Pre-Marathon Prep: What to Do in the Week Before Your Race

TLDRIn the week before your marathon, focus on easy runs and a final run at race pace. Prioritize rest, good quality sleep, and a healthy sleep routine. Consider carb loading but avoid overhydrating. Plan and prepare for race day, including checking the course, picking up your running number, and arranging transportation. Visualize yourself at different sections of the race and create positive mantras. Stay relaxed and trust in your training.

Key insights

🏃In the week before a marathon, focus on easy runs and a final run at race pace to keep your legs ticking over.

💤Prioritize rest and good quality sleep in the week leading up to the marathon. Maintain a sleep routine and avoid screens and caffeine before bed.

🍝Consider carb loading in the last 48 hours before the race to replenish your glycogen stores. Be sensible and don't overdo it with excessive amounts of carbs.

🗺️Plan and prepare for race day by checking the course, knowing the locations of toilets and aid stations, and arranging transportation to the start area.

🧘Engage in mental preparation by visualizing yourself at different sections of the race and creating positive mantras to help you through tough moments.

Q&A

What types of runs should I do in the week before a marathon?

Focus on easy runs to keep your legs ticking over and a final run at race pace to solidify the pace in your mind and legs.

How important is sleep in the week leading up to a marathon?

Sleep is crucial for race day performance. Prioritize good quality sleep and maintain a sleep routine to ensure you're well-rested.

Should I carb load before a marathon?

Carb loading can help replenish your glycogen stores. Be sensible and increase your carb intake slightly in the last 48 hours before the race.

What should I do to prepare for race day?

Check the course, know the locations of toilets and aid stations, pick up your running number, and arrange transportation to the start area.

How can I mentally prepare for a marathon?

Visualize yourself at different sections of the race and create positive mantras that will motivate you and help you through challenging moments.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In the week before a marathon, focus on easy runs and a final run at race pace to keep your legs ticking over.

02:00Prioritize rest and good quality sleep in the week leading up to the marathon. Maintain a sleep routine and avoid screens and caffeine before bed.

03:00Consider carb loading in the last 48 hours before the race to replenish your glycogen stores. Be sensible and don't overdo it with excessive amounts of carbs.

05:00Plan and prepare for race day by checking the course, knowing the locations of toilets and aid stations, and arranging transportation to the start area.

06:00Engage in mental preparation by visualizing yourself at different sections of the race and creating positive mantras to help you through tough moments.