Tapering Strategy for the Victoria Marathon
September 12, 2008 by Jacquie
Filed under Advise & Opinions, General, Race News & Info, Shopping Deals & Steals, Training
Well, the big race day is clearly in sight now. On October 12, 2008 I will be running my second marathon of 2008. After 4 years without running any marathon, I must have been clearly mad when I agreed to a second marathon this year almost immediately after finishing the Vancouver Marathon.
With one month left before the marathon, we are running our last long-distance run tomorrow morning. I hope to complete a 3 hour and 45 minute run at least, and hopefully a bit longer. Weather’s looking great for our run and our route is mapped out.
With one month in my marathon training, what is my strategy?
Well, as I mentioned above our longest run will be taking place a month before. Typically, I like to do my longest run 3 weeks in advance to the marathon, but we were lucky enough to have a half marathon happening right in our own community - The Peace Arch Rotary Half Marathon in White Rock, BC which is taking place 3 weeks before the marathon. Needless to say, we’re in and will be racing next weekend. The half marathon will not only give me a chance to get some running in at race pace, but also allow me to have a race day rehearsal.
After the half marathon, the taper will begin. I will allow myself more rest if needed - keep my easy runs - easy. I feel that this is the time to take a couple days in a row off to get my body feeling strong again and get rid of any feelings of tiredness or exhaustion.
Figure out what I might like to wear on race day and take it for a test drive/run. I’m very comfortable with my tried and true running apparel that I will be sporting on marathon morning. However, I did just just purchase some brand new running shoes from Roadrunner Sports. Delivery will be in about 5 days - too late to try out on my long distance runs, but I will still have a couple of two hour runs in my marathon training which should give me a good indication of how they will feel. I would have liked to have had the runners sooner, but, call me cheap, but I was holding off for a sale. Which, by the way I got and saved over $30 on my new Saucony ProGrid Hurricane 10 s plus free shipping. If you are in need of new runner I suggest that you check it out at: Free Shipping and 15%off on all purchases through 12/13/2008 at Roadrunner Sports
On the final week before the marathon the things that I will be keeping check on is sleep, proper diet, stretching and drinking lots of water. Oh ya, very limited alcohol consumption. I do love my wine, but there isn’t alot of give in a marathon and I find that I need all my body has to give. The wine will be saved for the post-race celebrations!