Do you want to begin training for a marathon, but aren’t sure where to start?
Here’s my simple advice to you.
While doing your research, keep in mind that there’s misinformation, bad advice, and myths about preparation and running.
This article covers training basics and footwear.
All of the things on this short list, I’ve learned the hard way throughout my years of running.
When I reminisce on my experiences, it feels awesome, I see where I started and where I am today.
I obtained a wealth of knowledge, which all comes down to this simple advice.
Training
- Don’t try anything new on race day. No new gels, clothes, or shoes.
- I suggest adding walking to your runs, don’t feel like you have to run the whole thing. Run/walk intervals. First marathon is about finishing and having fun. It is time on your feet.
- Eat nutritious foods and get plenty of rest.
- Strength train, do yoga, something that will build up strength.
- Hire a running coach to guide you through your preparation.
Shoes
- Whatever shoe works for you. I’d go with Brooks or Asics for first road marathon, just my opinion, what I wore, and what I’ve noticed other marathoners wearing.
- The goal is to be comfortable and not get injured. Break in the shoe, train in what you’re going to wear for race day.
Socks
- Socks should be comfortable and something that shouldn’t rub your feet. Injinji are my all time favorite! They have road, trail, everyday, base layer, etc.
Anti-chafe
- Consider something for chafing. Not everyone chafes, but areas that could during long training runs are thighs, under arms, and chest/bra area. Check out Trail Toes and Squirrel’s Nut Butter.
Trial and error are parts of the journey, enjoy them!
What things did you wish you knew prior to toeing the start of your first marathon?
Ultrarunner, are you ready to work on your mindset and mental health some more?
If you are interested in working together on stepping up your mindset and mental wellness around racing and life, reach out to me.
I’d love to hear about your goals.
We will look at problem areas or where you’d like to see improvement, set a realistic goal, and then put those steps in place.
– I work with ultrarunners all over the United States who want to dial in their race mentality, mental strategies, and overall improve their mental wellness.
— My coaching services are fully on the mental side (I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Counseling, coaching is a non-clinical service).
Here’s what we can work on:
- Improve day-to-day mental wellbeing.
- Build better habits.
- Incorporate mindfulness
- Learn emotion regulation strategies.
- Set challenging, yet attainable goals.
- Discuss motivation
- Address body image thoughts or concerns.
- Talk about you! Who are you, besides a runner or athlete? – parent, sibling,
- entrepreneur, community member… What else do you do, and how does it impact training for races or vice versa?
- Coping with injury and setbacks.
- Juggling priorities and time management.
- Are you actively trying to find a mental health professional? I can assist!
- Are you searching for a running coach? I can provide pointers on how to go about finding someone who’s a good fit and what questions to ask the coach when interviewing them for fit.
- Mental strategies and mindset for racing.
- Training and race day visualization.
- General worries and race day stressors.
- What might you do if you encounter a problem during a race.
- Building trust with yourself.
- Improving self-care, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
- Knowing when to push yourself and when to be kinder to yourself.
- Why’s and meaning behind what you do. Passion. Using that as support and drive.
- On top of talking, I do provide resources and homework.
Where’s the chair? I need to sit down! … I hope that this gives you an idea of the good stuff that we can cover.
Contact me if you have questions or want to schedule.
Related content
Strengths and Weaknesses Inventory Worksheet for Athletes
What will you do today to Finish Stronger?
Athletes, What Are You Doing to Support Your Mental Health Besides Exercising?
Run. Thrive. Survive. Podcast with Ciara Carter
Race Start Mindset and Strategy
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