Hal Higdon's Long Run Strategy

I found this information on Hal Hidgon's Advanced Training web page:

http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/advancedint.htm

Notice that he sees no advantage in doing 23, 26 or even 31 mile runs prior to race day.

Long Runs: The key to all my marathon programs are the long run on weekends, which builds from 10 miles in the first week (Week 18) to a maximum of 20 miles, done three times in Weeks 11, 13 and 15. Although some experienced runners do train longer, I see no advantage in doing 23, 26 or even 31 mile runs. (I've tried that myself in the past, and it just wore me out.) Save your energy and concentrate on quality runs the rest of the week. Consistency is most important. You can skip an occasional workout, or juggle the schedule depending on other commitments, but do not cheat on the long runs. Notice that although the weekly long runs get progressively longer, every third week is a "stepback" week, where we reduce mileage to allow you to gather strength for the next push upward. Rest is an important component of any training program.