You've passed your 40th birthday. Maybe some time ago. And you've decided to run a marathon. This book was written for you. Most marathon training guides assume a younger body, with faster recovery, more supple muscles, fewer competing demands on your time. This book doesn't. Running Your First Marathon For Runners Over 40 is the only complete first marathon guide written specifically for the over-40 runner, by a coach who started running at 42 and has since completed over 40 marathons and five ultra-marathons. John McDonnell is a UK Athletics Coach who began his running life overweight and out of shape at 42. He ran his fastest marathon at 55. He has coached hundreds of first-time marathoners and knows that getting to a start line after 40 requires a different approach and a different mindset. This book understands where you are at this point in your life. Inside this book you will find: A complete 20-week training plan designed with the over-40 runner in mind - Honest guidance on the physiological changes that come with age, for both men and women, including perimenopause and menopause, and how to train around them - Everything you need to know before running your first marathon, from shoes and gear to race day nutrition, pacing, injury prevention and mental preparation - Two real case studies from over-40 runners coached through their first marathon - Specific guidance on strength training, sleep, recovery and nutrition for the masters runner - John's proven BPR training method, Base, Pace, Race, used successfully with hundreds of first-time marathoners of all abilities Too many people talk themselves out of big challenges after 40. This book exists for those who don't. The marathon is 26.2 miles whether you finish in three hours or six. This guide will get you to that finish line feeling strong, proud and ready for whatever comes next. Your best miles are still ahead.