Survival Guide for Marathon Training

I’ve written a variety of posts about training for a race of this magnitude, and I figured it was time to put them all in one place so you can easily find the relevant information on my blog! I’ll be updating throughout the season as I add new information.

1. Find your Why

First, you must find your why. Do you want to challenge yourself? Are you looking for a giant goal to provide some focus in your life? Did your best friend twist your arm? Do you want to ring in your 40’s in a monumental way? Whatever your purpose is, reading The Power of the Marathon might inspire you to tackle this distance. 

2. Stay safe

It’s important to keep some general guidelines in mind when you are running. I wrote the Rules of the Road: Running Edition during the height of the pandemic as more people were taking to the streets for exercise, but the rules still apply! I also offer some gear advice, which leads me to…

3. Choose and care for your gear

I’ve written articles on how to select the best running shorts and pants, how to get rid of that disgusting slime that builds up in your hydration belt bottles, and the reason why I currently run in Hokas! I also think it’s important to build a relationship with your local running store, since your shoes are the most important part of your gear! 

4. Get Electrolit

If you want to feel better on your long runs, you need to stay properly hydrated, but still replace electrolytes. I share some information about that here. 

5. Avoid rookie mistakes

Your fellow marathoners have made numerous terrible choices in their training. Don’t repeat their mistakes! Take these tips for newbies and run with them! (Pun intended.)

6. The Long Run is painful

As the miles ramp up, your body adapts, but it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t hurt! Here are some tips on enduring the pain of the long run. 

7. Take care of your feet

They are your most important body part in running! I give you some ways to give your feet some TLC so they will thank you later. 

8. Cross training is important!

Mixing up your workouts is key to helping to prevent injuries. I love adding single leg exercises, squats, and cycling into my routine. I also have some guidance on managing IT band issues.

9. Don’t forget to stretch!

Part one of my flexibility series talks about the why of stretching and foam rolling, and when it’s best to do which. Part two discusses dynamic stretching to prepare for your run. I will update this topic further as my stretching series continues!

10. Taper Madness

Yup. This is real. As your miles cycle down so you can build your glycogen stores, you may begin to feel restless with all that extra time on your hands!

11. After the Race

The phenomenon of post marathon blues is really a thing. I’m comforted by the fact that I’m not the only one who has documented this occurrence. If you are feeling a bit off emotionally after finishing a marathon, you are in good company. 

I hope you find this helpful! I will be adding more information on my blog in the coming months about running, so please subscribe to my blog so you don’t miss anything! Happy running! 

If you are tackling a marathon, or even half marathon distance this year, I’d love to hear about it! It looks like we will actually get to run some in person fall races in 2021! Crossing my fingers… As always, I hope you are safe and healthy. 

*I offer this advice as a courtesy, and bear no responsibility for injuries incurred if you take my advice. Please consult your doctor if injured.*