In our first segment on running a marathon, we talked about shoes, the possible need for orthotics, having a physical therapy evaluation, getting and keeping to a training schedule, and joining a running club. If you missed it, you can find it at http://www.epsfootdocs.com/2013/07/running-marathon-part-one.html
This second week, we want to talk about other parts of your training. You can look on line or in running books to get some tips from the experts. I have some suggestion for you also.
We did not talk about socks last week. Your socks will make a difference during your run and in how your shoes will fit. You want to get socks that will wick the moisture away from your feet. This is not the time for the cotton tube socks that you used to wear. No, it is time to invest in some socks that are made with cool max technology or another wicking agent. Ask at the running store when you go to get your shoes. Then pick your shoes with the socks on your feet. (As you may know, I have a lot to say about socks. You can see previous posts on the subject http://www.epsfootdocs.com/2013/05/how-much-can-you-say-about-socks.html and http://www.epsfootdocs.com/2013/05/socks-part-two.html
Hydration is very important during the race. Your stamina will be measurably different if you are well hydrated. It will also make the difference between healthy finish or a collapse during the race. So make sure during your training and during the race that you keep drinking fluids. Also, you should try and find out how often and what fluids will be available at the hydration stations during the race. You will want to try those fluids during one of your longer runs to make sure that it agrees with you. If you are going to carry energy gels, the same thing applies. Use the one you are planning to use during your training runs to make sure it works well for you.
The clothes you wear can make a difference in your comfort level. You should wear running clothes made with cool max or nylon. Wearing a cotton tee shirt will just make you uncomfortable during the race. Pick out your clothes and run in them a few times to make sure they are truly comfortable. You don’t want to not finish because your clothes are irritating.
Your positive mental attitude is very important. Mark the calendar to show yourself how far you have come during the training. Use stars and stickers, anything to make a visible showing of your successful steps along the way. Plan a reward for yourself when you have finished the marathon. Visualize that success during your training. Believe that you can do it!
In the midst of all that training and preparing, you need to keep in mind that post marathon training is important also. It seems that if you just have your training goals stop after the marathon, that your chances of getting sick are pretty high. You need to plan what your training will look like post-race and what your next goal will be. Don’t let the day of the marathon be your final step. Go beyond and plan for your next success! (Check out our previous post on this at http://www.epsfootdocs.com/2012/12/post-marathon-injuries.html )
I can’t wait to hear how your training and marathon went. Please let me know. Also, if you know of any wonderful tips for others, I would love to hear them!
Your Pal,
The Foot Blogger Chick
If you have questions, don’t hesitate to send them to footbloggerchick@gmail.com or leave them in the comment section below. I am not a doctor but I check with one before answering questions.
Trivia Question of the week – The Boston Marathon was the first marathon competition to allow women. What was the first year that women allowed to enter?
Find the answer on our Facebook page – Evanston Podiatric Surgeons – on July 26. While you’re there, please take a moment to “like” us.
Or
Follow us on twitter – @EvPodiatric and the answer will be tweeted on Friday morning as well.
If you live or work downtown Chicago and would like to see one of the friendly podiatrists there, don’t worry! You can head over to the office on the “Magnificent Mile” in Chicago. Stop in and say “Hello”. They would love to meet you. They are really that friendly!
Mag Mile Foot and Ankle Institute
333 N. Michigan Avenue Suite 1825
Chicago, IL 60601
312-236-3507