While there are any number of books on how to run a marathon, the Internet is a marvellous interactive training resource ? offering training tips, e-mail helplines, finding a coach, finding a running partner in your neighbourhood, etc. Here are some sites to start off with:

nwww.aims-association.org ? This is the official website of the Association of International Marathons and Road Races (AIMS) and gives you a complete calendar of races for the year.

nwww.halhigdon.com ? An 18-week online marathon training programme, which guarantees you success in completing a marathon.

nwww. runningcoachtom.com ? This is more suitable for New York residents, though some of the training tips are a great help.

nwww. marathonguide.com ? This is a complete directory of marathons, results, athlete and race news, history, inspiring stories from first-time runners. Enough to get you off the chair and heading for the track.

nwww.runnersforlife.com ? an e-group started by Bangalore-based runners which shares running tips and information.