When Should You Actually Start Training for Dopey (or Any Marathon?)
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You finally did it. You clicked register.
And now, panic sets in.
“When should I actually start training for Dopey?”
If that question’s been running laps in your mind since you hit submit on registration day - you’re not alone.
When I first signed up for the RunDisney Dopey Challenge, I had no idea when to start. I over-Googled. I compared training plans. I convinced myself I was behind before I even began.
So, let’s break it down - the timelines, the training plans, and how to know when you’re ready to start training for Dopey or any marathon.
My Journey: From “Analysis Paralysis” to a Plan That Actually Worked
When I first committed to the Dopey Challenge, I had full-on analysis paralysis.
I had tabs open for every plan you can think of - the Jeff Galloway RunDisney plan, Hal Higdon, Pfitzinger, Runna, Strava, Garmin… and yes, a color-coded Google Sheet trying to make them all line up.
I wanted the “perfect” plan. Spoiler: it doesn’t exist.
At the time, I was working with a running coach, but I was also dealing with some health issues and nagging injuries. Eventually, my physical therapist stepped in and took over my training to help me rebuild strength safely.
My base training officially started June 1, 2025.
That summer plan I used included three runs and two strength workouts per week, and my goal was simple: consistency over perfection.
By the end of August, right after our California trip for Halloween weekend, I transitioned into the Jeff Galloway Dopey plan. But after about a week, I realized something was missing.
A friend of mine said something that stuck with me:
“The Galloway plan isn’t built to make you faster - it’s built to make you consistent.”
She was right. The Galloway plan is perfect for building a routine and avoiding burnout. But I wanted more structure - something that told me when to run easy, when to push, and what pace to aim for.
So I brought in some help.
How I Found My Hybrid Training Approach
In September, I added the Runna app into my mix - and honestly, it was a game-changer.
Runna gave me specific pacing for every workout: easy runs, intervals, long runs, and recovery days. It adjusted automatically based on my performance, which made my training feel much more intentional.
But here’s the catch: Runna doesn’t (yet) have a Dopey Challenge training plan. That means it lacks the signature back-to-back long runs that the Galloway method uses to mimic four consecutive race days.
So, I became the queen of hybrid training — using Runna for weekday structure and pace work, and Galloway for long-run mileage and “fatigue simulation” weekends.
Yes, I really did message Runna and ask them to create a Dopey plan. (They said I wasn’t the first to ask, so fingers crossed future Dopey runners get that update!)
Understanding the Jeff Galloway Dopey Challenge Plan
If you’re new to RunDisney training, Jeff Galloway’s Run-Walk-Run® method is legendary for a reason.
Here’s the quick overview of their Dopey Training plan:
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Length: 28 weeks
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Goal: Get you to the finish line injury-free and smiling
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Structure: Two weekday runs + weekend long runs
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Key feature: Back-to-back long runs (example: 4 miles Saturday, 8 miles Sunday) to build fatigue resistance for race weekend
The Galloway method focuses on consistency and recovery, not speed. It’s ideal for beginners or anyone training for fun rather than a specific finish time.
However, if you’re aiming for a personal best or want more pace-based structure, you might find it a bit light - especially in the midweek mileage.
Comparing Other Popular Marathon Training Plans
Let’s break down how the other big-name training plans stack up to Galloway and which might fit your goals best.
🟣 Hal Higdon Marathon Plans
Hal Higdon’s plans are the classics - simple, effective, and totally free.
Best for: Runners training for their first marathon who want a clear, no-frills approach.
Structure: Gradual mileage build with one long run per week and 3–4 shorter runs during the week.
Downside: Designed for a single race, not a four-day event like Dopey. You’ll need to tweak it to include back-to-back runs.
Why it works:
Higdon emphasizes slow, steady mileage and rest — great for building endurance without injury. Research shows that consistent, moderate mileage helps beginner runners avoid overtraining and burnout (RunToTheFinish review).
💚 Pfitzinger’s Advanced Marathoning Plan
If you’re an experienced runner or chasing a time goal, this plan is for you.
Best for: Runners who already have a solid base and want to improve performance.
Structure: Higher mileage, more speedwork, midweek long runs, and tempo sessions.
Downside: It’s demanding - if you’re juggling life, work, and Disney costume planning, it will be a lot.
Pfitzinger’s plan focuses on aerobic threshold and endurance adaptation, which are great for advanced runners but can be too intense for back-to-back racing.
💜 Runna App
Runna is the new kid on the block - a personalized training app that adapts to your performance and available training days.
Best for: Runners who love data, structure, and flexibility.
Perks: Dynamic pace targets, built-in strength and mobility sessions, and smart weekly adjustments.
Downside: No Dopey plan (yet) — so you’ll need to reference the Galloway mileage for simulation weekends.
I personally love using Runna because it gives me the structure I crave without being overwhelming. And bonus: it’s far more affordable than 1:1 coaching.
So, When Should You Start Training for Dopey?
The short answer: it depends.
The longer answer: it depends on your base, experience, and goals.
Here’s a quick guide:
🏁 If You’re New to Running
Spend 2–3 months building consistency before jumping into a marathon plan.
Run 3–4 times per week and work up to a comfortable 6–8 mile long run.
Then, start your structured training about 7 months out.
🏃♀️ If You’ve Raced Before
If you’ve done a few half marathons or shorter races, 6–7 months out is perfect - right in line with Galloway’s 28-week Dopey Challenge plan.
💪 If You’re Experienced
If you’re already running regularly, 20–22 weeks of formal training is plenty. Focus on quality runs, recovery, and simulating fatigue with back-to-backs.
And here’s my “big sister” advice:
If Marathon Weekend is your next race - I hope you’ve already started.
If not, it’s okay- but it’s time to lace up and get going.
The Real Start Line Isn’t on Your Calendar
Training doesn’t start when your plan says “Week 1.”
It starts the day you decide to show up for yourself - even if that just means one short run on a Tuesday night after work.
You don’t need perfect. You just need consistent.
So… when should you start training for Dopey?
Maybe the answer is right now.
Not because the calendar says so- but because you’ve decided it’s time to start.
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💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
When did you really start training for your first big race — and do you wish you’d started sooner?
Come say hi on Instagram @evenmoremagic and tell me your story!