Lydia's 5 Tips for Reaching PR Goal

I think there are several things I did different this time in training for the Chicago Marathon.  Every marathon I train for I always seem to learn something new.  I'm self taught and don't pay big bucks for a coach and believe that anyone can reach their goals.  I want to share a couple of tips I did this time:

Tip #1:  Stay Positive - You got to be dedicated to your training, stay positive and most importantly you have to believe in yourself.  You can do this!

Tip#2:  Stay Dedicated to Your Training - Since I knew that I was going to run two marathons 3 weeks from one another I decided to train for only 12 weeks instead of 16-18 weeks.  It seems like when I train that long, I always end up with an overuse injury.  I did the 12 week training plan when I ran Boston back in April 2015 using Hal Hidgons Boston Bond Training Plan.  I just tweaked to make it my own.  From here on, I plan to just train for that long for future marathons too.  It's what works for me.  If you are just beginning, stick to longer weeks until you build up your endurance and your whole level of fitness.

Tip#3:  Do Hill and Speed Work - Find somewhere where you live that has hills and run them once a week.  This not only helps you with strength building, but you'll feel confident and will be able to tackle that one crazy hill during the marathon when it comes up.  There is always at least one right?    For speed work, go to the track and do 800s and 400s.  This will make you faster.  Incorporate these into your training and do each of these at least once a week.

Tip#4:  Cross Train is a Must - I'm a cycle instructor and teach at L.A. Fitness three time a week.  I use this as my cross training and believe it has helped me stay injury free.  If cycle is not your thing, you can swim, do cross fit, yoga, play basketball, weight training (do on days you run lower mileage).  Try to something other than just running least 1-2 times per weeks.

Tip#5:  Eat Clean - This is probably the hardest one of all.  Being Hispanic, my mom is always trying to feed me things that are not always healthy and wants to fatten me up..LOL.  I work in education and there are always some sort of treats in the teachers lounge that someone is giving us.  Temptation is everywhere, but you must stay strong and remember your goal!  Stay away from processed foods and precook your meals to take to work.  Don't eat anything that you can't pronounce on the ingredient label.  You are allowed to have one cheat day a week, but don't overdo it and make every meal that day a cheat meal.  I also try to eat smaller portions and eat every 2-2.5 hours.  If you can't do this the whole time you are training, I recommend doing this at least 3-4 weeks before your marathon to reach your goal.

***NOTE***I am no expert and this is what works for me. Please consult with your health physician before you start any fitness training.