RaceReady News

Question: Mary, I am less than 1 week away from running my first long distance race and yesterday I injured what I believe is my left achilles tendon. I stopped immediately and starting icing. I am very disappointed and do not want to miss this race but I also don't want to make the injury worse. It is now 24 hours later and although I walk without a limp I can feel the tendon grab. Other than not running do you have any advise? Thanks, Charlie

Answer: Hello Charlie:

I am sory to hear about your achilles injury. You mention that you are less than a week away from a "long distance" race, but didn't mention the distance. I know it is all relative, but I would be cautious of entering a race with an injured achilles. I advise the standard RICE treatment for your injury:
R- Rest - Don't run on it until it is noticably better
I - Ice - Ice twice a day
C - Compression - perhaps you can wrap it with an ace bandage
E - Elevation - try to keep it elevated

I know it probably isn't much consolation, but keep in mind if you can not do this particular race, there should be plenty of other opportunities to race. I've noticed that there are an ever increasing number of races on the race calendar these days. Hopefully, though, you will be better for this week's race and can participate in it. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. Mary

Posted by mary button at 2:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Question: Hey Mary,

I'm new to running and a heavy sweater. I've done a half marathon and have a full scheduled in Feb. Normally, I do most of my running on the treadmill just given the amount that I sweat and just for my joints sake as well as it's easier for me.
But, my question is regarding clothing for the marathon. I sweat like crazy! Not a dry place on me after a long run. I ring out my clothes and copious amounts come out. But, I know it will be cold for this race and am wondering what kind of wear I should be getting for colder weather. I just don't know which of your products would be best for me. I live in Atlanta and the marathon is in Pensacola FL.

Thanks for your help, Adam

Answer: Adam, I would recommend a long sleeve CoolMax shirt. We at RaceReady offer a great shirt that is ideal for people that sweat a lot. It is our style #4000, and is our original long sleeve shirt which we have been making for 12 years now. It is more of an "open" mesh than most CoolMax that is currently available in the market these days. The drawback is that it DOES get pilled. However, it is very breathable and you can also regulate your temperature by easily rolling up the sleeves if you get too hot. I hope you have a great marathon! Mary

Posted by mary button at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Question: I just finished my first marathon last week and want to run another in the spring 08.
I am taking a week off, but what should I do between now and when I start official training 18 wks prior to my marathon? Should I work back up to my pre-marathon weekly mileage (40-ish) or go lower/higher?
From, Kat

Answer: In the years when I was running marathons, I often did 2 or 3 marathons each year. My recovery from the marathon was basically a taper in reverse. I would gradually reduce my mileage the month BEFORE my marathon race, and then I would gradually increase my mileage the month AFTER my marathon race. I would also take it "easy" for awhile following my marathon, and not concentrate on any serious speed work. Usually by 6 weeks after the marathon I felt back to normal and was able to run my usual training weekly mileage. I hope this helps you. Mary

Posted by mary button at 2:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)