The Lone Runner Series: Now Is the Perfect Time to Start Training for a Marathon

Now Is the Perfect Time to Start Training for a Marathon by Ben Connelly Some people may feel hesitant about returning to training, but actually this is the perfect time to start training for a marathon. The United States just passed a milestone: 50% of all adults have received at least the first dose a COVID-19 vaccine.[1] We can see the ... More

The Lone Runner Series: Top 8 Protein Sources for Marathon Runners

Top 8 Protein Sources for Marathon Runners by Ben Connelly Most marathon runners know the importance of carbohydrates in the second half of marathon training. But many underestimate the importance of protein. In the first half of training, runners should prioritize protein consumption. While it will play a role throughout training, protein ... More

The Lone Runner Series: Sleep During Marathon Training

The Importance of Sleep During Marathon Training by Ben Connelly Many adults do not sleep enough.[1] Scientists have documented the serious dangers of too little sleep,[2] and many people have heard about the benefits of sleep, but some of them still do not sleep enough. Sleep becomes more important during periods of strenuous physical ... More

The Lone Runner Series: Why Would You Train for a Marathon?

The Lone Runner Series: Why Would You Train for a Marathon? Runners have many reasons they train for marathons, but many do it because it is rewarding. Today I want to explore a few of the rewards of marathon training.  Training for a marathon demands serious effort. But it also has serious benefits. Moreover, marathon training rewards ... More

The Lone Runner Series: Curb Your Enthusiasm: Avoid Overextending Yourself in the Early Days of Marathon Training

The Lone Runner Series: Curb Your Enthusiasm: Avoid Overextending Yourself in the Early Days of Marathon Training by Ben Connelly Excited to start marathon training again? Whether new to marathoning, or a veteran, most marathoners experience a thrill when they embark on their training. Just as you need patience in a race as long as the ... More

Gold Story: Racing The World, Breaking Records, Running Across The Country, Michael Wardian Hopes To Inspire Others With His Feats

What started off as something he wanted to do because he saw his friend’s mom running the Boston Marathon over 20 years ago, has turned into a lifelong obsession for Michael Wardian to see how far he can go. “I’m always trying to see what I’m capable of,” 46-year-old Virginia native and professional runner Michael Wardian said. ... More

How Running The SF Marathon Gave Him A Sense of Purpose After The Death Of A Loved One

On March 20, 2016, Jonathan’s mom, Shelley, passed away after a five-year battle with ovarian cancer. Jonathan not only lost his mom, but he also lost his sense of purpose. His career, his PhD, his entire profession has been in cancer research -- even before his mom was diagnosed with cancer. So, even though he understood her diagnosis ... More

What Makes The San Francisco Marathon The Perfect Destination Race

Written by 2020 San Francisco Marathon Ambassador, Lindsay Walter. Lindsay is a social media influencer, alopecia ambassador, and health advocate.   Anytime there is an opportunity to travel and run a marathon I always jump on the chance to do so. And then, add in the chance to run in San Francisco along the water, right by all of ... More

Gold Story: Mom of 4, Nurse, Runner. SF Marathon Course Record Holder Anna Bretan Does It All!

Running has been a part of Anna Bretan’s life for as long as she can remember. Her parents have always been runners, and still are even in their 60s. Her three brothers all run, and Anna started running in high school. “Running totally suits who I am,” Anna said. “I joined the cross country team in high school and they were all ... More

BEYOND GOLDEN GATE PARK | TAKING THE RACE THROUGH THE CITY

Contributed by Erin Mara, a writer and runner living in San Francisco. Above: August 19, 1984 – San Francisco, California, United States: Runners in Golden Gate Park, with the Conservatory of Flowers in the background, during The San Francisco Marathon. (Steve Ringman / San Francisco Chronicle / Polaris) After the inaugural San ... More