Marathon Race Week Plus Two - Marathon Recovery Week 2

You’re probably starting to feel a bit better this week. Your soreness is nearly gone but you’re most likely still feeling some lingering fatigue and stiffness. Avoid the temptation to return to you normal training pattern this week. You still need some more recovery time.

Many running experts recommend one day of rest for each mile that you race. If you follow that advice you will be taking off nearly four weeks. I don’t think that much recovery time is necessary in most cases. Let’s face it - if we took off 4 full weeks we would go stir crazy. Runners need their running fix.

Instead of taking 4 weeks off I suggest using a graduated recovery schedule in which you slowly return to your normal training pattern. This gradual return to training started last week and will continue for one more week. Listen to your body. If you feel you need more recovery time - take it. It’s important to let your damaged muscles heal.

Strength Training Recovery

Beginning Runner Level

Recreational Level

Competitive Level

Elite Level

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