The ideal formula for marathon races should go: motivation + adequate training + sufficient preparation + intrinsic abilities = success. However, finding balance in this formula will be difficult, but here are some tips for the seasoned marathon runner: athletes undergo training religiously over the course of 6 months prior to the race; consult a physician or a sports doctor for advice in case you decide to try a new fitness or training regiment prior to the marathon; when the marathon is less than two weeks away, try running less; and finally, visualize how you would cross that finish line.
Some say that the first hurdle to overcome when enlisting in marathon races is to find the motivation to do so.
The ideal formula for marathon races goes: motivation + adequate training + sufficient preparation + intrinsic abilities = success. The definition of success differs from athlete to athlete, and so should be the “ideal” formula that leads to it. Marathon runners need to be in peak physical condition. Diet and a great training program are essential elements, especially since marathon races run for about 3 to 7 hours in a row.
It is also advisable that prior to the actual marathon, athletes undergo training religiously over the course of 6 months; this could work as a tool for endurance building. During that time, it would be best to set small goals to accomplish: perhaps, you could push yourself to finish longer distances per week. The long term goal is to finish the marathon, but during the training period, targeting small goals will boost your motivation to succeed.
As a professional athlete, you should remember that physical health is a priority. It would be best if you could consult a physician or a sports doctor for advice in case you decide to try a new fitness or training regiment prior to the marathon. Drastic changes will not do your performance any good, especially if they are haphazardly set and untested. Be forgiving when it comes to your body. Punishing yourself with hard training will only wear your muscles out, and may eventually lead to muscle damage. If that happens, not only will your performance fail, but your morale will go down as well.
When running a marathon is less than two weeks away, try running less; tapering your schedule will actually help your body regenerate the much needed energy reserves. Also, during this time, try to establish a comfortable pace. Don’t go running off too fast because that will only tire you out. Most runners try to skimp on their food and water intake prior to the race, with hopes that they do not add more weight to their carriage.
This kind of thinking is detrimental to the athlete’s heath and functioning. In order to have energy, a person must have sustenance. Diet is a critical factor of course and that means not to skip meals prior to the race. Staying hydrated during the marathon is also important. Although sweat cools the body as it is excreted from the skin’s pores, it is imperative that the water you drink further cools down the body. Without water, cells begin to die from over exerting themselves; and many, many athletes have succumb to heat strokes or exhaustion simply because they refused to drink water during the marathons.
Finally, experts are saying that the best form of motivation is to see yourself crossing the finish line. Visualization is one of the vital keys to boost confidence in many runners. There is no scientific study that says that visualization affects athletic performance in any way, but this is a tool to motivate you to finish the race. If this doesn’t work for you, then it is up to you and your trainer what motivation tool you may want to use.
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