The days leading up to a marathon are crucial for any runner, regardless of experience level. After months of training, you’ve built up your endurance, honed your pace, and prepared your body for the challenge. However, the final days require careful planning and a structured routine to ensure you’re in peak condition when you toe the starting line. This guide will help you optimize your routine in the critical time leading to the marathon.

1. Tapering: The Art of Scaling Back

Tapering is crucial for marathon preparation, allowing your body to recover while maintaining fitness. It typically begins two to three weeks before race day, during which you gradually reduce your long runs and overall weekly mileage.

For instance, if your peak training included a 20-mile run, your final taper run might be 8 to 10 miles. Your weekly mileage should drop to 50-60% of peak levels. The goal is to arrive on race day with fresh legs and a rested body, ready to perform at your best.

Also read: How to Recover After Running a Marathon

2. Nutrition: Fueling for Success

What you eat in the days leading up to the marathon can greatly affect your performance. Nutrition isn’t just about carb-loading the night before; it’s about consistently fueling your body to ensure your glycogen stores are full.

Starting three days before the race, increase your intake of complex carbohydrates like whole grains, pasta, and rice to maximize glycogen stores. Balance this with protein and fat to avoid digestive issues. Hydration is also crucial—drink plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks while avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine. The day before, stick to familiar, balanced meals, especially for your final pre-race dinner, which should be carb-rich with moderate protein and minimal fat.

3. Rest and Sleep: Prioritizing Recovery

Your body needs time to repair muscle tissue from months of training, so aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. In the final days, especially the night before the race, anxiety might make sleep difficult. Prioritize sleep earlier in the week, and don’t worry if you don’t sleep well the night before—your body will still be ready. Avoid strenuous activities that could cause fatigue or injury; instead, opt for light stretching, yoga, or short walks to stay loose without adding stress.

Also read: Create a Training Plan to Run Your First Marathon

4. Mental Preparation: Getting in the Right Headspace

Mental preparation is as crucial as physical training. Visualize the race, imagining yourself starting strong, maintaining pace, and finishing with determination. This can help calm nerves and boost confidence.

Review your race plan, including pacing, fueling, and goals. A clear plan reduces anxiety and keeps you focused, but stay flexible—marathons are unpredictable, and adapting to challenges is essential for success.

5. Logistics: Planning for a Smooth Race Day

Proper planning can help eliminate unnecessary stress. Start by reviewing all race logistics, including packet pickup, transportation to the start line, and any race-specific rules or guidelines. Many races offer an expo where you can pick up your bib number, race shirt, and other materials a day or two before the event. Take advantage of this to avoid any last-minute rush.

On the day before the marathon, lay out everything you’ll need. This includes your running clothes, shoes, socks, race bib, gels or energy chews, hydration pack or bottle, and any other gear you plan to use. Make sure your race outfit is something you’ve worn before during long runs to avoid chafing or discomfort. Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly—dress in layers if it’s expected to be cold, and don’t forget sunscreen if it’s going to be sunny.

6. The Day Before the Marathon

The day before the marathon is all about staying calm and sticking to your routine. After final preparations, focus on relaxing. Avoid walking or standing too much—save your energy for race day.

Have your final pre-race meal at your usual dinner time, sticking to familiar foods that you know sit well with your stomach. After dinner, take some time to unwind and go over your race plan one last time. Set multiple alarms to ensure you wake up on time, and then do your best to get a good night’s sleep.

Also read: How Much Training Does It Take to Run a Marathon?

In summary, structuring your routine leading up to a marathon involves a careful balance of tapering your physical activity, fueling your body with the right nutrition, prioritizing rest and recovery, preparing mentally, and organizing all logistical aspects of race day. By following these guidelines you’ll set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable marathon experience. Remember, the hard work is already done; now it’s about fine-tuning your preparation to ensure you cross the finish line feeling strong and proud.