Marathon Training Block: Mental Approach for a PR Attempt

[@johnmcguire8347]

Now that I am over 50 and the body is less resilient, my mental approach starts and ends with patience and keeping the long view. Staying healthy is my number one goal and building fitness slowly with patience keeps me healthy. Whenever I get impatient and try rush things, injury ensues. Looking toward to seeing Seth back on the roads/trails.

[@ericpetersen8645]

Right there with you brother.

[@RunningOtaku]

I second that! (even though I’m only 49) 😀

[@renaatcasier9011]

thanks SJD! you're right, when in training for races or prep in general it really helps to set goals 'to the forward you' and meaning you would like to give your (sportive) you. Not only will this kick-start fitness, it definitely is a ticket for self obligation to stick to your plans.

[@BirdfluDracula]

QD: I start training blocks with three words that I carry with me and reach back to when I’m struggling: strong, focused, fast. I also prepare mentally by getting my goals down on paper. Last marathon I raced I really lost sight of my “why” and the training turned into a spiral of data obsession and negativity that ultimately doomed me at the starting line. This time I’m going back to basics, being kind to myself, and trying to keep my love of running at the front of my mind.

[@JC-rn5tk]

Pick a goal race, then work backward to plan the training. The hardest part for me mentally, is getting through the inevitable aches and pains that come along with the training, understanding the difference between pain and true injury. Great vlog, thanks!

[@marlinweekley51]

Laughter helps - I’ll start yelling and laughing “Iam in the pain cave! Iam in the pain cave!” Around mile 60-70. Then those around start laughing and yelling / serious fun 😂🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️

[@dewknow1315]

I swear like a sailor when I am in the pain cave.

[@davidbooher5918]

Your race is just the victory lap for all your training.

[@topinjs]

You just summarised my running year of 2018. Worked almost a whole year from a really unsuccessful race to a PB. Sacrificed a lot - basically it was just work, train, eat, sleep, recover, repeat. My mantra while doing all the tough workouts was "Suffer Well". I firmly believe that only those that are willing to suffer and embrace it, can succeed in long distance running. Every time I couldn't get myself out for a workout, I just thought that if I don't succeed, then I will be able to look back on this day and say - this is why I failed. So I got up and did it in spite.

[@ericpetersen8645]

Preach!

[@Abes523]

QD: Don't take myself too seriously, remember where I came from and above all else have fun. At this point in my life running is purely for enjoyment (and overall health too) so if I begin to stress or put too much pressure on myself to perform then running loses it's purpose for me. Of course I want to be better than I was yesterday, but not to the point of stress and frustration.

[@jameschaves5723]

Jason Aberly beautifully spoken

[@LuisBecerra79]

We are here for you Seth, running or no running. We can learn anything everyday, not just running. You get healthy the best possible, we can see the better picture of that. Can't wait to see the remodel Shoedio.

[@DWNY358]

Excellent post, Seth! QD: I'm very goal oriented and very much a data geek two things that really help me in training. I track my runs and make comparisons to previous training blocks to ensure I'm making progress toward my marathon goal. So training is almost like a game to me, and I try to enjoy it, even when things get hard. And I feel pride when making progress. Also, doing key training runs with a group makes a huge difference. Not only does that keep me accountable, as Seth mentions, but it also makes it more bearable and more fun. I could never imagine doing, say, "Canova K's" on my own. And I now look forward to group long runs. On a related note, I've recently started using the Strava "Fitness & Freshness" metrics to see how I'm progressing in terms of fitness. I'm sure the absolute numbers are not that meaningful (I'm at "71" fitness score right now, whatever that means) but rather it's the trendlines that really matter. What do others think about this Strava feature? (it's in the premium version)

[@JIMZILA]

I had a set back 2 months ago and this video helped me out a lot. It helped me realize I can salvage my race with a month and a half left. I was feeling down. The vid reminded me of my "why",Thanks Seth!

[@jethinabox]

thanks for all the advice, ive been enjoying mulling it all over. especially 'the why'.

[@dhiradas108]

QOD: Excitement. I enjoy the training as much or even more than the actual race. The challenge is always exhilarating. Let's see what we can do. I will NEVER QUIT!

[@df540148]

My approach leading up to Western States in June is I gotta frigging work for this. I spent 4 years trying to get in via the lottery so this isn't time to coast it in to race day. I want to train my butt off and plan to do it. Mentally, it just means I have to stick with it: no more random rest days cause I don't feel like running, putting in the harder efforts and trying to stay on top of my diet and sleep. It's going to be hard but I'm ready to do this!

[@jamesotto7884]

This Vlog was so good- Relevent to all runners of all abilities! I always feel nervous when looking at runners before a race, I feel intimidated by all the iron man tattoos! I use them to my advantage during the run (chasing em' down) and feel so confident in my fitness. I thrive from a calm breathing technique when you hear others around you in 1:1 breathing. Finally when I am struggling to maintain a pace my mind tells me I need to change the pace. At this point I actually increase the pace as opposed to decrease the pace as the psychological effect of reducing the pace is almost like "giving up"... it gives is an excuse to quit.. and that's where the tears come (but we love it)! I know this wasnt qotd but felt some of the points in this Vlog rang so true so felt like sharing

[@kenjilota2510]

I hit the notification bell... I'm at the point in my training wherein the long run is a chore -- I don't enjoy running more than 2 hrs. Seeing this vlog makes me wanna run. Thanks Seth!

[@danielgomezjr.828]

I felt like that when I did my 20 mile run over the weekend. I really didn’t want to go but when I was out there I had the best time ever. just remember how good you’ll feel knowing how far youve come and each long runs impact on your marathon race experience

[@LiamNoir]

I've had 3 days rest after my last (trail) marathon, which was my 10th marathon event completed. Legs are recovered and back to training for the next one tomorrow. My last 3 marathons I've run from reduced fitness levels from my best effort. This next one is 4 months away, so I can definitely build on some good fitness and do one of my best performances. Not fastest, as the conditions and hills won't allow for it, but it's about the experience - running strong in new places. I also like the challenge of trying to perfectly balance my training between hill strength, speed work, tempo runs, easy mileage, etc. A good strategy will help me compete well. For now at least, each new marathon is a new experience with something else to offer, so I keep racing the distance.

[@ErnieOne]

Thumbs up forever! 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@johnysikiera2984]

We are so lucky that we got you Seth I am not sure I write it again but I am so happy that I can listening your advice. Sound difficult what you said but if we all love that sport and we want hit our goals we have to listening what you said. Thanks for everything Seth.

[@JavierISampedroTNF]

With less one month for my marathon, things are getting more real. The training has been going so far so good, but with some struggles but overall feeling confident, just a bit unsure about my endurance as I haven´t run further than 25km but this weekend long run with 30km will be a good test to see how I can maintain. When starts to hurt a bit because of sore, maybe from previous day workout, I always remind myself to concentrate in my stride, the breathing and knowing I will get closer to my finishing point or when I want to finish within a certain time. Also when you wake up in the morning, and dont feel like to workout but just need to have the attitude to go for it. Once you are out there, is totally worth it. Trying to be confident on race day to apply what I have learned these past few months, be patient with my pace and enjoy the whole process.

[@christownsend5335]

Training for a half marathon in March, so to see where I am and understand what work and effort I need to do, I put in for a half marathon this weekend! - I won’t go mad, just target a time I should be able to achieve and then evaluate how it goes and take it from there.... so all on feel I guess

[@brigiddemoor4206]

I've loved all of your blogs and I think they are all exciting, enjoyable, and well done! Thank you!

[@michaelormondrobinson]

Brigid DeMoor ❤️

[@hberlin836]

Really good content, I watched it twice back to back and literally took notes

[@fatmel_8214]

Well, i wanted to go out for a slow jog.. i see this vlog and made a total switch to a fast trail run... Fantastic video! Thank you, greetings from Belgium! 🙋🏽‍♂️🇧🇪

[@nathanwest5881]

15 weeks out from my first significant race, IndyMini half, and this is exactly why I needed. Good vid, Seth. Keep it up

[@Tybell350]

Nathan West the IndyMini half is my first significant one as well! Time to get after it!

[@FreedomOfX]

Enjoyed this vlog. Nice to see your excitement build up. Hope all goes/went well with your first run back!

[@jennifertrautman8018]

Breathing. I practice yoga meditation and deep breathing. It helps me to breathe right and stay focused

[@aj-runner]

Hello Seth. As you previously stated, have a passion for the pain. 👍

[@sammacneil7790]

Love the videos buddy keep it up! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@yankaitan8648]

this video is going so beneficial, im glad i saw this

[@poliuuuc]

Seth! I hope you saw what happened in Valencia Spain on Sunday. Julien wanders from Geneva smashed his own European 10km record finishing 3 after new world record. Waow. This young guy will break more records

[@jonh1958]

Thanks Seth, got my next Half Marathon in 5 weeks. Training has felt like a real chore and the mental aspect is the thing that, I think, has been holding me back. Going to hit that reset button and start afresh tomorrow.

[@michellecam5026]

Get it done !!! That's what I say to myself:)

[@randyrj9170]

love the videos! thanks for helping me.. getting ready for my first 10k the boulder boulder

[@lynneday5904]

Hi Seth - Bummed I won't be there for PPM. Running LT100. My issue is getting comfortable with the pain. And you can't learn to run uphill by walking all the hills. Great post today! Thank you!!

[@Josh_Stringer]

All of these are great! Love the "fasting" aspect of training. There are health benefits, too, but I think the reminder to remain focused is the big bonus (and the general aim of fasting, right?). But, Ironclad Training Habits is THE hardest part for me. Really inspiring and thought provoking for you to mention this.

[@stefanwagner1841]

QOD: I like to understand how this marathon effects my long term goals. Im racing my first 100 miler in May and know that in my life I'm going to complete one. Love the fitness does not lie. Have good one Seth!

[@kimwrinkle100]

Awesome tips, Seth! Thank you! QD: When I plan a race, I start with the race and plan backward. Where do I need to be (physically and mentally) on race day and how do I get there? Work backwards from the race to the taper to the longest training session to the highest volume to the buildup to the first workout. Planning in this fashion assures I have plenty of time to prepare and prevents any dangerous “crash training” or rushing to be fit in time.

[@jakebencentcornito838]

Thank you seth, im realy having a hard time this week coz of my health.

[@michaelkammeyer]

I think this is something I need to work on. I tend to start my training blocks very slowly, and my habits aren't ironclad. Hopefully for my next block I can set the tone early.

[@miler2237]

I do the same. Why do I want to run that race? Focus, Prepare, and have fun doing.

[@zakwilliams3201]

Heyyy the Man is running!! Good to see Seth.

[@lidasheppard4968]

Thank you for the tricks ... I have my why 😁

[@trbeyond]

QD: my focus is actually on being patient. From consistent patience, true progress is realized

[@martinstigmar6151]

Really good one Seth , thank you. Preparing for Hamburg and for me, this kind of inspiration is gold 👍👍

[@dillonwademan3243]

QOD: I like to set a goal pace for myself. I go so far as to orient my training around that pace. It's exhilarating... daily training helps gauge where I'm at ito hitting that target.

[@lukassvendsen8265]

QD: Even though I've only run two marathons, my mental approach is that I always try to remember that crazy feeling in the minute after crossing the finish line. That is enough to push me for 16-20 weeks :-) Butter it!

[@netrapelapkar9267]

Superb block..I just need that mind.. Mentally prepared for solo run to feel the pain..

[@steveilg6134]

Awes(om)e vLog, SJD! in yoga, there is a term, "Tapasaya" which can be translated as, "to straighten by fire," and it involves a lot of what you spoke of in terms of picking a sacrifice. love it. QD: in my first book, THE OUTDOOR ATHLETE (1985), i wrote; "The most powerful training element that any athlete brings to any Start Line is Confidence borne from training." that still rings true for my approach these years. placed 10 overall in a 20k Free against a very fast, strong (and much younger!) field than yesterday won my AG in a Rando Race up and down our local ski mountain. Confidence matters! THANK YOU and can't wait to see the new Shoe-dio!!! you da best! head bowed,

[@lajournsantanadolphin4895]

That intro nearly scared me to death with you're running knee injury🦵

[@fieldwalker]

What are your current road distance shoes? Say, 20K plus days? A current video showing your fave interval, tempo and LSD shoes would be great. Cheers. I went Nike crazy at Christmas this year, but usually mix it up between Saucony, Nike and Hoka.

[@MonicaJeannae]

QoD: My mental approach is to plan the training then trust the process. Even though I may not feel like I'm capable of what my training is working towards, to just keep going and in the end it'll probably get me there.

[@nateskodi6478]

This was awesome! Thank you!

[@baltsu]

QD: I need to be fit enough to start the marathon training blog. Recently I realized that I am kind of ready. Last week I reduced the volume, ran only 115K because I wanted to not push too hard during the last 14 days before the real training starts. Hence, this week will also be relatively easy but I will spend some time thinking about that training blog. I am writing the plan on Tuesday or Wednesday and the training blog will start on Monday. I have the confidence already because training has gone well. Now I am ready to go with full motivation and optimism. I know that if I remained healthy, I can reach my goals. I don't need to make any sacrifices. 2.5 years ago I read the book called Core written by Aki Hintsa, the ex-doctor (he passed away a couple of years ago) of Haile Gebrselassie and many formula one drivers like Lewis Hamilton. I made changes in my life after reading that book. According to him sustainable high performance is built on a balanced life. He asks 3 questions in the book. Do you know who you are, do you know what you want and do you control your life. These questions are very important for a happy life. Once those are clear, then it is easy to live a balanced life. The Protestant ethic and ascetic lifestyle are not for me because they basically suggest that one should be ashamed of having fun or enjoying life. It was great to notice when I read that book that I do not have to live like a monk and still be able to perform at a high level in the corporate world and to be able to reach my running goals. Most books are telling the complete opposite story. They talk about sacrifices all the time like priests do (we do not go to church here but I think they are doing that) and then comes this guy who has coached best-performing people in the world and tells that balanced life is okay and prevents burnout. That is amazing. So I really like to run a lot and I really like to work a lot and I really like to drink good beer and wine and eat amazing food but I never think that I have to make sacrifices or give up anything. I do not have time to travel or play golf or to have a family but it is not a sacrifice as such because I do things that I really like to do. If I loved golf more than running, then my golf bag would not have been sitting in a closet for years. Once we realize that we have made or are allowed to make choices based on who we are, we also realize that things that we do not do or do not have, are not really something that we like a lot. I am doing what I really want to do and I can reach my goals by having a balanced life how he advises in his book. I like to build a life from high-quality ingredients and food and drinks are just examples. When I studied economics we were talking a lot about opportunity costs and that is something that I keep in mind when I evaluate things. I would never give up good food, wine or beer and eat some trash or pills or powder like it is kind of fashionable to do nowadays because the opportunity cost is too high and results probably worse. I do not need to go to see a doctor for blood tests because a well-balanced diet gives everything including the B12 and iron. Of course I pay attention to food - especially because I have spent so much time in some Mediterranean countries where they have healthy diets. So I like well made healthy pastas and pizzas and stuff that runners need for carbos but honestly, I like variety in food including meat and fish but also salads and vegetarian dishes. Runners have an advantage compared to other people because the needed calory amount is so huge that we can enjoy our lives in ways that regular people cannot and it is great. Of course a marathon training blog requires a lot of time and makes runners very tired but it is the name of the game. Similarly sometimes one has to work hard without any sleep or rest because of a deadline. That is just how things go and I am sure that most runners would be happier or more satisfied in their lives once they realize that being tired does not mean that a sacrifice was made. They get to do what they love to do and when it is done every day according to plan, then eventually it will pay off. As Hintsa sai:d know who you are, know what you want and make sure that you can control your own life. Everybody can have a different roadmap to success and that is absolutely amazing.

[@miks1063]

I can't run for 4 days and then I will be not sick can't wait!

[@mandyfornaski7611]

Mitget Multenes Lv Yay!!

[@Josh_Stringer]

Could you do a Vlog on "Training Blocks" in general? How long should a block last? How do you structure depending on race?

[@8strings]

Hi Seth, if you are keen to avoid the alcohol (and I totally understand, with me not 'drinking' at all), why not try alcohol free beer. As you might have noticed at the finish line of the Amsterdam Marathon (at least that is what is happening in Berlin), there would have been lots and lots of alcohol free beer served to everyone in the recovery area. Alcohol free beer in fact is promoted as a fantastic alternative to artificially coloured and flavoured sports drinks, as it relaxes and replenishes and makes you sleep better as well. As I can't add links to this comment, just do your own research on 'Warsteiner' and 'Holsten' beers in particular. I have no connections with either of these brewers. There are also some really nice Californian alcohol free red wines around. I am writing these lines from Sydney, having to take a few rather lengthy brakes due to the bush fire induced air pollution.

[@baltsu]

non-alcoholic beer is better than sports drinks. It is isotonic. Many athletes who have won Olympic medals drink that. There have been researches made about that subject and top athletes consume a lot of that stuff in big events like Olympics. When someone asked about recovery drinks in the DeMoor Global Running group, I linked an article written about this topic. It is much better to drink low alcohol or alcohol-free beer than drinking tea.

[@JoshSzink]

For pain, the thing I always tell myself is that if it doesn’t hurt then I’m not running at my best and I need to go faster

[@DMcC123]

Seth, if you need a marathon later in May, check out runottawa.ca. Marathon in Canada’s capital... biggest race weekend in the country and a great course.

[@colloq59]

0:02 sprinting on concrete

[@wesferraiuolo7366]

Has anyone else check Strava about 50 million times today?

[@jamiec6684]

QD: I really focus on what’s in front of me at the time. Is my life busy? How am I feeling mentally? What is my fitness levels currently? I feel like you need to acknowledge everything around you to start off with so you can become aware and then really pinpoint your focus into your training towards that competition. Acknowledging that life doesn’t always go to plan but training doesn’t have to be affected by any of that!

[@QronoZ713]

Seth, I think you should try out Lidingöloppet. It's a 30 km terrain race in Sweden (about 500 m of height gain), the biggest terrain race in the world as far as I'm aware. I think about 50 k runners run it every year. I think it would fit you very nicely as a runner! If you're interested, I can probably help with getting you a living space and a ticket to start ;)

[@QronoZ713]

"Since 1982, Lidingöloppet is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest cross-country race in the world with approximately 60,000 participants every year. Along with Vasaloppet/Engelbrektsloppet, Vätternrundan and Vansbrosimningen, TCS Lidingöloppet is part of the Swedish classic circuit.!

[@briandecker8290]

Do a Canadian marathon! Calgary or Banff maybe?

[@briandecker8290]

Calgary is in May just saying

[@DK-in1qw]

Hi. What vest do you recommend? Thanks

[@williamdowling7718]

What does it mean if the answer to "why do you run/train/race?" is "for the suffering."?? Perhaps I'm a weirdo, but the suffering is a larger aspect of my end goal than fitness, health, etc.

[@rob5522]

Hey guys, I was wondering if you knew where I could buy some XS/S arm sleeves? I don’t understand why I can’t find any. You’d figure they would make that size for lean people like us that run tons of miles lol

[@aerox45]

I´m giving up Sugar (Cookies, Ice cream and Candy) to run a marathon in March i Barcelona.

[@mrsmendy3845]

My why is, why not? Can I do it? And ones I ran the distance, can I get faster? I don't need to meet up with people, it's all me, I don't put in the work = I might fail. And the person who would be disappointed would be me.

[@trainwellracewell]

Check out the book “Sleep Smarter” by Shawn Stevenson. Packed with practical things you can do to improve sleep

[@williamchoi808]

Helping with sleep: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

[@Deadbuck73]

12th! Give me a contract and call me Brady!

[@cadenphilips2328]

so are you still running houston or did you decide not to?

[@stevejodoin9937]

Caden Philips not running it.

[@fritzcarlson5302]

Do you remember this jacket?

[@vineyardpaul]

Your giving up wine? Nooooooooooo Noooooooooooooooo Oh dear, noooooooooooooooooo

[@michaelormondrobinson]

Vineyard Paul Noooooooooooooo!

[@ramonheftiiii569]

😀❤👍

[@stuartkingma7351]

Fourth!! Haha

[@julienb.4309]

first ?

[@woody369]

First

[@woody369]

I don't comment very often, but when I happen to open KZbin and see the video just uploaded I gotta try for a 'first'

[@yonasoncohen36]

First

[@dukebb2274]

First