Oct 29, 2013
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Phoenix Marathon running tips + giveaway

Have you signed up  for the Phoenix Marathon yet? If not, now is the time! Race day is set for Saturday, March 1st giving you plenty of time to train no matter what level you are currently at. Being from the Phoenix area, March is my very favorite month of the year in Arizona. I have personally ran one full marathon back in 2007 and I’m really considering dusting off my old shoes, grabbing my Garmin and training for this race. Who wants to do it with me?   Use code: lipstick10 to receive $10 off your entry when you sign up HERE
10 Marathon Training Tips

10. Pick a Training Plan- There are numerous training programs available. Ask yourself:

  • How many miles are you currently logging each week?
  • What is the distance of your long run(s)?
  • How experience are you? Is this your first marathon or your twenty-fifth?

Based on these answers, you will be better able to choose a program the best suites your individual needs.

9. Get the Right Shoes. Running is a relatively low-cost sport. The only gear you “need” is a pair of shoes, and some argue that even those are not a necessity. Make sure your shoes are in good condition, as to provide your feet and legs with proper support. If you are plagued with shin splints, sore feet and knees, you may need a different shoe. Every runner has a different gait. If you are not sure which shoes are the best fit for your running style, visit your local running shoe store (many offer a free analysis). Most shoes last 300-400 miles. Wearing the proper shoes will provide better support and reduce the risk of injury. And remember: tighten those laces! If you can slip your shoe off and on, they are too loose, which leave you more susceptible to injury.

8. Get a running partner. Do something to hold yourself accountable. Set a goal; set smaller daily or weekly goals to help you achieve your bigger goals! Share with friends and family what you are trying to accomplish, and remember everyone has bad days and weeks in running. Just push through it, and you will move on to better, more rewarding runs!

7. Hydration – Proper hydration is key to runners. A good rule of thumb for beginners is to weigh themselves before and after a run. A loss of weight immediately after a run can be attributed to fluid loss.

6. Mimic Race Day Conditions- Train outside; If you must run on a treadmill, increase the incline to better simulate the Race Course. Additionally, determine which Sports Drinks and fuels the race is offering, and incorporate those into your training.

5. Rest Days & Cross Training – Running every single day can be both tedious and strenuous on your body. Incorporating a cross training day into you schedule can be beneficial. If your muscles are fatigued, consider biking or swimming. You will still get the benefits of the cardio, and it will give your muscles an extra day to recover.

4. Long Slow Distances – Arguably the most important run you will incorporate into your training program; LSD should be 30-45 seconds slower per mile than projected marathon pace. Consider running the last 2-4 miles at Tempo pace.

3. Be flexible- Listen to your body; if you require extra rest, consider a cross training day, slower intervals or shorter runs. While some aches and pains may seem minor, they can quickly progress to larger problems. Seek medical advice for any ongoing ailments.

2. Race Pace – While it can be tempting to run a fast pace at the beginning of a marathon, it is never advisable. Do your best to either run a consistent pace, or run negative splits.

1. Trust in your Training- Running is a mental sport. Maintain a positive attitude and have confidence in the hard work you have done. And most importantly, have fun!

The team at Phoenix Marathon wants to give one lucky reader their very own Garmin Forerunner 10 (you get to choose your color) and an official Run Phx pullover! This awesome package retails for $210! 

To enter:
1. Follow Phx Marathon on Facebook, Instagram @phxmarathon & Twitter
2. Leave a comment telling us why you love to run. 

Winner will be announced on Tuesday Nov. 5th. 
Good luck! 

XXO 




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  1. I literally just signed up and I’m scared and excited! Thanks for the coupon code!! I did the social media requirements. I like to run because it helps me work through stress and I love that tired, but energized feeling it gives me. I have taken way too long of a break from it. Thanks for posting this! That watch is awesome.

  2. I love to run because it’s my “me” time, and it makes me feel strong, powerful, and just plain great!

  3. I I love to run! Running is my “me time”. I like to push myself to be a better person and runner. Getting out for my runs helps me to accomplish both these as it allows me to think and set new goals.

  4. Love this giveaway! I love to run because I was always so scared to run at first – after pushing myself I was able to run a little more and more each day! Now, I just love running. It is my time to clear my mind and rejuvenate! It pushes me to reach my goals and is so rewarding!

    Following PHX Marathon on Twitter (@bringonthenews), IG (calliebowers) and FB (calliecbowers)

    Crossing my fingers! xo

  5. Running is the best way for me to push myself and learn my limits. I also love the quiet. 🙂

    I follow Phoenix Marathon on Twitter and IG as @katygmorris and like them on FB as Katy M.

    Thanks for the great giveaway!

    katygmorris at gmail dot com

  6. Running my first marathon taught me that I am capable of doing far more than I ever dreamed possible. That lesson has carried over into many different aspects of my life and is currently what is sustaining me during my first year of medical school. Cheers to running!

  7. I am following all 3. I love to run because I love setting goals and achieving them. I love the way it makes me feel accomplished. It helps me feel healthy and strong. It gives me the best endorphins and mostly because of how AMAZING it feels when I STOP!! 😉 Thanks for the awesome giveaway. Fingers crossed!!

  8. I have had my eye on this watch for weeks. I just finished my fourth marathon this year and it would be a great addition to my up and coming races! I love to run because it physically and mentally challenging!

  9. Now following on all… I love to run because I love the thrill of a PR, the thrill of race day and the thrill of doing something you couldn’t do before. It is great therapy during stressful times and even when it is a “bad workout” I still love running. I have been running since I was 13 and have lived in 5 different cities over that time; running is “home” to me. It is my way of getting to explore all the new towns, the new trails, and getting to experience just the beauty of nature. Whether it is 90 degrees or below zero, I love just being out there to be able to escape and experience. I can’t imagine not being able to run- it is a great blessing!

  10. Running is my “me” time. Being a working mom of three with a husband who has a busy schedule, I find little time to myself. Running has been the key ingredient to a healthy, happier me. I feel more energy throughout the day and a sense of accomplishment when I stick to a running schedule.

  11. I run so I can eat what i want! it is the best calorie burner, great way to desstress from a long day, can go anytime, never boring, listen to great music,

  12. Done and done. I love running because it’s like pushing a reset button for me. I run when my husband gets home from work just as the sun is setting usually. Between the beautiful Arizona sunset and all the much needed ‘me’ time, I’m like a new woman when I get home. Everybody wins!

  13. I have to run. Running is my thinking time, my spiritual time, my me time. When I have long strips of time without a run (bc I’ve been sick, pregnant, busy) I find myself starting to exhibit depression symptoms and know I’ve got to hit the trails soon.

  14. I ran my first marathon last year, I’m in girls lets run it! I ran the Phoenix half this year and it was great!!! I was planning on running the half again, but if love to do a full!

    This giveaway is right up my alley, I run daily and am in need of these items so it is a perfect marriage!!

  15. Currently training for my first marathon right now! The PF Changs in AZ in January! The PHX Marathon has also been on mind…but we will see how #1 goes first. 🙂 For me, it’s that amazing feeling of accomplishment you get after finishing a race or long run that keeps me coming back for more!

  16. Following on FB and IG (no Twitter account). I am running in my 2nd half marathon this weekend and I have been wishing I had the Garmin forerunner watch the entire time I have been training. I ran my first half before I had kids, and now that I have 2, running has become so much more than just exercise for my body. I love to run because it rejuvenates me, gives me clarity of mind, and makes me a better person.

  17. I love to run! Its such a stress reliever for me. I really look forward to my morning run before my kids wake up 🙂

  18. following!.running is my me time. I love tuning in to nature and feeling the adrenalin that comes from pushing your body to perform. long distance running is a complete high!

  19. Following! I read a quote somewhere that said “running: the human body’s most raw form of freedom” I run to be free, to clear my head, to prove to myself that i can do hard things,and who doesn’t love a good runners high?!

  20. Following on both!
    I have to admit this… I don’t love to run. I really don’t, and I’m slow and awkward and get winded. But the truth is, I run because I can. I have a healthy body and legs and lungs that work, and I am so grateful. My husband, who is a runner, tells me that there will be that turning point when I start to love it, and I can’t wait to get there! That being said, I do love the time it gives me to take a breath and clear my head.
    twitter: ilseriebe
    instagram: ilsecolby
    email: ilseriebe@gmail.com

  21. Following on both!
    I have to admit this… I don’t love to run. I really don’t, and I’m slow and awkward and get winded. But the truth is, I run because I can. I have a healthy body and legs and lungs that work, and I am so grateful. My husband, who is a runner, tells me that there will be that turning point when I start to love it, and I can’t wait to get there! That being said, I do love the time it gives me to take a breath and clear my head.
    twitter: ilseriebe
    instagram: ilsecolby
    email: ilseriebe@gmail.com

  22. To be honest I am not a “runner” but my brother recently challenged me to sign up for a half marathon this Spring. This article was so helpful and I would love to win this awesome watch!!

  23. I love running because it has improved my health, energy level and given me the opportunity to encourage others with fitness.

  24. Following (IG, FB, Twitter) I love running because not only is it exhilirating but it is helping me in my weightloss journey. I have lost 20 pounds to date and it continues. I also look to it as a release and not just working out.

  25. Following! (Don’t have twitter). I love running to get away and have some alone time! Give the baby to my husband and just go! Love the workout too 🙂

  26. I love running because it takes my stress away. Even if my two little ones are with me they are usually quiet in the stroller taking in the views. I followed on instagram and Facebook. I don’t have Twitter.

  27. I LOVEE to run/cycle! It cheaper than therapy for me so I do it everyday! I would love to win this!!! Fingers and toes crossed 🙂

  28. I love to run because it is helping me lose weight and get in control of a medical condition that I was recently diagnosed with. Thanks for the chance to win.

    Dbyrne1[at]gmail[dot]com