If you have been wanting to run a marathon or half marathon, you can do it. Smart training, healthy eating and determination will help you get it done. The following is the second interview with Victoria who just completed her first marathon race! Congratulations Victoria!
Read the first interview with Victoria.
How did your training go 1 month before the marathon?
My training has been an awesome experience overall. One month before the marathon, I was averaging about 40 miles a week. My max distance was 22 miles and running hills was a big part of it all!
How did your training change 2 weeks before the marathon?
Two weeks prior to the marathon, I began the ‘taper.’ The mileage dropped significantly and my quality workouts were a bit shorter. However, they still involved the track speed workouts to keep my legs fresh and ready.
How did your training change 1 week before the marathon?
One week before the marathon, I was advised by my coach to only do the short prescribed runs. No weight training, no crazy yoga classes…just the prescribed runs. After running and cross training so consistently, I felt out of sorts…I think this was the hardest part of my training! I did not want to risk injury though, so I followed the rules.
Did you have any injuries during your training?
There are always aches and pains that arise during marathon training. I have learned to listen to my body and really pay attention. I get regular massage and I stretch and foam roll regularly. I feel very fortunate to have only had aches and pains. I was able to take a little time off and recover quickly.
Did your eating habits change during the last 2 weeks of training?
I try to eat healthy on a daily basis. I mostly consume salads, veggies and fruits with a little turkey or chicken. I continued my typical eating until three days prior to the marathon when I added a few more carbs and let up a bit on the fibrous foods. My evening meals consisted of chicken breasts, rice and a bit of broccoli for dinner.
How did the marathon go for you?
(sigh) It was an amazing experience. The support of the spectators and my training friends to cheer me along the course helped…it was simply awesome and I cannot wait to do it again.
I did cry a bit though, ha! ha!....seriously… in the 25th/26th mile, there is a huge hill…my legs were so tired. If it was not for my cheering crew and family who ran up the hill with me, I may have walked. But I made it and finished strong!
How has the recovery been for you?
The recovery has gone well. I ran my first 10 miler 2 weeks after the marathon. I was a bit sore but ready to decide on my next goal/race!
How soon did you begin working out again and what type of workouts did you do?
I was advised to do nothing for three days. On the fourth day, I was able to run an easy three miles. For the next week or so, running and weight training were advised to be minimal and not daily.
When is your next big race?
My group is looking at the Vancouver Marathon in March of 2014! I am in on that one for sure!
I leave this Friday for a 9-day running adventure in Morocco, where we have the opportunity to do about marathon distance daily! Of course, I will run less, but I am so excited for the experience!
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