Here we are. Almost 20 weeks of marathon training, and it’s officially race week. I’m a little bit in shock. In some ways, I’m like “Finally! I’ve been waiting for this forever!” And in other ways I’m like, “Woah, WOAH, I am not ready for this how is it already race week?!”
It’s no secret that training for this race hasn’t exactly been fun. I was overly busy and stressed out trying to train while rehearsing and performing in Mary Poppins. Then I went on vacation and just didn’t train for a week. And then I got hurt, and it all went to hell in a handbasket. For the last month or so, I’ve been whiny, emotional, and thoroughly freaked out about this whole marathon thing. I feel bad for being so negative, but I needed to let those feelings out and process them, and you have all been incredibly kind and supportive, so thank you for that ❤
The good news is, I’m finally starting to get excited. They released photos of the medals this weekend, and they’re GORGEOUS. I can’t wait to wear mine all day on Sunday. And possibly Monday too.
Because I’m just a little bit Type A, I’m trying to approach this week with a plan. I like to be methodical, to feel like I have taken care of everything that’s within my power, so that I can go into the race knowing that I’ve done everything I can, and it’s out of my hands. So that means, it’s list time! Here’s my plan for race week.
- Hydrate like a BOSS. I’ve got a 32 oz water bottle on my desk at work, and a 25 oz water bottle on my coffee table at home. I aim to drink at least 80 oz of water each day. I’m tracking my intake with an app, cause I like data and certainty.
- Carb load responsibly. I’m trying not to make this week an excuse to eat like an asshole. I’m trying to get my carbs mostly from whole grains, sweet potatoes, and less fibrous veggies and fruits.
- Know my sh*t. Study the Runner Essentials handbook. Familiarize myself with the course. Know how I’m getting to the start line. Know where I’m meeting my family after the race. Make sure I have all the information I need so that nothing throws me for a loop and freaks me out on race day.
- Make self-care and recovery a priority. Stretch. Foam roll. Go to yoga. Take extra good care of my body so I feel rested and well on race day.
- Get lots of good quality sleep. I know that nerves will probably make sleeping on Saturday night a challenge, so I’m determined to get caught up on rest during the week. In bed, lights out, no later than 10 every night. This may be challenging as I’ve got some fun parties that are happening, but I just need to stay strong and remember that the marathon is a goal I’ve been working toward for months, and I need to prioritize it over partying.
- Take it one day at a time. I’m doing my best not to freak out. I’m trying to just focus on what I need to do each day, and not worry about what tomorrow will bring. This is hard. I’m worried about the weather, I’m worried about my foot, I’m worried about a lot, but I’m trying not to let it get to me.
Any other advice for marathon prep?
Sounds like you’ve got it all worked out chica. The only thing left to do is enjoy the experience, know that we are all so friggin’ proud of you, and know that no matter what, you are going to kick that pavement’s ass!
Thank you so much! ❤
You’ve got this – especially with those prep plans and positive mindset going into it. Just enjoy the experience and focus on finishing. Take in all the crowd support (I’ve heard it’s really good at that race!) and high five the little kids – that’s how I flew through the first half of my first marathon 😀 Also, my crew will have a table at the expo and will definitely be selling Fueled by Doughnuts gear if you’re interested 🙂 They won’t have doughnuts though (which is probably a good thing to not be tempted by pre-race!! lol) b/c of the transportation required for that process. Good luck!!
Thank you, Charissa! And I think I need a Fueled by Donuts shirt 😉
There should be plenty of colors to choose from too!
GIRL YOU GOT THIS. Just think, you have already been through so much–you have the mental prep of an ox at this point 😀
ALL THE FEELINGS!
Sounds like you are 110% ready for this Marathon! I’m so excited for you and can’t wait to read about it. You’ve got this, you are going to rock it!
Thank you so much, Anna!
No advice to add – sounds like you’ve got it all under control! 😉 Good luck and godspeed and I hope you have a good week!
Thank you, Dana! I cannot believe it’s almost here!
Ahhhhhh!!!!! I can’t wait for you!!!!! ❤
Thank you! I’m getting so excited/nervous!
You’ve got it dialed in, Homegirl! Hydrate like a BOSS is right! And don’t forget to add some salt to your food this week. The weekend looks hot and gorgeous! Oh. AND I’LL BE THERE!!!! Hoping to see you at the finish!!! I’m running a relay! I’m proud of you already. GET IT DONE!!!!
Thank you so much! And good call on the salt. I’ll get on that. Are you doing the 2-person or 5-person relay? Which legs are you running? I hope we can meet up!
2-Person! I run the first half. So I’ll definitely be at the finish, cheering wildly for you!!!!! I’m so excited for you!!!
😀