Training Tip

Tuesday, March 01, 2011

“Everyone is an athlete. The only difference is that some of us are in training and some are not.”
George Sheehan

Although many runners are concerned with adding mileage, it is also import to include ‘planned marathon pace’ workouts along side your training regiment. If you only train with long slow runs…you’ll be great at running slow! Of course if your goal is to just finish the marathon, you’re set.

However, to run your fastest possible marathon it’s important for both physiological and psychological reasons to simulate your race condition.

Consider alternating weekly long runs with weekly PMP race. For example if your long run is 20 miles, the following week, do a 14-16 mile run with the first 8 miles at your normal long run pace… then run the next 6 miles at your PMP, followed by a 2 mile warm down.

TIPS

Racing Marathon Running Tips #1:

Continuously monitor your race - there are good and bad stretches. If you go through a bad patch, stay focused. If you feel lousy and you’re off your planned pace, relax and resist the temptation to either try to get it back by running beyond your pace – this will not end well.

Racing Marathon Running Tips #2:

Run with your arms - When running hills, it’s important to make an effort to pump your arms and increase arm-swing. This will help you improve your hill technique during the race. Have your arms and legs work together and not against each other. Also, focus on using your arms at the end of the marathon when you’re tired, as this will help maintain good form which improves your running economy. Saving energy means running faster!

Racing Marathon Running Tips #3:

Know the course - If possible drive the race route before hand if it’s not a course you’re familiar with. Not only will you be familiar with the terrain, you can visualize in preparation for the race.

Another benefit of knowing the course is this eliminates the possibility of getting lost!

Excerpts taken from distance-running-tips.com