Marathon Training: Consider A Dress Rehearsal

It may give you a much-needed shot of confidence.

If opera singers can do it, a dress rehearsal that is, why can’t marathoners?

The Globe and Mail recently asked that very question. Writer Nicole Stevenson suggests those training for a marathon should think about doing the 26.2 miles before the goal race. “It’ll give you a chance to test your wheels, your nerves and your ego before the big day,” she writes. “Besides these practicalities, races are also lots of fun”

If the “tester” race goes well, you may also get a shot of confidence heading into the goal marathon.

Stevenson goes on to suggest that dress rehearsals take place about three weeks before the marathon in order to give you enough time to taper properly.

She also recommends that not all runners try for the full 26.2 miles, but consider running just the half with a strong finishing 5K kick at marathon pace. Stevenson notes that runners should do a half marathon all-out. “It will impede your performance for the full [distance],” she writes. “You’ve got to keep your eye on the big prize.”

For More: Globe and Mail