So, You Want to Run a Marathon in 2022?
Whether you’re new to running or you’ve been around the block a few times (pun intended), your first marathon can seem daunting. Covering 26.2 miles on foot is no small feat, and many people don’t know where to start to prepare for such a task.
I have put together a few easy tips to get you started on your marathon journey!
Find a Support System
Whether it’s a running partner, a run group, or an online community, having people to hold you accountable is important. They’ll help you get out the door on the days it seems impossible. Plus, there’s a good chance they will know things you don’t, so you’ll be able to ask questions and learn things.
Get the Right Gear
Running is great because you don’t need a lot of equipment to do it. But there are a few important things to keep in mind. Having the right shoes on your feet can make the miles seem easier and help prevent injury. Head to your nearest run specialty store to have your gait analyzed by a professional so you can get the right shoes for your feet. I also recommend investing in comfortable running clothes that fit you well and are designed for whatever elements you’ll be training in. If you’re running in the winter, make sure you have appropriate clothing to keep you warm.
Make a Training Plan
If you find a training group, you might be able to get a training plan from them. If not, you need to make sure you find one that is geared to your current fitness level and will provide you with the necessary training to complete your marathon. Thankfully, the internet has tons of resources on this and many different plans to choose from. You can even find coaches online to help guide you through this journey.
Practice Your Race Day
This doesn’t mean run the full race; it means do everything that you would do on a race day on some training runs. Need a new pair of shoes? Don’t debut those on marathon morning. Looking to try some new hydration or nutrition? Don’t break those out for the first time at mile 10 of the race.
Making sure that everything you need for your marathon works for you and your body is important to ensure that you’re setting yourself up for race day success.
Be Patient
Running a marathon isn’t easy, and neither is preparing for one. When you first start it might seem impossible that you’ll ever complete that 26.2 miles. The best thing you can do is to take each day one at a time. Focus on what you have to do that day and enjoy the journey. After all, this is supposed to be fun. Before you know it, you’ll have finished your first marathon!
Run a Marathon in 2022 Bucket List
