Tag Archive for: 2020 3M Half Marathon

Make it to Your Morning Run with these 6 Tips

Get out the door for your morning run with this helpful advice

You hear that? That’s your alarm clock going off earlier than normal. Your schedule calls for an early morning run. Now the internal battle begins because your bed is so comfortable and you were really enjoying sleep. Every runner battles themselves in some way every morning. Use one or all six of these tips to make your morning run!

Runner gives two thumbs up during 2019 3M Half Marathon while listening to music. Runners can make their own playlist to help them get up in the morning for their morning run.

Make a playlist that you’ll give two thumbs up!

1. Plan a Scenic Route to Motivate You

One of the biggest perks of living in Austin is the abundance of scenic running spots. Plan your morning run to include some of the city’s most beautiful locations. Nothing gets you moving like the promise of a sunrise over Lady Bird Lake or the cool, shaded paths of the Barton Creek Greenbelt.

Pro Tip: Kickstart your morning with a loop around the Lady Bird Lake Trail. You’ll get to see rowers gliding across the water as the city wakes up, which will fuel your motivation. Plus, how can you say no to those postcard-worthy skyline views?

2. Run Fuel at a Local Coffee Shop

Plan to stop by one of Austin’s many runner-friendly coffee shops after your run for a little post-workout treat. Whether it’s a cold brew from Mozart’s Coffee Roasters or an iced matcha latte from Houndstooth Coffee, having a post-run ritual tied to a local favorite can help get you excited to lace up. You’ve earned it!

Pro Tip: Tell yourself, “If I get this run in, I’m stopping by Bennu Coffee for a lavender latte.” Boom! Motivation and reward all in one.

3. Join a Local Running Group

Austin has an awesome running community, and nothing helps you stick to your morning run schedule like knowing someone is counting on you. Groups like The Morning Jo’s, RAW Running, and the Rise & Run have regular meetups around the city, often in the early morning hours. Not only will you have someone to run with, but you’ll also be a part of Austin’s vibrant running scene. Accountability = consistency.

Pro Tip: Check out WeRunAustin.com to find run groups to fit your schedule. Some running groups meet at iconic spots like the Texas Capitol or Zilker Park. Make friends and explore the city’s best running routes together!

4. Set Everything Out the Night Before

Take the guesswork out of your morning by laying out your gear the night before. Shoes, socks, watch, and hydration—have it all ready to go. When your gear is staring you in the face, it’s a lot harder to justify staying in bed. Plus, you’ll save valuable time in the morning. You know what they say: “Don’t think, just run!”

Pro Tip: Put your phone with your alarm across the room, next to your running gear. Now you have to get up!

5. Pair Your Run with a Recovery Session at a Local Spot

Once your morning run is complete, treat yourself to some active recovery! Austin has plenty of great places to help you recover in style. Swing by Deep Eddy Pool for a post-run swim or stop by Black Swan Yoga for a quick restorative session. Knowing you have a relaxing recovery plan lined up can help push you out the door in the morning.

Pro Tip: If you’re running on the Shoal Creek Trail, plan a cool-down stretch on the beautiful lawns at Pease Park afterward. You’ll get to relax while soaking in some nature.

6. Set a Race-Day Goal to Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Whether you’re training for the Austin International Half Marathon or aiming for a personal best at a local 10K, keeping race day in mind is a powerful motivator. Austin’s race scene is electric, and nothing feels better than crossing the finish line knowing those early mornings paid off. Keep your registration confirmation or bib from a past race visible as a daily reminder of why you’re putting in the work.

Pro Tip: The Austin International Half Marathon is known for its amazing crowd support and lively atmosphere, so picture yourself running through downtown with the cheers of the city pushing you to the finish line. That’s something worth waking up for!

With Austin’s stunning running spots, cool local hangouts, and strong running community, there’s no reason you can’t conquer your morning run. Sure, the bed is comfy—but the feeling of a morning well spent on the trails is even better. Stick to these tips, and you’ll be cruising through those training miles and ready to dominate race day at the Austin International Half!

Let’s rise, run, and crush it together, Austin!

3M Half Marathon Expo Highlights You Don’t Want to Miss

These expo highlights showcase the must-visit booths

Hello, Running Enthusiasts! As we eagerly anticipate the 3M Half Marathon, don’t miss the action-packed 3M Half Marathon Expo & Packet Pick Up at the Palmer Event Center on the Friday and Saturday before the race. This is your golden opportunity to meet the official pacers, explore a wide range of exhibitors offering exclusive shopping experiences, and participate in fantastic giveaways and discounts.

Plus, keep an eye out for some special surprises that might just make your day! Join us for this pre-race celebration and gear up for an amazing event.

Image of the Post-it Wall from the 2019 3M Half Marathon expo covered in messages of support and inspiration. The Post-it Wall will be a 2020 expo highlight.

3M Post-it Lounge

Visit the ever-popular 3M Post-it Lounge and add your message to our giant post-it wall. Leave a message of inspiration for a loved one or all participants. Or just sit back and relax before you go another round about the expo. Kids can even join in on the fun with our photo booth.

Photo booths

There will be several fun photo opportunities set up throughout the expo including our GIF photo booth, a larger than life-size version of Blaze, course maps, and more. Visit them all!

A 3M Half Marathon Ambassador takes a photo of two runners and the oversized 2019 3M Half Marathon medal at the 2019 3M Half Marathon expo. Take your photo with a giant 2020 3M Half Marathon medal, one of the many 2020 expo highlights.

Don’t forget to tag us on social @3MHalfMarathon and #DownhilltoDowntown.

Austin Marathon

Visit the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon and chat with their Ambassadors about race day! Thinking about registering for the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, or KXAN Simple Health 5K? Register at their booth and take advantage of their expo deals. You can even walk away with some cool swag! Rumor has it they are giveaway away free entries as well!

2025 3M Half Marathon Booth

As you exit packet pick-up, make your first stop at our dazzling 2025 3M Half Marathon Booth! Get early registration for next year’s race at our Best Pricing of $79. This is your chance to shimmer and shine, getting a taste of the excitement that awaits in 2025. Don’t miss out on this fantastic deal.

Fleet Feet Austin

Visit our friends at Fleet Feet Austin and snag some gear to get you to the start line and beyond. They will have some Run Austin gear but it is limited so get there as soon as you can. They’ll also have hydration and nutrition from GU for your last-minute needs.

Twenty-Six Two Marathon Club

If this is your first half marathon or you’re chasing your 13.1-mile PR, visit these folks! Meet the runners who will pace you to the finish line! These pacers are veterans and know what they’re doing. Swing by their booth, chat about race day and get your last-minute questions answered.

EIGHT Beer

Runners, get ready to raise a toast to your upcoming triumph! Make sure to swing by the EIGHT Beer booth at the 3M Half Marathon Expo. This is more than just a sampling – it’s a sneak peek into your post-race celebration! Our friends at EIGHT Beer will also be at the finish line for all of our celebrations.

Ascension Seton CapTex Tri

Add a little variety to your running by trying out a triathlon! CapTex Tri is Austin’s only downtown triathlon and features 3 distances including the beginner-friendly Rookie Tri Distance. Or get your friends involved, make it a team effort, and sign for a relay. They have a mystery prize machine full of discounts.

Super Coffee

Before you hit the pavement, stop by the Super Coffee booth at the 3M Half Marathon Expo for a delicious energy boost. Their range of energizing coffees is the perfect pick-me-up, ensuring you’re charged and ready to conquer every mile!

Texas Drain Specialist 

Chat with Julian and his team while you make special cheer signs. As an official sponsor of 3M Half Marathon, Texas Drain Specialist is there for you on and off the course. They even have a team you can join that includes free group workouts!

SHRUNK 3D

Capture your biggest and sweetest moments with an exact 3D replica of you, your family loved ones, and pets! Stop by the Shrunk booth to get a 3D replica.

Kerrville Triathlon

TRI your luck and spin the slots at the Kerrville Triathlon Festival booth. This Texas destination triathlon is known for its two day festival complete with 7 different triathlon distances from the beginner Rookie Tri to the 70.3 half distance.

Visit these other booths

Evamor

Sandcastle Seasonings

Verb

Little Guys Movers

Card.io

Go For It Sports

Strong Atheltic

SPIbelt

Race Essentials

Smith Chiropractic

Lifespring

Cap10K

National Running Center

Pinnacle Eye Wear

HiDow

 

,

Optimal Nutrition Strategies: Pre-Race and On-Course Fueling at the 3M Half Marathon

Maximize Your Performance with GU’s Expert Nutrition Planning

Months of training lead up to your pursuit of a personal best at the 3M Half Marathon. To support your efforts, GU Energy Labs, the Official Energy Gel and Chew of the 3M Half Marathon, offers scientifically designed products to boost your energy levels when you need it most.

Revitalize at the GU Energy Zone at Mile 7

Be sure to visit the GU Energy Zone at Mile 7 for a burst of energy! Here, you’ll find GU gels and chews:

  • Strawberry Chews (with caffeine)
  • Lemon Sublime Gel (caffeine-free)
  • Chocolate Outrage Gel (with caffeine)
  • Salted Watermelon Gel (with caffeine)

Remember, your pre-race preparation is just as crucial as your race-day strategy. Let’s explore some tips to optimize your performance.

Fueling Tips Before Your Half Marathon

In the week leading up to the race, focus on hydrating and increasing your calorie intake, especially carbohydrates. Hydration is key – You can supplement your water intake with nuun hydration, available at all aid stations, to make sure you are getting the electrolytes your body needs to be sufficiently hydrated come race morning.

10 Low carb hit SvV | Voedingscentrum | FlickrThe Science of Carb-Loading

The Mayo Clinic recommends starting carb-loading a week before the event, increasing your carbohydrate intake to 8 to 12 grams per kilogram of body weight. When you combine carbohydrate loading and tapering your workouts, you can store more energy in your muscles which will give you more energy sources during your event.

Carbohydrate-Rich Foods to Consider:

  • One slice of bread
  • A 6-inch tortilla
  • 1/2 cup mashed potatoes or 1/2 medium baked potato or sweet potato
  • 1/3 cup rice
  • One small apple or two tangerines
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 3 cups green beans
  • 1 1/4 cup milk or yogurt

Image of GU Energy Labs' half marathon nutrition plan. GU is the Official Energy Gel and Chew of the 3M Half Marathon. Click on this image to download the nutrition plan that can help you perform your best on race day.On race morning, aim to eat 2-3 hours before starting to avoid a heavy stomach. If you oversleep, opt for a lighter meal with liquid or gel carbs.

On Course Fueling: Personalize Your Nutrition Plan

We understand that planning your race nutrition can be daunting, so we recommend utilizing the GU Half Marathon Nutrition Planner. This tool helps you customize your nutrition plan based on various factors like your body size, the race’s intensity, and personal preferences.

Here’s how to use GU’s Nutrition Planner

    1. Pick your goal finishing time and find out what your average pace will be
    2. Use the table to determine your total nutritional need for the event
    3. Mix and match your favorite products and flavors, then calculate your totals
    4. Make sure your plan meets your body’s demand for each nutritional element

 

As you count down the days to the 3M Half Marathon, remember that your nutrition is as vital as your training. By following these guidelines and tailoring them to your personal needs, you’ll step up to the starting line with confidence, knowing you’re well-prepared to tackle every mile. Whether it’s your first half marathon or you’re a seasoned pro aiming for a new record, the right nutrition strategy can make all the difference.

We’re thrilled to support you on this journey and can’t wait to cheer you on as you cross that finish line. Remember, the 3M Half Marathon isn’t just about reaching the finish line – it’s about the exhilarating experience, the personal achievements, and the story you’ll tell after conquering those 13.1 miles.

Here’s to a race filled with energy, strength, and unforgettable moments. See you at the finish line!

Fueling before and on course at 3M Half Marathon

Whether you’re an experienced runner or a first-timer taking on 13.1 miles, it’s important to fuel your body with the right nutrition both before and during your race. In this post, we’ll look at some of the best fueling options, so that come race day you can be sure that your energy levels will stay high and that you have all the nutrients necessary for a successful finish line ahead!

Following GU’s nutrition planner can help you perform your best

You train for months to chase your 13.1-mile PR at 3M Half Marathon. GU Energy Labs, the Official Energy Gel and Chew of 3M Half Marathon, is here to help you perform your best! Their products are scientifically proven to give you the energy you need.

Energy Zone: Located at Mile 7 GU will have an energy zone stocked with:

  • Gels and chews: Lemon Sublime, Salted Watermelon (Caffeine), Vanilla Bean (Caffeine), and Orange Energy Chews.

But it is not all about race day. What you do in the days leading up can also impact your performance on the course. Below we will provide some tips and information that you can do before the race.

Fueling Before Running a Half Marathon

During the week before you run a half marathon, you need to focus on both hydration and providing sufficient energy/fueling.  Your calorie intake will be higher than usual and you will increase your carb load. It is also important that you hydrate in the week leading up to race day. You can supplement your water intake with nuun hydration to make sure you are getting the electrolytes your body needs to be sufficiently hydrated come race morning.

When you combine carbohydrate loading and tapering your workouts, you can store more energy in your muscles which will give you more energy sources during your event.

The Mayo Clinic suggests that carb-loading begins one week before the event with another additional increase 1-3 days out. ” Increase your carbohydrate intake to about 8 to 12 grams of carbohydrate per kilogram of body weight. Cut back on foods higher in fat to compensate for the extra carbohydrate-rich foods. Also, scale back your training for three to four days before the event. The combination of eating more carbohydrates and tapering activity appears to boost muscle glycogen stores.

For most athletes, 5 to 7 grams of carbohydrate per kilogram of body weight daily is right for general training. (Note that 1 kilogram equals 2.2 pounds.) Endurance athletes may need up to 12 grams per kilogram.”10 Low carb hit SvV | Voedingscentrum | Flickr

To give you an idea of carb counts, these foods have 15 grams of carbohydrates:

  • One slice of bread
  • One 6-inch tortilla
  • 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 medium baked potato or sweet potato
  • 1/3 cup rice
  • One small apple
  • Two tangerines
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 3 cups green beans
  • 1 1/4 cup milk or yogurt

On race morning you will want to rise early so that you can eat at least 2-3 hours before your start time. This will allow you to digest and not have a heavy stomach. Oversleep? Don’t panic, go with a lighter meal with supplemented liquid or gel carbs.

On Course Fueling Advice & Half Marathon Nutrition Planner

Image of GU Energy Labs' half marathon nutrition plan. GU is the Official Energy Gel and Chew of the 3M Half Marathon. Click on this image to download the nutrition plan that can help you perform your best on race day.Here are some tips for making sure you’re giving your body what it needs so you perform your best on race day. Planning what to eat during a race can be overwhelming. With so many variables, it’s hard to determine what the “right” answer is for you. When deciding what to eat and drink, we think it’s helpful to break it down by looking at the nutrients your body needs.

A successful nutrition plan takes into account the number of calories your system can handle in an hour. It should also factor in your body’s need for electrolytes, amino acids, water, and protein. When thinking about your nutritional need for a race or training session, it’s important to remember that everyone is different. Every day is different. For example, body size, air temperature, activity type, intensity, and personal preference will affect your nutritional needs.

That’s why we recommend mixing and matching products to find out what works for you. For example, if you prefer to drink your calories, you can bottle up your fuel using ROCTANE Energy Drink. We developed a half marathon Nutrition Planner to help you dial in your plan for race day. We all know things can change on race day, but it helps to start with a plan! Download the Nutrition Planner and follow the steps below.

Here’s how to use our Nutrition Planner

  1. Pick your goal finishing time and find out what your average pace will be
  2. Use the table to determine your total nutritional need for the event
  3. Mix and match your favorite products and flavors, then calculate your totals
  4. Make sure your plan meets your body’s demand for each nutritional element

3M Half Marathon Enjoys Picture-Perfect Weather and Plenty of PRs

Thousands of participants, friends, and family celebrate plenty of PRs at the finish line festival in downtown Austin

Start time temperature in the mid-30s quickly gave way to a cloudless sky and slight tailwind at the 26th annual 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour on Sunday, January 19th. Nearly 7000 participants, the second most in event history, traveled to Austin from 47 states and 22 countries. They ran Austin’s streets on one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country. The unforgettable day was highlighted by plenty of PRs and the event’s first 3-time female champion. Everyone celebrated the day at the massive finish line festival that showcased live music, a beer garden, and local food trucks.

Jess Harper became the 3M Half Marathon female champ for the third year in a row. The 2020 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour provided plenty of PRs!

Jess Harper is the back-to-back-to-back 3M Half Marathon female champ!

“3M Half Marathon is my favorite race to start the year and shake off the holiday cobwebs,” said Austinite Jess Harper, 2020 3M Half Marathon female champ (1:13:41) and back-to-back-to-back (2018 – ‘20) female champ. “I love the race-day support from the running community and am ecstatic to win for the third consecutive year!”

Elites complete final Olympic Marathon Trials tune-up

Austinite David Fuentes (1:06:31) won the 2020 3M Half Marathon in his final tune-up before the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials. Ryan Normand of Pflugerville, Texas, finished in second place (1:08:23). Wrapping up the men’s podium with the third-place finish was Nicholas Sterghos of Boulder, Colorado (1:09:47). Phillippe Rolly of McLean, Virginia, was the male Master’s champion (1:10:33).

David Fuentes is the 2020 3M Half Marathon champ. The 2020 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour provided plenty of PRs!

Fuentes cruises to victory in his final tune-up before the Olympic Marathon Trials.

“The goal of today was to feel confident, to feel in control, and to make this a great dress rehearsal for the Olympic Marathon Trials (Feb. 29th),” said Fuentes, who is also a 3-time Austin Half Marathon champ (2010, ‘11, ‘15). “I love racing in Austin because I love racing in my city and winning is very important. I’m proud of today’s victory!”

Harper (1:13:41) was the female champion for the third time in as many years. Bolivia’s Tania Chavez Moser, (1:14:32) and Elizabeth Northern of Fort Worth, Texas, (1:15:42) finished second and third respectively. Austin’s Michelle Cleveland (1:24:29) was the top female Master’s finisher.

Carlos Jaramillo earned his half marathon PR at the 3M Half Marathon. The 2020 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour provided plenty of PRs!

Jaramillo is pumped for his half marathon PR!

“I’ve been trying for years to run sub-90 minutes for 13.1 miles and it finally came together today at 3M Half Marathon,” said Carlos Jaramillo, who crossed the finish line in 1:27:59. “I’ll never forget what I accomplished at my favorite race in Texas!”

Despite chillier than normal temperatures, thousands of spectators lined the Austin streets. They cheered thousands on the point-to-point half marathon course. Their energy carried participants from north Austin and to the finish near the Texas State Capitol. Spectators hosted parties, played musical instruments, and handed out additional nutrition and hydration. The festival atmosphere stretched from the start line to the finish thanks to the on-course support of Austinites.

2021 3M Half Marathon

For those planning ahead to January 17, 2021, next year’s registration is open and set at the low price of $79. This amazing deal will be available until Wednesday, January 22nd. Don’t miss out on one of the faster half marathon courses in the country. Participants receive the best packet in the industry, full of useful 3M products. Participants can see their results on the 3M Half Marathon website and continue to share their memorable experiences on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Runners can expect their FinisherPix race day photos to be ready in 24-48 hours after the race.

Members of Rogue Running pose for a picture at the 2020 3M Half Marathon. The 2020 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour provided plenty of PRs!

Tell your teammates to join you and register for the 2021 3M Half Marathon!

The 3M Half Marathon would like to thank the volunteers, spectators, and participants who made the race so special. In conjunction with the 2020 3M Half Marathon, 3Mgives will donate $68,000 to this year’s beneficiary, Austin Youth River Watch. The following sponsors and partners made this successful race day possible: Under Armour, Fleet Feet Austin, Ascension Seton, SPIbelt, GU Energy Labs, Austin Sports Commission, H-E-B, nuun hydration, Heavenly Care Moving, Dole, Oskar Blues Brewery, Goodwill Austin, Hilton, Camp Gladiator, Austin Massage Company, Chameleon Cold Brew, City of Austin, Austin Police Department, Department of Public Safety, CapMetro, and Travis County EMS.