6 Tips For Races & Marathon Training
Spring is in full swing and summer will be here before we know it. For those who are preparing to race, including marathon training, it’s a great time of year to dial in your race prep. If you’re wondering how to prepare for races, we’ve gathered some great tips. These 6 tips will include some advice specific to marathon training, but many of the suggestions below will apply to any race distance.
Check out our 6 Tips For Races & Marathon Training
- Get a Proper Shoe Fitting – This will forever be our number one tip when it comes to race prep, whether you’re preparing for a spring race or a race for another time of year. The best way to make sure you’re in the right shoes for you is a proper shoe fitting. We suggest finding your local running specialty shop and asking them to evaluate your gait and stride. At St Pete Running Company, we offer a one-of-a-kind StrideSmart Shoe Fitting Process.
- Get Biomechanics Testing – NEW! Get expert advice at St Pete Running Company. This is crucial when you’re preparing to run 26.2 miles! We’re excited to announce that a biomechanist will be taking appointments at our Tyrone location to do a deep dive into your running form and biomechanics. You can schedule an appointment with Andrew Paxton, BS, MS, to have your biomechanics tested and get a deep analysis of your running form by emailing robertpaxton11@gmail.com.
- Focus on Hydration and Nutrition – The humidity and heat are already high here in Florida. Hydration is key! Drink plenty of water (at least 64 ounces a day for most individuals), and take electrolytes before your workouts. That way you’re storing up what your body will need for the run, not chasing what’s been lost after the fact. Fuel with good nutrition. Carbs and protein are important. Minimize added sugars where you can.
- Run with a Group – Accountability? Check. Camaraderie? Check. Encouragement from fellow runners? Check. When you run with a group, there are people who will cheer you on, and you can cheer them on, too! You are more likely to show up for your workouts when a group is there for you to meet up with. Check out our free Group Runs below.
- Join Our Track Program – Improve your V02 max and your lactate threshold while learning how to increase your pace with speed work! We offer a Wednesday track program at Northside Christian School Track (7777 62nd Ave N, St Pete, FL). First-timers, come and check out the program for free! Drop-in rate is $15 per session. You can sign up at the start of each new program to get a discount. See our training page for more details on the current track program.
- Start Early – To beat the heat for your long runs in marathon training, set your alarm for an early rise. When the sun is out, your workout will get harder, and we’re all about training smarter, not harder! If you can’t start early due to work or other commitments, try an evening run. Avoid the heat of the day if possible.
Where Can You Find a Free Group Run?
St Pete Running Company hosts free Group Runs twice a week at both of our locations. That gives you four opportunities to join a free run group each week. We welcome walkers, joggers, and runners of all levels. You can come as you are. Bring family, friends, dogs on leashes who do well in groups, strollers, or just bring yourself and be prepared to make a few new friends!
Group Runs at St Pete Running Company Tyrone
Every Monday and Thursday at 6:30 PM
6986 22nd Ave N, St Pete, FL 33710
Group Runs at St Pete Running and Coffee
Every Tuesday at 7:00 AM and Saturday at 7:30 AM
2601 Dr MLK Jr Street N, St Pete, FL 33704
Do you still have questions about spring races & marathon training? We can help! Call us at 727-800-5043 or come into the store, where our shoe experts are ready to provide the high-quality customer service you expect from a Top 50 Running Store in America.
