Marathon Training

The marathon training headmaster taps you on the shoulder. You look behind you. She’s wearing horn-rimmed glasses, her eyebrows raised and lips pursed. She’s holding a ruler. She’s judging you.
 
She’s judging you because it’s time to start training for your fall marathon and you’re still in CupcakeLand.
 

2:46:06. 

“You know that course was short, right?”

This was the fact my sometimes training partner and friend Mark was quick to point out after I excitedly told him about a personal record I ran in a local 5k race two summers ago. 

You’ve crossed the finish line of your fall marathon. You’ve gotten your medal. The day’s celebratory dinner and social media status buzz about your accomplishment has faded.  Almost immediately you’re thinking about how you can better your time in the next marathon. The urge to hit the pavement to train for your next race is intense.

Pheww – you just finished running a marathon! What an accomplishment! This is a true testament to your athleticism, dedication, and good health.

But what should you do next? Gloat, yes. Celebrate with your friends, yes. But, physically, what should you do next to prevent soreness, sickness, and post-race fatigue?

The Chicago Marathon has finally arrived! You should be thrilled with all of your hard work and dedication and sacrifice – you’re almost ready to compete!

When people think about the rigors of marathon training, most envision the first few weeks of just getting out the door or the grueling build-up of miles. Some even envision their first 20-mile run! 

While those are certainly challenging, most marathoners know the last three weeks of training, known as the tapering period (or TAPER MADNESS!), can be a lot worse!