’m not new to the sport 16 years and now in the masters category. The training plan gives me a more balanced life and no niggles !!!... >> read moreI can highly recommend Phils training plans . I have been on a training plan for the last year with exceptional results , I’m not new to the sport 16 years and now in the masters category. The training plan gives me a more balanced life and no niggles !!! In the last year I have won every race I entered, feeling fresh and have a stronger endurance speed base . At 64 im racing as I did in my 40’s . So thanks Phil , I'm looking forward to my next race ! Jan << read less02 Jul 2019
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