Answer from Linda O'Byrne: HI Sandra, congratulations to your husband for committing to the decision to train for a marathon. In answer to your question, most marathon training programs are 12 weeks long, however I'd recommend that he spaced out his training over 16 weeks for best effeciency and to allow for any breaks that he may need. I've found in my marathon training that it's really hard to stick to a program of 5-6 days running per week, over a period of months. So it's much better that he allow himself a few weeks extra, just in case, and he can take a good period of tapering before the actual marathon to ensure he is rested and prepared. Good luck Linda O'Byrne