Training Tips from the Pros

Running the 3M Half Marathon? Read what these professional endurance athletes have to say.

Several athletes who have been accepted to the Austin Marathon’s Elite Athlete Program are running the 3M Half Marathon as a final tune-up before race day. They’re using this race to test various race strategies, lock in their hydration and nutrition plans, and attempt to PR (like many of you!).

The following athletes (marathon and half marathon champs, Olympic Trials Qualifiers, and Masters’ Elites) have provided tips to get you to race day and help you perform better on race day.

Mark Pinales – “Always maintain positive self-talk. Tell yourself out loud that it will hurt, that it will be tough, and that it will push you. Most importantly, tell yourself that you can do this and that you are good enough. Something I say to myself throughout the race to calm my mind is, “Relax, stay focused, and keep pushing.” This will program your mind to be ready for the pain and help you embrace it, knowing the ultimate reward is at the finish.” (2016 Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Half Marathon Champ)

Chris Kimbrough – “Stay confident in your fitness. You’ve put in the training and hard work so stay focused on the goal!” (owns Masters’ titles in the 8K, 10K, and Club XC)

Joel Harris – “Be free and have fun!” (2016 Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon Champ)

Becki Spellman (cover photo) – “When motivation is lacking make yourself go just one mile, and more times than not you’ll end up feeling more motivated and get in the entire run. If not at least you went for a run!” (3X Olympic Trials Qualifier)

Do you have any training tips you want to share with other participants? Share them on our Facebook or Twitter page and we will make sure they get passed along! Use #downhilltodowntown17.