Marathon Training: The Week Before Race Day

Running a marathon is no easy feat. It takesweather to see what to expect on race day.
months of preparation and dedication. After thisMake sure you have the proper shoes, socks,
long preparatory process it is important to takeand outfit for the weather. Don't forget to
the final steps the week before the race tostretch!
make sure you are maximally prepared to takeSaturday - Run 2 miles today. Make sure you
on your marathon. Here is a day by day scheduletake it easy on this run. The whole point of this
of what you should be doing to prepare the weekrun is to get your muscles moving the day before
before the marathon.the race. Stretch out well before and after the
Monday - Rest day. Do not run today since yourun to make sure that you will not be stiff for the
probably have done a 4 mile run the day before,big race tomorrow. Have a hearty dinner filled
but make sure you still stretch out well and staywith high protein and carbohydrates such as
hydrated.spaghetti and meatballs.
Tuesday - Run 3 miles today. Make sure youSunday (Race Day) - Make sure you eat before
stretch before and after your run and drinkthe race. Don't eat anything that you normally
plenty of fluids throughout the day.wouldn't before a race. Some good choices are
Wednesday - Run 4 miles today. Stretch out welloatmeal, a bagel and cream cheese, or a cereal
today and stay hydrated. Plan out how much timewith fiber and whole grains.
you are going to need to get to the race andThe week before a marathon is the time that
decide if you are going to drive or take publicyou make sure that you are hydrated for your
transportation. You do not want to be stressedrace and have eaten the proper foods so that
out about these details the morning of the race.you have enough fuel to run 26.2 miles. Be sure
Thursday - Rest Day. Do not run today but makeyou have tapered and stretched enough that
sure you still stretch out your muscles to preventmuscles are rested and ready to run. If you
them from getting too stiff. Don't forget tofollow these simple steps the week before the
hydrate well today.marathon you will complete your marathon
Friday - Rest Day. Do not run today. Check thetraining and ensure a successful race.