Six weeks into marathon training and let me just say—it’s getting real, but in the best kind of way. I’ve officially made it through my first double-digit training run (hello, 10 miles!), and my body is finally starting to adjust to the rhythm of long runs, weekday miles, and cross-training.
Let’s catch up, shall we?
🚨 Training Team Switch-Up
Week 1 I made a big decision to switch from Team Crimson to Team Skittles (because why not add a little flavor to this journey, right?). Skittles offers two training levels: 500 and 700. After taking a realistic look at my schedule, energy, and overall life as That Mother Runner of three amazing kids, I chose the 500 plan. It’s been the perfect pace for me—challenging but manageable. As a first-time marathoner, I’m learning to respect the distance while still giving myself room to grow.
🗓 Weeks 5 & 6: Hitting a Groove
These last two weeks have been solid. I’ve been consistent, motivated, and finding my stride.
Today’s long run was a huge milestone: 10 miles. Not only did I complete it, but I did it well below my race pace, keeping it easy and steady just like we’re coached to do. I’m proud of myself for listening to my body and training smart.
Weekly Wins
- ✅ Logged all weekday runs (even on the treadmill!)
- ✅ Completed 50 Pilates sessions 🎉
- ✅ Stuck to my goal of 3x a week Pilates
- ✅ No knee pain (!!)—thanks to compression and adjustments
- ✅ Met some awesome new running friends!
SAG Station Snacking Favorites
Let’s talk snacks. During today’s long run SAGs (support and gear stops), I discovered my new favorite running fuel:
- Espresso coffee beans (game changer!)
- Pickle juice (don’t knock it till you try it)
- Skinny pretzel sticks (salty and satisfying)
- Grape sugar-free Gatorade powder (refreshingly decent)
Yes, I may or may not have planned my next grocery trip around these finds.
✨ Lessons Learned
- Gloss your thighs, girl. The chafing from today reminded me that Body Glide or a good anti-chafe balm is non-negotiable. I should know better!
- Compression works. The first few weeks of training were tough on my knees, but ever since I added compression sleeves into the mix, I’ve been pain-free.
- Slow is strong. Keeping my long run pace slow has been hard on my ego but great for my endurance.
The Journey Continues…
I still have many miles to go, but I’m finally starting to feel like a wow I am training for and will run a marathon! The small wins are stacking up, and the discipline is beginning to pay off. From switching plans to finding the perfect salty snack, I’m learning that marathon training isn’t just about logging miles—it’s about adapting, listening, and enjoying the ride (even when it’s sweaty and uphill).
More miles, more laughs, and maybe more pickle juice to come. Stay tuned.