Week 5 of Marathon Training
This was one of those weeks that just clicks—the kind that energizes you mentally during marathon training and reminds you why you love the process. Every run felt great and my mindset felt lighter. I even found myself looking forward to the workouts instead of dreading the Florida summer heat.
I added in two solid strength training sessions and made time for a yoga flow. The extra mobility and strength work paid off in my running—my long run this week was one of the best of this training cycle so far. It also helped that my running partner joined me! Having someone run with you, at least for me, helps SO much. I finished with that “I could keep going” feeling every runner loves.
On Saturday I ran the last of the Watermelon Series 5k. I treated it like a hard workout (and added on another 4+ miles), but the race atmosphere always brings out a little extra push.
If you’ve ever trained through the summer, you know—it’s not all sunshine and roses (well, it’s a lot of sunshine… and sweat). The heat can be relentless, the humidity feels like running through soup, and schedules get crazy with travel, kids’ activities, and vacations. It’s easy to let those factors chip away at your motivation.
That’s why this week was so refreshing. It was a reminder that the work we put in now, even on the hottest days, is the foundation for those crisp, cool fall races. When October rolls around and I’m standing on the start line of my marathon, I’ll know these sweaty miles and strength sessions paved the way.
So here’s to the good training weeks—the ones that remind us that even in the thick of summer, the joy of running can shine through.
3 Tips for Staying Motivated in Hot-Weather Marathon Training
Mix It Up – Don’t be afraid to swap an easy run for a cross-training day, strength session, or yoga flow. It can help prevent burnout and keep your body feeling balanced.
Embrace Early Mornings (or Late Evenings) – Avoid the peak heat by running at sunrise or after the sun starts to set. It’s amazing how much difference a few degrees can make.
Remember the Payoff – Keep your fall race in mind. Every sticky, sweaty mile you log now will make you stronger and faster when cooler temps arrive.
This week’s schedule:
Monday - 3 miles - faster pace
Tuesday - yoga (mobility, stretching and strength) & 3 miles with run club
Wednesday - 12 miles - easy pace
Thursday - bicep, tricep and back strength, mobility and stretching
Friday - 3 miles & shoulders, chest strength
Saturday - 8 miles
Sunday - lower body strength