Quick Tips for Marathon Training

Runners run urban marathon in the the city

1 – Look Down

Test out the shoes and socks that you plan on wearing on race day. If the shoes aren’t your regular training shoes, wear them on at least one 12-15 km run at marathon pace. This test run will determine whether you’re likely to develop blisters or get sore feet–before it’s too late. If the shoes bother you on this run, get yourself another pair.
 

2 – Don’t get greedy 

Try to stick to your training plan in the weeks leading up to the race. You’re not cramming for a test so running more KM’s than you’re used to late in your training can hinder your performance rather than help it. 
 

3 – Taper

During your final week you should feel like you’re storing up energy, physically and mentally. Keep runs short, try to get good sleep and keep stress at bay. Get work projects under control, decline late night invitations and try to avoid long flights if possible. You should arrive on the start line feeling fresh and ready to smash your goals! 
 
The Melbourne Marathon is only a couple of weeks away. If you have any questions, niggles or need some more personalised advice get in touch today!

5 Myths of Running Shoes-by Chris McCormick

Runners World recently put out this great blog (http://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/5-common-myths-about-running-shoes) discussing the common myths of running shoes – as a podiatrist I get asked about each of these everyday! I’ve summarised the key points below:

sneakers

 

  1. There is a best running shoe – Easily the most common myth about running shoes. There is “no” best” running shoe! We are all individuals, we each prefer different features in our shoes – so what I like is different to what my running partner enjoys. Not to mention that different running shoes are designed for different types of running!
  1. All Nikes are created equal – Another common misconception. So often you hear people say “I only run in Asics or Nike”. As a runner you need to find the style that works for you, regardless of brand preference!
  1. A shoe is a prescription – Over-pronator, flat footed, weak in the ankle – how often do you hear these terms thrown around by shoe stores looking to match you up to a specific style of shoes. From then on you believe that this shoe is the only style for you! The key point here – no shoe is a magic prescription, over time as aspects of your running change your shoe selection is likely to change to!
  1. Monogamy is a virtue – It is good thing to spread the seed when it comes to running shoes – try a few different styles on the go. Using varying shoes for different runs (speed, trail, long, etc) provides alternative interactions with the surface and a different response from your soft tissues – a positive thing.
  1. A shoe can make you run fast – the only way to run fast to hit the road/track/trail/pavement/concrete/sand – unless you are running you aren’t running fast!

Above all else – get out there and enjoy the run, you never know where it might lead you!