What I’m Changing for This Marathon Training

(That has nothing to do with running)

Marathon training is about more than just the mileage. Photo: Kimberly Dovi Photography

I have a short memory when it comes to marathon training.

I’ve trained through a lot of different programs, for races of all lengths. I’ve had some excellent coaches who’ve taught me the physiology, the psychology, and the physicality of preparing for a race. But usually, I neglect some of the fundamental efforts outside of running that add up to a personal best. From there we get a less-than-optimal result with a splash of above-average disappointment.

In short, I’ve learned how much not running matters on race day.

Let’s be clear: this is not advice, because I’m not a coach or a nutritionist, and I’m certainly not an elite athlete. But in the interest of “winning small,” I’m setting the following mini-goals here to remind me to focus on the non-running stuff that matters:

#1. Rest relentlessly.

My coach started this training block asking me “what’s the one thing I’m going to tell you this time around?” My sheepish answer was “Sleep more?” This never goes well because I have more FOMO than anyone I know, so early bed times and naps never sound appealing. But, I’m fascinated by the recovery regimens of top athletes, who say to find moments of rest and opportunities for recovery wherever possible, even in tiny doses. Fine, I’ll rest. Just don’t do cool stuff while I’m sleeping!

#2. Eat so much spinach.

Not just spinach, obviously. But I’ve found that when I’m focused on adding a whole lot of nutrient-dense, deep-colored foods to my meals and snacks each day, I just feel way, way better while running. I still hate breakfast, and egg whites can die forever.

#3. Stop pretending strength isn’t important.

My physical therapist finally sat me down last training block and said: “I will help you every time you come here, but until you strengthen your glutes, you won’t be fixed.” And since my PT’s last name is “Stonebreaker” (how great is that?) and I don’t like to mess with him, I’m going to follow it this time through. Bring on the monster walks.

More rest, more nutrients, more strength. Seems easy enough. Someone please remind me of this in 6 weeks.