Transitioning Into the Marathon‑Specific Phase

This phase is where your training becomes more focused, more intentional, and more marathon‑shaped. But it’s also a phase that should not last the entire 4–5 month buildup. A marathon requires specificity, yes—but it also requires freshness, range, and durability that only come from a well‑structured general phase.

Let’s break down why the transition matters, what the general phase should accomplish, and how to approach the final 10–12 weeks so you arrive at the start line ready for your best race.