Photo: Todd Fraser/Canada Running Series.
Recently, Canadian elite marathoner, Olympian and mother of three Krista DuChene revealed that she would be toeing the line at the 2018 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Oct. 21.
The 41-year-old is coming off a stunning third-place finish at the 2018 Boston Marathon, braving what arguably were the worst weather conditions for a major marathon in the last decade. More impressive was that her Boston outing was her 15th marathon in the past 16 years, and over this time, she shaved nearly an hour off her personal best to what it is now, 2:28:32, set at the 2013 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. After Boston in April, DuChene took a short break from training to attempt to come back stronger for what will be her fifth appearance at one of Canada’s largest marathons and the IAAF Gold Label race.
The beginning of any marathon build can be challenging, no matter the calibre of the athlete. So, like any runner does, DuChene follows a process. Based on her own preparation plan, she offers five training DO’s and DON’Ts to apply to your early marathon build.
Photo: Inge Johnson/Canada Running Series.
The following is provided by DuChene herself.
DON’T be too serious this early (16 weeks until the 2018 STWM as of writing) in the build.
But, DO mentally prepare yourself as you set objectives to achieve your race goal, keeping in mind that you have plenty of time to get there.
DON’T restrict your diet.
But, DO adequately fuel your training as you begin to ramp up the kilometres. Enjoy those treats you may limit in the last few weeks before race day.
DON’T shy away from the extras.
Instead, DO enjoy social get-togethers, later evenings and those events you need to eliminate later when in the thick of training.
DON’T be afraid to try something new in your training.
And, DO attempt a new fuelling product or a different pair of shoes. Take the opportunity now to determine if something works, or doesn’t work for you [rather than trying something new on race day].
DON’T neglect strength work and preventative maintenance.
Instead, DO begin to establish routines to stay healthy and strong in order to optimize your training and prevent injury.
Stay up to date with the latest from Canada Running Series on social media (Twitter, Instagram and Facebook) as DuChene offers more tips and tricks in the coming weeks leading into the 2018 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon.
