Marathon Training Tips from a Professional Runner
Summary
In this article, we will be sharing tips and advice from Des Linde, a professional runner, on marathon training and running. Des shares his insights on hydration, recovery, gear, nutrition, and music to help you prepare for your next marathon.
Table of Contents
- Stick to the Training Schedule
- Stay Hydrated During Long Runs
- Add Strides to Your Casual Runs
- Use Different Shoes for Different Runs
- Recover with Protein Shake After Long Runs
- Adjust Expectations for Unpracticed Half Marathons
- Eat Bland Food and Wear Comfortable Clothes
- Find the Right Music for Your Runs
- Incorporate Strength Training and Foam Rolling
- Mix Up Routes and Get a Running Partner
Stick to the Training Schedule
Des emphasizes the importance of sticking to the training schedule and not skipping ahead or trying to make up for lost time. It’s crucial to build up your endurance and strength gradually to prevent injuries and burnout.
Stay Hydrated During Long Runs
To stay hydrated during long runs, Des recommends carrying a bottle, hiring a friend to hand over bottles, or dropping off bottles along the route. It’s essential to drink water or electrolyte drinks regularly to prevent dehydration and cramps.
Add Strides to Your Casual Runs
Des suggests adding some strides at the end of your regular casual run to add speed to your legs. Strides are short bursts of fast running that can improve your running form, efficiency, and speed.
Use Different Shoes for Different Runs
Des recommends using different types of shoes for different types of runs and races. For example, you may want to use lightweight racing flats for shorter races and more cushioned shoes for longer runs.
Recover with Protein Shake After Long Runs
After a long run, Des recommends drinking a protein shake within the first 30 to 40 minutes to repair the muscles. Protein is essential for muscle recovery and growth, and a shake can provide a convenient and quick source of protein.
Adjust Expectations for Unpracticed Half Marathons
If you haven’t practiced for a half marathon, Des advises adjusting your expectations and not pushing yourself too hard. It’s essential to listen to your body and take breaks when necessary to prevent injuries and exhaustion.
Eat Bland Food and Wear Comfortable Clothes
Before a race, Des recommends eating bland food for function and wearing comfortable clothes. You don’t want to eat anything too heavy or spicy that may upset your stomach, and you want to wear clothes that won’t chafe or restrict your movement.
Find the Right Music for Your Runs
When it comes to running music, Des suggests that it really depends on personal preference. Some people like to listen to high-energy music to keep them motivated, while others prefer more mellow tunes to help them relax and focus on their breathing. You can also try mixing it up with different genres or creating playlists for different moods.
Incorporate Strength Training and Foam Rolling
To prevent injuries and improve your overall strength and fitness, Des recommends incorporating exercises like pushups, sit-ups, planks, and squats. He also advises using a foam roller before and after a run to massage and stretch your muscles.
Mix Up Routes and Get a Running Partner
To combat boredom and keep your runs interesting, Des suggests mixing up your routes and getting a running partner or a dog. Running with someone else can provide motivation, accountability, and companionship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Des Linde shares valuable tips and advice on marathon training and running that can help you improve your performance, prevent injuries, and enjoy the process. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, there’s always something new to learn and try. So lace up your shoes, hit the road, and have fun!
