Hello Everyone,
Now is the stage in training where you should conduct an honest assessment of your performance in training and fundraising. Compare your weekly mileage to the Marathon Coalition schedule to determine if adjustments are necessary. While this schedule isn’t etched in stone, you should be running the total weekly mileage even if you have to switch days around.
Also consider how you’re performing with your running technique and whether there’s room for improvement. Proper and efficient running technique should be ongoing focus. I focus mostly on having efficient running form the first two miles of every run. I am also mindful of my form when I begin to tire. Losing your form in the latter miles of a run requires greater effort to complete the distance and also places you at greater risk of injury. Taking regular walk breaks (e.g., 1 minute of walking for every 9 minutes of running) allows you to maintain proper and efficient running form longer.
Also assess how you’re doing with your fundraising. The ebb and flow of fundraising poses another level of challenge in the process of training for Boston. Sustaining momentum in training and fundraising is an important component of this journey. I think of running the Boston Marathon as a gift to yourself and the money you raise is undoubtedly a gift to others…it’s a wonderful combination.
I hope that you will reflect on the beginning of this journey and how much distance you’ve covered…figuratively and literally. You may have had doubts about whether you could actually complete the Boston Marathon…you should certainly now have more confidence that you can.
Please reach out to Coach Greg or me and let us know how we can help you with any aspect of your training. And don’t hesitate to contact the staff of your respective charity if you need help with your fundraising. The challenge of running the Boston Marathon and exceeding your fundraising goals requires a Herculean effort-that’s why not too many people accept the challenge.
But you have and that speaks volumes about your commitment to serving others and making a significant difference in the world.
I’m so proud of you and inspired by your example!
Your Coach,
Rick
Rick Muhr
Boston Marathon Running Coach