I recall my first marathon; It was the LA Marathon. I was 27 years old, inexperienced and persuaded into doing it because not only was it for a good cause but my friend convinced me that it would be fun! Boy, was I in for a rude awakening. Not only did it take me 8 hours to complete but because I had no training, I walked most of it. I could barely walk by the end. I thought I would never walk again. I also told myself I would never do one again, ever!
At the time I did not realize that running would one day become my passion and outlet, something of my own. Who would have thought after that experience I would then become an avid runner. Fifteen years later I decided I would try to run a race, since then I have completed several half marathons, marathons and a few triathlons including a full Ironman distance. How did I go from a dreadful run to finishing several races? Well, it all started with a leap of faith and lots of lessons.
Those lessons taught me 3 key components that have helped me to prepare for a race (or simply your next run). I want to share them with you so you can use running (or walking, biking, swimming, hiking and more) when you travel near or far to get outdoors to spend good time with others and God. The 3 keys are:
TRAIN SMART
Training for a race, whether you are a beginner or seasoned athlete is hard work, it takes discipline and consistency. Getting out the door is the first step. Find a place that will inspire you, like the beach or a park nearby. Nature always seems to awaken my spirit and connect me with the beauty around me.
Sometimes, you won’t wake in the morning ready to tackle a run. Instead, you may want to sleep later than usual. However, staying consistent is key to progress and a healthy rhythm. So, its good to get in the routine of going to bed early and having your running clothes and gear prepared the night before.
Have a plan and a goal, you will be more dedicated if you know what you should be doing and the direction you’re going. If you need help, hire a coach to help you train. Following a training plan can help build up your miles safely.
Also consider and research joining a running group. These groups have a variety of athletes at different levels. Seasoned athletes can share nuggets of information from their personal experience that can help you become a better athlete. Groups also offer the support that you need and can be super fun.
It’s also important to add strength training with mobility work and stretching/breathing to your training. This will help your body strengthen areas of weakness, which in turn can help prevent injury and make you a stronger runner. There are resources like apps that you can download along with books and videos specifically to help you strength train for running.
During training I have experienced some of my most memorable sunrises. I have felt peace and inspiration especially when I am surrounded by Gods beauty. Let’s build on this training advice by moving next to my favorite subject, nutrition!
TAILOR YOUR NUTRITION
Nutrition is another key component to preparing for your next outdoor hike, bike or race. It is especially important when you are training for an endurance race (or anything that will require endurance).
Eating the right foods during training is important. It makes the difference between being sluggish or energized. So if you are looking for a personal best, watching what you eat and how much you eat is essential to achieving your goal. Practicing your race nutrition DURING training. Determine what works well for you and is least likely not to upset your stomach. The best time to do this is regularly as part of your training routine – BEFORE race day!
Race nutrition can break you or make you. Knowing what to consume is individual for everyone and not a one size fits all. Seek a professional if you have special needs or if you want to take your diet to a higher level. A dietician, certified nutritionist or health coach are useful to guide you and tailor a plan that is individual for your unique diet.
If cost is an issue, there are plenty of resources out there with nutrition advice, nutritional podcast, books, apps, blogs and many more. You don’t have to figure it all out at once and your needs will change as you evolve as an athlete. Listen to your body it will speak to you. That is why my next component is recovery.
VALUE AND MAINTAIN CONSISTENT RECOVERY
Recovery IS part of training. There are many options available from fancy gadgets that help with recovery to simple options like sleep and taking days off to recover.
Taking days off from training when you’re experiencing high fatigue is important. Getting a massage for injury prevention a few times a month or more is a form of recovery and injury prevention. Sleeping 8 hours is a cheap and easy way to recover. Squeeze in a nap if you are doing high training. When you sleep your body is repairing itself from all the tissue damage from training and its becoming stronger.
If you feel a nudge, a wiggle a sprain take a few days off or go see a physical therapist if it persist. It’s best to address the issue right away, instead of pushing through it, listen to your body it may be having a hard time adapting to the load in training and you may need an extra day to recover and rest that muscle.
Instead of running you may want to cross train and give that muscle a break. A rest day may even help push through another week of hard work out. So make recovery a consistent part of your race preparation (or if you’re not training for a race simply part of your routine). When you value recovery and maintain it you’ll experience the fuller strength God intends for you.
THE PATH AHEAD IS NOT IMPOSSIBLE – HAVE FAITH
My story has had a far different and much more abundant outcome than I thought it would. After finishing that first marathon and recovering, deep down I wondered if I could ever run one. That small whisper in me, God heard. He was listening.
As you know now, yes I did continue my journey and although I have learned so much about preparing for a race and I’m still learning. The most important lessons I have learned is through God’s presence in my training. He has been present through the amazing people he has brought into my life to all the wonderful places racing has taken me, I am abundantly grateful.
In short, yes train as best as you can but also have faith you never know where your path may lead, God works in the impossible. Even if your faith is as small as a mustard seed, God is listening and is able to move mountains. Don’t give up! Choose faith and get moving.
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