This week was the last week of structured training runs (intervals and tempo) and we’re slowly reducing the length of the long run. I am welcoming the taper phase but I am also acutely aware of what that means: Race Day is near! Eek! I am a bit nervous but excited.
Do you know that feeling when you’ve been working on something for a long time that culminates in a big, scary event but you’re getting to the point where you’re ready to get it over with? That’s about where I am right now. I am ready to put my training to the test.
Focus for the weeks:
We’re in the phase now where we start reducing intensity and volume. The long run is getting shorter. This might make you feel antsy, but the advice as always is: trust the process. (I am trying really hard over here!)
Monday – 6.14 mi @ 9:20 min/mi (morning temps: 39°F) + 10 min stretch + 10 min yoga
Tuesday – 20 min yoga
Wednesday – 30 min cycling + 6.11 mi @ 8:48 min/mi (morning temp: 52°F) + 10 min stretch + 10 min yoga
Thursday – 10 min+ meditation + 30 min strength + 30 min cycling + 10 min yoga
Friday – 10 min meditation 4.73 mi @ 9:31 min/mi (treadmill) + 10 min yoga
Saturday – 12 mi @ 9:16 min/mi (morning temp: 52°F) + 10 min yoga
Fuel/water: 12 oz of water + NUUN, one Hüma Chia Gel at mile 4, fruit crushers at mile 7, eight Scratch Sour Cherries Chews at mile 10.
Sunday – 8.2 @ 9:09 min/mi (afternoon temp: 39°F)
TOTAL: 37.5 mi/ 60.3 km
MARATHON TRAINING MILES: 528.6.1 miles / 851 km
Marathon Nutrition
No more new thoughts on fueling this week. Since we’re getting to the end here and we’re encouraged to no try anything new anymore but stick with what has been working, I have not tried anything else. I think I had a solid trial phase with different things and have decided that gels will probably my fuel of choice after all. I will have a Zoom Call with my running coach on Friday though where we will discuss my race day strategy.
My daily macro needs per day (calculated from this marathon nutrition guide).
| Protein | 105 g | 4-5 servings | 25g/serving |
| Carbs | 462 g | 18-19 servings | 25g/serving |
| Fats | 66 g | 6-7 servings | 10g/serving |
I averaged 85g of protein, 69 of fat, and 220 g of carbs per day, respectively.
and are merely based on daily calorie intake.
How I refueled after my long run
TL;DR – summary of the week:
The taper has begun. Training intensity and volume are slowly coming down. It’s always a bit unnerving when you’re not doing ‘as much’ as before, but it’s important to give your body some rest before the big day! As always: trust the process.
I am doing NaBloPoMo this month. 30 blog posts in 30 days. Come join me. #nablopomo2024 Links to the Participants List and NaBloPoMo2024 Blog Post Ideas! Happy writing!
coco
November 27, 2024 at 5:45 pmwoo! tapering already? that’s so exciting! I love this time, ready to go! Enjoy the race.
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:46 pmI know, I can’t believe it’s almost time to race…
Melissa
November 27, 2024 at 10:59 pmYay, I love tapering, but I think I’m lazier than you. LOL. What an incredible training cycle you’ve had. EXCITING!!!
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:46 pmThank you :)
Tobia | craftaliciousme
November 27, 2024 at 11:47 pmSo I learned a new word/term…. tapering down. Who knew.
All the best for resting and then your big day.
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:47 pmHa, yes. Tapering is a useful word… at least if you’re a runner, but I think you can use it in other contexts, too :)
iHanna
November 28, 2024 at 3:03 amI will be cheering you on, on the day. I missed it probably, but how long is the race in km?
I think you will do great!
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:47 pmThank you, Hanna. I appreciate it! The race is 26.2 miles or 42.2 km.
Elisabeth
November 28, 2024 at 4:53 amYay! I can’t believe the finish line (pun intended) is so close. All the gold stars <3
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:48 pmThanks friend. I can’t believe it’s almost time!
Ernie
November 28, 2024 at 7:06 amYou’ve worked hard to prepare and I’m sure you’ll do great. Your breakfast looks yummy.
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:48 pmThank you, Ernie! And yes, aren’t steel cut oats so good?
Alexandra
November 28, 2024 at 8:16 amYikes, I hope all this training pays off come the big day. Enjoy the rest. Oh, and hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving today!
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:48 pmHa, I hope so too. Thanks Alexandra!
Michelle G.
November 28, 2024 at 8:54 pmHow exciting – the big event is coming up quickly! I’m cheering for you!
San
November 28, 2024 at 11:49 pmThank you, Michelle. I appreciate that.