How to Prep for Revel Mt Charleston Marathon

[@john.maynard]

Revel puts on great races! But, if you’re not patient, they will chew you up and spit you out. I didn’t appreciate the effects of the downhill quad pounding in my first Revel, and basically was ground to a walk with 10k to go. Super humbling! On my second go, I basically cruised the first 18 miles, and then raced the final 8 miles. This is to say, run smart and run with patience. Those fast miles will come automatically (even at altitude), so don’t get carried away. As for training, I agree that you don’t need to race on a similar course. However, I would recommend getting in some hill repeats - including running downhill (for those eccentric contractions). Also, if you’re far out enough, strength training should also be considered.

[@allheartrc]

Really great advice! Thanks for putting this here!

[@mad8298]

Ditto on this.

[@mad8298]

Definitely agree with you MK on training for the pace you want to run. I ran Revel Big Bear and the altitude and elevation gains in that one early on really tax your VO2 max if you don't live and train at altitude. I did do downhill training, and hills in general, as a component of my training cycle though, but certainly didn't bother this close to the marathon and it wasn't too much. If you don't have some hills to practice your turnover on and to condition your quads, then consider quad isolation exercises. One last thing is that I would highly recommend that anyone running one of the Revel races watch the video briefings by Coach Paul Carmona, who has run all of the marathons multiple times. He does a great mile by mile break down with recommendations of when to cruise and when to push.

[@DennisTernet]

So true, gotta train differently for downhill marathon and be prepared to “trash yr quads” in that race

[@allheartrc]

Thanks for the tips marsha!

[@yutheman]

I’m liking the intro edit and music on this one ☝️

[@allheartrc]

Thanks thomas! Looking forward to adding a sub 3 hr pb graphic under your name!

[@stevenrein3118]

Just finished the 2024 and the coaches talk before the race was spot on. My group had down some serious downhill runs so my quads did well, but it killed my hips. Running it at a 7 feel was great advice and I was able to save enough time at the front end to save myself during the last 6-8 miles. Ended up with a 4:09:02 and BQ'd. I found that my regular pace in Atlanta with the hills took off a good 45 seconds a mile. I am real good at going downhills.

[@allheartrc]

Congratulations on your BQ Steven! All❤️~

[@mwhite202020]

The kids were so happy to see the video!! Thanks for the shoutout!!

[@allheartrc]

haha! awesome! tell them hi from coach mk for me!

[@DennisTernet]

Like those tunes!

[@allheartrc]

Thanks hyung. It took a while to sift through all the music

[@jharod2018]

love your video and always watching. You are a awesome... my idol. hopefully to see you on the road at Revel Mt. Charleston. Im Philippines 🇵🇭

[@allheartrc]

Thanks so much, but we will not be racing at mt Charleston. Sorry~~~

[@willbilson7210]

I think your advice is great ❤

[@allheartrc]

Thanks wil!!!!

[@stevenrein3118]

I heard that doing downhills do damage but repairs the quads, so they are stronger. Yes, it hurts a few days but feel stronger and better prepared. Also, did gym legs and core work with machine, weights and floor exercises.

[@TheUsualSuspekt]

Not looking to jump in tomorrow but hoping for this to be my BQ race. I have no idea how to train for this when I live in Florida or if I should run in super shoes.

[@allheartrc]

Train at the speed you plan to race at. And do repeats on an overpass to get some hill work in. Best of luck~~