Like most sports, marathon running has its own myths that lead runners in making some mistakes in the way that they run the race and even prepare for it. These mistakes can be avoided with proper awareness. If you are a marathon runner and you would like to avoid these mistakes then you better read ahead so you can be aware. This is a list of the common mistakes by long distance runners today: Training- Preparing for a marathon takes time. Experts agree that the period to get ready for a long distance running event like a marathon should be 10 to 16 weeks. That time should be spent in following the steps as laid out by marathon experts. Many first time runners make the mistake on relying on their own ability to train themselves. While this is admirable this is an error that might cost you your chance of finishing the marathon. A good training program is the 100 Day Marathon Plan Marius Bakken download which is available over the Internet. This program can be used by novice runners and experts. 2. Experimentation- Many runners make the mistake of trying something new during the race day or a few days before it. Understandably that is the time when they are nervous about hitting their goals, but the thing is if you want to experiment with anything, be it a training method or a drink, or a product, do it long before the race. That way if it’s good your body can adjust to it and if it’s bad then you can fully recover by the time of the race. 3. Slowing Down- Even runners who use training programs are not getting ready in the proper way. They usually don’t follow the schedule laid out by their plans. For example very long training runs should be out of the question within a month of the actual race but they still do it. They fail to realize that the body needs a month or more to recover from a run that covers 18 to 20 miles.