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Half marathon prep

by Tyler Hurst » on Jan 16, 2011 5

I really am this stupidly excited on race days. Oh, this was taken at 5:45am.

I never feel like I’m ready. Whether I ran a 10-miler ten days ago (I did, in just under 1:40) or finished a 10k a few days ago (also did, in just under :58), I can’t shake the feeling I could have done more. More lifting, more sprints and helluva lot more long runs to get ready for my 13.1 mile race tomorrow.

But tomorrow at 8:30am, ready or not, I’ll be running a half marathon for the fifth time. This will be my third time running in Five Fingers and my first time running in them on this course. Here are a few steps I’m taking to make sure my run tomorrow goes as smoothly as possible:

1. I’m drinking water like a fish
Glass after glass after pitcher it’s going down. No ice, just slightly chilled or room temperature water is being poured into me. I sweat a ton living in AZ, and being properly hydrated prior to a run helps with alertness, flexibility and endurance.

2. I’m warming up and stretching
Most people would tell you that stretching before a run doesn’t help, but I think it helps me, so I do it. Today after a short jog, I’ll be stretching my calves, quads, hamstrings, hip flexors, back and feet.

3. I’m using my baseball and golf ball
Golf ball for my feet, baseball for my quads and hip flexors. It loosens up any tension I’ve built up and will feel fantastic in the morning. While the golf ball still hurts a bit, neither ball hurts as much as it used to, proving that it’s working.

4. I’m laying out my gear tonight
This isn’t my first rodeo, but it’s weird how fast things can get screwed up if you don’t do as much as possible beforehand. My race in Seattle was less than enjoyable because I arrived to the starting line only a few minutes before the start (thanks to Seattle’s completely inept management of getting cars and their runners within two miles of the start) and I’d like not to have to do that. Hop out of bed, quick shower and I’m throwing on my gear.

5. It’s getting easier
One year ago this month I ran my last race in regular shoes. It sucked, it hurt and I ran poorly. After a year of wearing Five Fingers and two other races under my belt, I can’t shake the feeling that I’m actually kinda prepared for this one. Quick, light steps, back straight, lean forward, hips level and I’m off!

Any last minute tips?

Submitted Comments

  1. Paul M says:

    First… that picture rocks! Second, I like number five. The course seemed shorter this year. The only feedback that I would have is getting to bed early. I have been getting to sleep earlier for races but if I had the opportunity to ask one question to an elite runner, it would have to be directed towards their sleep regime. I am not sure how much of a difference that makes but would be interested to learn.

    Nice work this race and I am looking forward to seeing how you progress!

  2. Tyler Hurst says:

    Water and sleep seems to be two pretty important parts of training and race prep.

  3. Rob Lunn says:

    Hey

    Hope the run went well? Did you achieve what you set out to?

    Check out my latest blog about running, it may come in useful before your next event http://www.diversehealthandfitness.com/blog/

    Rob

  4. Shane Koller says:

    I have been street running in Vibrams for over two years now and am considering my first half marathon. Any specific tips on running in Vibrams for that distance?

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