Article Contribution by Rachel Bliss, Intern at Alissa Rumsey Nutrition and Wellness.
My Insights from Training for My Inaugural Marathon
The journey towards my first marathon involved several months of early risings, enduring runs through heavy rain, scorching heat, and even snow, all leading up to the big day – Marathon day. Reflecting on my 26.2-mile endeavor during the Boston Marathon, there were moments I was immensely proud of and a few I would reconsider.
For those gearing up for a marathon, delve deeper to understand the highs and lows of my training and the marathon day itself.
MARATHON DAY STRATEGIES
Have loved ones cheering you on around mile 18.
I mentally split the marathon into two parts. The initial phase stretched from the start to mile 18, where I eagerly anticipated my family’s and friends’ cheering faces. Whenever doubt crept in, imagining their support kept me going. Post that milestone, just 8.2 miles separated me from the finish line and more awaiting cheers.
Stick to familiar nutrition on the race day.
During my intense 13-mile plus training runs, I treated each one as if it were the marathon day, adhering to familiar nutrition. Training is the opportune time to refine your nutrition and hydration routine. When the actual race arrives, you just replicate your practiced strategies.
Heed your body’s signals.
I grasped the gravity of this when a knee injury hampered my training. Pushing through the pain led to moments of despair. I soon realized that a brief respite was preferable over exacerbating the injury and jeopardizing the marathon. There were days I started my routine run but sensed early on that my body resisted; I’d respect that and rest.
Focus on one mile at a time.
Around mile 14, realizing I had over 12 miles ahead, doubt threatened to derail me. To overcome this, I concentrated on reaching one mile at a time. This approach enabled me to manage my pace, hydrate, and reenergize, guiding me to the end.
Walking is perfectly acceptable.
A valuable piece of advice I received before the marathon was not to view walking as a sign of defeat. Covering 26.2 miles is a daunting task. I permitted myself to walk, especially during hydration breaks, sipping on Gatorade or water.
Experiencing the Boston Marathon:
Encouragement at mile 18 was invaluable.
LESSONS FOR THE FUTURE
Moderate your music volume.
I chose to run with my headphones on, as the prospect of a silent 26.2 miles seemed bleak. However, I missed the motivational cheers from the crowd. My advice: either lower your music or occasionally remove your headphones to soak in the energizing atmosphere.
Bond with your charity team.
I prepared for this marathon under the guidance of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training Program. I regret not forging deeper connections with the dedicated coaches and fellow runners earlier on. Recognizing other runners donning the LLS purple would have added an extra layer of camaraderie during the race.
Prioritize hill training.
I underestimated the importance of hill training, a mistake I felt acutely during the marathon. Endeavor to mimic the marathon’s elevation during training, especially if hills await in the latter miles.
Maintain good posture.
Neglecting my posture resulted in my shoulders drooping, causing significant discomfort by the race’s end. Regularly assess your form during the race and realign your posture, preventing undue pain later.
Boston Marathon Achievement
For those who’ve conquered a marathon, what worked for you? Or what would you approach differently? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!
