May 9, 2024
Training Tips by Coach Joe McConkey
'Live' in Reality
'I've rocked my workouts this training cycle, I am ready to rock this marathon! Here is what I've done:
- Yasso 800s – no problem, plenty of speed here.
- 23 mile long run at an easy pace – endurance is there.
- Half marathon at goal marathon pace – nailed it.
I am good to go, right?'
Not quite. Though your speed work and easy paced long runs have allowed you to run a half-marathon at your goal pace, that is not enough distance to accurately gauge your readiness for 26.2. What's missing is what's most important, long tempo runs. Elites, world-class elites, regularly do 18 mile tempo runs at or very close to goal pace, with most doing them at altitude!
To be ready for a marathon at your goal pace, try running at your goal pace for at least one effort of 18 miles continuous. Without this critical piece it is unlikely you have taught the body to store, metabolize and mobilize enough glycogen for 26.2 at pace.
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