In regards to all the aspects of marathon training and preparation, nutrition is one of the most important topics for which to thoroughly consider and give your full attention. A carefully conceived training schedule is of little value if a runner fails to properly plan to meet his or her nutritional requirements for long distance training and racing. While a general overview of nutritional guidelines are presented below, specific nutritional issues relating to the long run, the taper period, and the marathon are featured in their own sections of this site. I strongly urge you to take time to review the comprehensive nutritional information presented within these pages.