As I dive deeper into my marathon training and approach my wedding anniversary, it’s impossible not to reflect on how much has changed; both in my running journey and my life with Katie. This year marks a special milestone for us: our 10-year wedding anniversary. It feels fitting that this trip to London, all about celebrating our decade of love, culminates with running one of the world’s most iconic races.
My fitness journey began in 2018. I was overweight and living a sedentary lifestyle. That year, I reached a breaking point. I wanted to be healthier, not just for myself, but for my family. In the process, I lost 70 pounds and discovered running, a passion that has become a cornerstone of my life. Now, as I lace up each day in preparation for this marathon, it feels like the perfect icing on the cake; celebrating not just our marriage, but the strength and resilience we’ve built together over the years.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to mention the NSPCC UK and the incredible work they do for children’s lives. Their mission to protect children from abuse and neglect, while supporting families in need, is something I truly believe in. As race day draws closer, knowing that I’m raising money for such an important cause keeps me pushing through the hard miles, especially when fatigue starts to take over. Each step becomes more than just a personal achievement; it’s a way to make a real, lasting impact on the lives of children and families who need help the most. You can help support my journey to raise money for the NSPCC here.
THE TRAINING PLAN
I’ve really enjoyed using the Runna app throughout this training block. The AI functionality, which adapts the plan based on my runs, has kept me on track, ensuring the plan evolves with my progress. The integration with my Suunto watch has had its share of challenges, though I’m not always sure if the issue lies with the app or the watch itself. Despite that, the workouts have been tough yet effective, pushing me in all the right ways. Each session builds my strength and endurance to feel confident and prepared on race day.
THE GEAR
The Suunto Race has been solid overall, though, as I mentioned before, the integration with the Runna app has had some hiccups. Despite that, the watch itself has been light and comfortable with a solid battery life. I’ve had a few HR issues that required a restart here and there, but nothing too disruptive. I’m really enjoying the AMOLED screen; it’s clear and easy to read, even on the go during my runs.
I gave the Deuter Shortrail II a shot on a long run, and while it fits well on the small of my back and is comfortable, I found the bounce from a full water bottle to be a bit much. I think it’d work better for trail runs where pace is slower and steps are more deliberate, but for hard road runs, it wasn’t the best fit for me.
An underrated aspect of marathon prep is definitely gut training. Carbs Fuel has been great for delivering the carbs I need, though my stomach’s still adjusting. The lack of strong flavor actually helps on the longer run; it’s easy to get down when you’re eating for hours.
THE SHOES
I had to retire the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 and the Saucony Endorphin Speed after hitting the 150-mile mark on each, but they definitely served me well during their time in the rotation. Lately, the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 has been my go-to for easy runs to start the week. For my recovery runs, I’ve been reaching for the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2, which offers just the right amount of guidance without being overbearing. The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 continues to be a favorite for tempo and interval days, with its versatility allowing me to really push the pace when needed. Most recently, I’ve added the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 to the rotation for long runs, and it’s been a game-changer. It’s quickly become my favorite shoe of the year thus far and might even be my race day shoe for London. It’s just that good.
THE RUNS
Week 6:
Another solid week in the books with 34.5 miles. Tuesday started with 7 easy miles in the Diadora Nucleo 2. Wednesday brought 400s into 200s in the Hoka Mach 6, and as much as I despise speed work, these felt surprisingly good. Thursday was back to easy miles, logging 7 in the Topo Athletic Aura, which continues to prove itself as a tank of a trainer.
Friday’s 6.5-mile tempo in the Asics Novablast 5 reminded me why tempo runs are my least favorite, but the shoe’s cushioning kept things comfortable even when my legs wanted to quit. Wrapped up the week with a long run in the Brooks Glycerin Max; reliable as always for eating up miles.
Week 7:
This cutback week couldn’t have come at a better time. Right in the middle of a record-breaking snow event for the area. Not exactly ideal running conditions, but at least I wasn’t dodging ice on peak mileage.
Tuesday kicked off with 7 easy miles in the Brooks Caldera 7, because if I was going to trudge through snow and slush, I might as well have some grip. Wednesday was a short and sweet 4.5 miles in the Diadora Nucleo 2, which felt smooth despite the freezing temps.
Friday brought a 5K time trial in the Asics Novablast 5, totaling 5 miles. Nothing like testing speed when your body just wants to hibernate. Wrapped up the week with an 8-mile long run in the Brooks Glycerin Max. Steady miles to close out a frigid but much-needed lighter week.
Week 8:
Was back to business after the previous week’s cutback. Tuesday started with 7.5 easy miles in the Mizuno Neo Zen. A soft, smooth ride and exactly what I needed to ease back in. Wednesday brought 200m repeats in the Asics Novablast 5 for a total of 8 miles.
Thursday was all about recovery with 7 easy miles in the Topo Athletic Aura. Friday’s 6.5-mile progression run in the Novablast 5 kept things spicy before Saturday’s long run: 15 miles total, with 8.5 at an 8:25 pace in the Mizuno Neo Zen. A solid week of miles, speed, and a little suffering.
Week 9:
Tuesday kicked off with 7.5 easy miles in the Topo Athletic Aura. Wednesday brought the dreaded tempo run: 2.5-mile repeats for a total of 8 miles in the Asics Novablast 5. Have I mentioned my disdain for tempo sessions?
Thursday’s 7-mile recovery run in the Diadora Nucleo 2 was wet, and cold, but I got it done! Friday ramped things back up with 600s into 200s for 8.2 miles in the Mizuno Neo Zen, which handled the speed well.
A sinus infection began Sunday, resulting in a 2-mile walk in the Saucony Triumph 22 rather than the planned 16 mile run.
Week 10:
Sinus infections are the worst. Tuesday’s planned 4-mile tempo turned into a 5-mile walk in the Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 5. Not quite the workout I had in mind, but glad to get outside and moving.
By Wednesday, I was back to running with 8 easy miles in the Topo Athletic Aura. Still feeling a bit off, but grateful to be moving at a faster pace. Thursday brought mile repeats for 8 miles in the Asics Novablast 5.
Friday’s 8-mile recovery run in the Brooks Glycerin Max helped shake out the fatigue, setting me up for Sunday’s 17-mile race practice long run. I put in 7.5 miles at marathon pace in the Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 5, and while not easy I feel a certain sense of confidence with them on foot.
WRAP UP
It’s clear that this training block has been about more than just miles and gear. It has been about reflecting on how far I’ve come, both as a runner and as a person. The journey so far has had its share of highs and lows, but with each mile, I feel stronger, more prepared, and even more connected to my purpose.
From the gear I’ve been using to the workouts pushing me further than I thought possible, everything’s coming together to set me up for a positive race day. This journey has been a reminder that every step is a step forward, not just in training, but in life. I’ll be back in five weeks to share more updates, and you can also catch daily check-ins from each run here.
