SILVA: Getting the right advice for marathon training

I once read that if you want to be smart you should hang around smart people. And if you want to be rich, hang around rich people.

Well, I want to be a great runner, so I've been hanging out with some.

This is one of the big advantages I have as a member of Team in Training.

When I trained for my first marathon last year, I did so on my own. I followed a schedule I found on the Internet, and I stuck to the plan.

But I didn't have the resources I have now, and I think it's going to make my marathon experience that much better this time around.

The coaches and mentors for Team in Training have trained for and run so many marathons, their experience and knowledge are invaluable to me and the members of my team. Whether it's the amount of training we should be doing, advice on injury prevention, shoes and apparel, or nutrition, they've seen it and tried it. They've run countless marathons and know what works and what doesn't.

I trust their judgment and advice, and I think it's going to pay off April 7 in San Luis Obispo.

I continue to resist the urge — as I did in the walkup to my last marathon — to stray from the TNT coaches' plan. I'm going to listen to the advice, pay attention to the suggestions and stick to the schedule.

If you've considered running a half or full marathon, I suggest you join a team. Any team, really (of course I'm now particular to Team in Training). Hang around some good runners and I think your chances of becoming one increase immensely.

If there's one lesson I've learned in training for a spring marathon, it's that while the race may be in spring, the training is not. A few weeks ago, I ran in a downpour in Manteca and on Saturday we ran in the bitter cold in Modesto.

The key to running in the cold and wet is twofold: wear proper gear and have the right mentality.

Proper gear is critical, especially hats and gloves. If you're looking for some good gear, head to a running store and ask for help. You will regret not having the right gear when you're out on the road.

The harder part of the equation is the right mentality. During Saturday's cold run, I kept telling myself, "It's not cold" … "It's not cold." Fact is, sometimes your mind has to convince your body that it isn't feeling what it's feeling.

It doesn't hurt. … It's not that cold. … The rain feels good.

It's all just a mind game. So far, I'm winning.

Reach Jim Silva at jsilva@modbee.com. On Twitter: @mission26point2