The hard work for the year is done for some of us long distance runners as we take a break from long runs and tough speed work and settle into more leisurely runs or shorter races. Although recovery is a major part of any exercise program, in order to improve, it’s important to not stop doing what you’re doing completely. You may have had a training plan for your half or full marathon, but they don’t come with a post-race plan usually, unless you also worked with a coach. I will share some of my own personal tips that I’ve myself followed or taught my running coaching clients, to guide you the days, weeks and even months after your race.
Immediately following a race, it’s important to focus on refueling your tank. I know I usually can’t eat right away, but a drink with electrolytes like Gatorade or beer will usually help settle my stomach and then I’m usually ready to eat within 30 minutes. It’s very crucial to get your fluid and sodium intake after a long, tough run. Your stomach might be queasy but once you’re able to, have a small snack until you’re ready to handle a meal consisting of protein and carbohydrates. The night after a race, you may want to try an ice bath and focus on getting quality sleep. If it was a hilly race, you may even need a day off from work the following day.
A few days after your marathon, you can indulge in a massage. I got a massage at Spavia of Greater Morristown a few days after the Lehigh Valley Marathon. With a massage you can experience decreased tension and tightness, realign muscle fibers, and release any adhesions between tissues. And of course, it just feels good and you deserve it! At Spavia, you get a comfy spa robe and sandals and a neck pillow for relaxing in the retreat room while your masseuse comes to get you. You can make a selection of the type of music you’d like to be played as well as the lotion of your preference. I left feeling rejuvenated, pampered and with relaxed muscles…and highly recommend making an appointment if you’re in the area. I look forward to checking out some of their other services like their Vita-C Radiance facial (a hydrating skincare treatment because my skin tends to get very dry in the cold months!) as well as the Nourishing Antioxidant Wrap.
During the few weeks after a marathon or half marathon, it is essential to keep your mileage and your heart rate low. By giving your body a chance to fully and deeply recover, you can be on the road to faster results in your upcoming events. Also, it’s important to give your mind a break from the focus of training, so that when your body is indeed ready to run hard again, you will have the mental energy to make it happen. Listen to your body and once you feel well rested, you may continue back to your normal running routine.
Don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments! Download all your race photos, share them on social media or print out your favorites- you can even make a photo album if it’s too hard to choose just one! Regardless of your time, revel in the fact that you crossed a finish line! If there are no races in your future, keep running but don’t concern yourself too much with pace or even distance.
This running season continues for some of us with shorter races like Turkey Trots and Santa Runs. Some of my running clients have been following a 5-week Fit to Run program and we’re considering doing another group race together after Thanksgiving. It’s been amazing watching them improve each week as they’ve gotten fitter, leaner and faster. When they signed up for the program, they were treated with special discounts from a few local places including Spavia, Athleta of Morristown and Verrilli’s Bakery and Pizzeria and I’m sure they’re thinking about treating themselves soon after all their hard work.
A few weeks ago, I became a Certified Revo2lution Running Coach, a certification created by running expert and 2011 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year Dr. Jason Karp. This program was super helpful in providing specific workouts to increase VO₂max, raise the lactate threshold, and improve running economy. This comprehensive certification, which I did online, comprised of the following 8 manuals: Running Physiology, Running Technique, Running Training, Running Workouts, Running Injuries, Running for Weight Loss, Running Programs in Gyms, and REVO₂LUTION RUNNING™ Group Treadmill Class.
I’m full of newfound knowledge and I’m ready to help you with your 2018 running goals, whether it’s your first race or you’re looking to improve your current level, reach out so we can see if we work together!
Happy Sunday,
Julia
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