The short answer is no, if you go about training for marathons in an appropriate and progressive manner.
Long distance running and taking part in marathons requires a certain level of expertise, experience and technique – which is unfortunately something not many people realise. This results in chronic type of injuries in the longer run (no pun intended), as one ages.
Even though I’m personally not a fan of long distance running myself, largely due to the weather in Singapore, scientific literature is still pretty equivocal as to whether the benefits outweigh the risks of long-distance running.
Moderate amounts of running is known not to cause osteoarthritis – it’s even been shown that it has a protective effect on joints.
However, overuse joint injuries are very common among distance runners. The hypothesis is that repeated trauma over time can wear away cartilage in your joints. Joint injuries is a common cause of secondary osteoarthritis.
With long runs, maintaining proper form becomes more difficult as you get more fatigued, which will also make you more prone to injury.
In summary, I’d recommend training with fellow experienced runners. Treat long distance running like you would any other highly intensity sport, and know when to give your body a rest.
Cheers
