Most running training plans are built on a distance-progression concept, a quick and dirty way to build a running program. Basically the weekend long run gets incrementally longer to prepare you for the challenges of race day.

Patrick’s coaching experience has shown that an intensity-progression yields greater fitness and a higher probability of race day success. Runners are challenged via weekly interval sets and critical pace segments that constitute a part of every long run, as well as a race simulation workout. Race day is no longer an unknown…and your personal best is totally within reach.

“So 3 weeks ago I ran a 5K in 24:54……today I ran one in 24:11……43 seconds faster!!! My splits weren’t the best but I felt so much stronger during the last mile compared to 3 weeks ago! I am just finishing week 5 of the “Get Fast” program, can’t wait to see how I race in three weeks when I’m done with this program!!!” — Lindsay Van Sickle

The P.R.O. System® = Pace, Race, Optimization

Coach Patrick created the PRO System® to help everyday people realize their running and fitness goals through our simple, actionable approach to training. Now you can leverage the training and racing secrets of the most successful runners to create your own path to running fitness and a healthy lifestyle.

Pace: All our plans and training guidance is pace-based using functional metrics you provide at the start of your program. No more chasing imaginary times or over-training until injury – the intensity of your plan is customized to your ability. Yes, this means you will need a gps-enabled watch or access to a track or treadmill for your critical sessions.

Race: At the end of the day, you are training to race. You will get fitter and stronger every single day, but the ultimate measure of your progress is what happens between the start and finish line of your goal race. Our proven race execution protocols will ensure you race to your potential on the big day.

Optimization: Actual training is only a fraction of your day-to-day life as a runner. Nutrition, strength, flexibility, technique, injury management, mental strategies — these are integral parts of a “complete” running program. Every PRO System^® training program  incorporates elements from each of these core areas by offering an online support option to ensure your complete development as an athlete and runner.

“I am sooo pumped to report yesterdays accomplishment. All the stars lined up for me and I ran the race of my short running life. 2012 BQ time for me is 3:45. I aimed for 3:40 and was able to run 3:39:10. What a great day and what a difference from my previous three marathons. Thanks again coach P and MN. Going to BOSTON! WaHoo!” – Barton Leavitt

Run Happy, Get Faster Guarantee

“Training and execution methods promoted by Marathon Nation helped me post a 9 minute PR on a tough Boston course. Marathon Nation methods let me start the race seeded 12079, but finish 3901. That’s fully 2/3 the field that qualified faster than me that I beat by training and racing smart. No coach or training method can do the work for you, but I’m convinced that this philosophy allowed me to get the most of out of the work I put in.” — William Jenks

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a GPS watch such as a Garmin, Timex or Polar?

They are not required but we strongly recommend you consider using one. The metrics of pace make training to your specific fitness possible; and they will improve your ability to race to your best.

I don’t have a GPS device. Can I still use your training plans?

Yes, you can. The intensities for all of our workouts are prescribed as pace or heart rate for the run. The workouts are exactly the same, you just reference the intensity according to what training tools you are using: GPS or a heart rate monitor.

What’s the MN Run Happy Guarantee?

It’s very simple: if you don’t dig the MN training plan experience, just email us your purchase receipt within 14-days and we’ll refund 100% of your purchase, no questions asked. We believe in karma and trust that you’ll delete the plan from your computer so as not to offend the marathon gods.

What’s the MN Run Faster Guarantee?

So you like your plan and you are doing all the work. You benchmark your fitness and are logging all your workouts. Then you take your Week Eight fitness test and realize that you aren’t any faster than when you started! Upset, angry and indignant…you want your money back.** Just email us with your Week 1 and Week 8 test data and your story and we’ll refund your purchase!

** Please Note: This hasn’t happened in over two years of selling our plans, but we want you to know just how committed we are!

Where can I view a sample training week?

Each week is built from the perspective of maximizing your training time. While details, duration and intensity varies week-to-week between different plans, you can see a sample Marathon Week here or you can see a Sample Get Fast Week here.

What’s this Real-Time Support option?

Coach Patrick is active online every day via Twitter. If you have a Twitter account you can follow @marathonnation for our latest updates, or you can find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/marathonnation. No other running coach is this accessible, period!

What if I’m still not sure?

If you have any questions before signing up, then we’d be more than happy to answer them. Click here to send us an email with your questions or concerns.