How to Train Smarter: My 5 Essential Marathon Sessions - Lee Grantham

Aug 13, 2025

This is a quick summary of How to Train Smarter: My 5 Essential Marathon Sessions from Lee Grantham. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workout today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points

Marathon training should focus on running at race pace, not just covering distance.
Five focused sessions (≤ 25 km total) can boost speed, strength, and confidence. While marathon training is about endurance, developing raw speed is also crucial—many of the same strategies used for Mastering 5K Speed: Proven Interval Strategies to Cut Minutes off Your Time can help you build a stronger kick at the end of 26.2 miles.
Use pace variations (+10 % and half‑marathon pace) to simulate race‑day surges and finishes. The speed endurance you build when Mastering the 10K: Proven Training Plans, Pace Strategies, and How a Smart App Can Elevate Your Performance can be a huge asset here.
Incorporate hills, alternating efforts, long intervals, and broken tempo to prepare for any course. Many of these workouts are a form of interval work, a powerful tool for any runner. You can learn more about the science behind it in our guide to Mastering Interval Training: Science-Backed Workouts and How a Smart App Can Personalize Them.
Warm‑up, proper fueling, and downhill running are essential for optimal performance.

Workout Example – Session 1 “Marathon Race Progression”

Warm‑up 3–5 km easy.
Run 10 km at 4 min 24 s / km (marathon pace + 10 %).
Run 10 km at 4 min 00 s / km (target marathon pace).
Finish 5 km at 3 min 45 s / km (half‑marathon pace).
Cool‑down 3–5 km easy. Total ≈ 25 km.

Closing Note

Try this session (or adapt the paces in the Pacing app) to feel the marathon rhythm before race day. You’ll notice stronger legs and a faster finish. Keep training smart and enjoy the miles ahead!

Remember to watch Lee Grantham’s full video for deeper insights and additional sessions.