Depending on where you are in your training and what event you are planning for, the long run is an important part in any training program. It helps us build fatigue resistance and mental toughness. The long run is our teacher, allowing us to learn about ourselves so that come race day, we are ready and know what its like to be out there for many miles. Whether fueling, what you wear, breathing, preparing for bad weather-- the long run can set you up for success even when you have to face unexpected situations.
In 2022, I ran the CNO Indianapolis Marathon in 30mph winds and heavy--in your face like needles--rain. Not ideal. But my training leading up to that race, and specifically my long runs helped me prepare both physically and mentally. I was prepared physically because I knew I had executed my training well. I was confident and my long runs the month before the race were solid. And mentally I felt strong because I had been doing these long runs in hot summer heat, heavy downpours and sometimes even hail storms. I didn't always feel the best on those long runs. But I battled.
Chances are when you go for a long run, you're gonna not always gonna feel great and you may experience dramatic shifts in the weather. The more you can work through these kinds of difficult situations to find ways to be calm and mentally persevere, more often than not, the body will follow you to greatness. Being calm helps keep your heart rate and stress levels lower. And the more you practice this mindset, the greater chances you will give yourself change the opportunity to succeed. And it's important to remember you put in the work. Nothing is 100% perfect on race day. But the "long run teacher" helps us learn to be strong, both physically and mentally.
