Varying the miles - how making each run different can have a postive effect

When you are running a lot of miles each week as part of your marathon training programme its essential to vary both distances and intensity of each run to ensure mental and physical freshness as the weeks go by.
Varying routes is also a good idea as the thoughts of running the same route again and again can most definitely affect motivation and drive at a critical time in your training.
Introducing fartlek runs can help build cardio and muscle strength and can be a nice change from the long steady miles. An up tempo shorter run can also build confidence and stave off the boredom of doing the same type of run on a daily basis.
Introducing hills is also a great way to toughen up on a mental and physical level also as you are bound to meet a few on the big race day and need to prepare accordingly! There is also a great sense of achievement and focus on conquering that difficult climb midway through a run.
New routes can also add a freshness to your training programme as they pose new challenges.
Overall, as the programme can take place over a four to six  month period with hundreds of miles under the belt, the ability to change patterns thoroughout is crucial to ensure appetite and prevent burnout before the big day arrives!