September 2024

7 Important Items You Need to Start Marathon Training

Start marathon training on the right foot with these 7 marathon training essential items

Training for the Austin Marathon is an exciting journey, but it also requires smart preparation to ensure you’re ready to tackle the race. With the right gear, you can train more effectively, stay comfortable, and perform your best on race day. Whether you’re new to marathons or an experienced runner, these seven essential items will help you cross the finish line strong.

1. Running-Specific Shoes

Your feet are the foundation of your running, so it’s crucial to invest in a pair of high-quality, running-specific shoes. Proper shoes help reduce the risk of injury, provide support for your stride, and offer the necessary cushioning for long-distance runs. Everyone’s foot structure and running style are unique, so it’s important to find shoes that suit you specifically.

Pro Tip: Visit our friends at Fleet Feet Austin for a professional shoe fitting. Their staff uses 3D foot scanning and gait analysis to find the perfect pair for you. Getting professionally fitted helps ensure your shoes are not only comfortable but also offer the right support for long training runs and race day. Plus, breaking in your shoes well before race day can prevent blisters and discomfort.

2. Comfortable, Moisture-Wicking Socks

The right socks can make all the difference in preventing blisters and keeping your feet comfortable over long distances.

Look for running-specific socks made from moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic blends. These fabrics help keep your feet dry by wicking away sweat, reducing the chances of chafing and hot spots.

3. Weather-Appropriate Gear

Austin’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for various conditions. For hot or humid days, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Look for moisture-wicking tops, shorts, or tights that keep sweat off your skin.

For cooler weather, layering is key—consider thermal tops or jackets designed for running, and invest in gloves or hats to keep warm during colder months. Read more on how temperature can affect our running.

4. Running Belt (SPIbelt)

Carrying your essentials, such as your phone, keys, gels, or ID, can be tricky without the right gear. The SPIbelt (Small Personal Item Belt) is a compact, expandable running belt that keeps your belongings secure and prevents bouncing or discomfort.

It’s lightweight and sits snugly around your waist, making it easy to focus on your run without worrying about your items.

5. Nutrition

Proper nutrition is key to maintaining energy during your long training runs and the marathon itself. Consuming easy-to-digest energy gels can help sustain your endurance and prevent energy crashes. During your training, experiment with different gels to see which ones your body tolerates best.

One excellent option is BPN (Bare Performance Nutrition) energy gels. BPN is the official on-course nutrition partner for the Austin Marathon, meaning their products will be provided at aid stations during the race. Training with BPN gels now ensures that your body is already familiar with the nutrients and fuel you’ll be consuming on race day—eliminating any surprises when it matters most.

6. Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential for any marathoner. During your training runs, ensure you’re drinking enough fluids to stay hydrated before, during, and after your workout. Incorporating an electrolyte drink into your hydration plan is a great way to replace minerals lost through sweat.

As the official hydration provider for the Austin Marathon, BPN offers an excellent range of electrolyte drinks designed specifically for athletes. Consider training with their Electrolyte formula so that your body is well-adapted to the hydration stations you’ll encounter on race day.

7. Extras: Hat, Sunglasses, and Headphones

Don’t overlook the small extras that can make your training more enjoyable. A lightweight, moisture-wicking hat will keep the sun off your face, while running sunglasses will protect your eyes from UV rays. If you enjoy running to music or podcasts, invest in a pair of sweat-proof, wireless headphones designed for running. These extras add comfort and enjoyment to your runs.

The right gear can make a significant difference in your marathon training and race-day experience. From choosing the perfect running shoes at Fleet Feet Austin to incorporating BPN nutrition and hydration into your routine, these essentials will help you train smarter, stay comfortable, and perform your best. Test each piece of gear throughout your training to ensure that you’re ready to run your best Austin Marathon—confident, prepared, and without any last-minute surprises.

October in Austin: A Month of Events You Don’t Want to Miss

in Blog post

Fall is finally here in Austin, and while we’re all counting down the days until the Austin Marathon, October is packed with events that make this city so special. From music festivals to major sports matchups, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your calendar, because we’re diving into all the must-see events happening this October in Austin!

1. Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival – Weekend 1 & 2

It wouldn’t be October in Austin without the iconic ACL Festival taking over Zilker Park. Whether you’re rocking out with the headliners or discovering your new favorite band at one of the smaller stages, this is one event you can’t miss. Happening across two weekends, October 4-6 and October 11-13, ACL brings some of the world’s biggest names in music right to the heart of the city. And with perfect fall weather rolling in, it’s the ideal time to enjoy live music outdoors!

Pro tip: If you’re training for the Austin Marathon, you can use ACL as your long run soundtrack. Why not log some miles around Zilker before settling in for a day of music?

2. Party for the Parks – October 9

If you love Austin’s green spaces, you’ll want to check out Party for the Parks, the Austin Parks Foundations annual fundraiser, on October 9. This event raises funds for Austin’s beloved parks (which, let’s be real, many of us run through!). Enjoy live music, local food, and drinks while giving back to the places that make Austin such a fantastic city to run and play in. It’s the perfect way to kick off ACL weekend while supporting a good cause.

3. Formula 1 United States Grand Prix – October 18-20

Shift gears from running shoes to race cars with the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. From October 18-20, the world’s fastest drivers will zoom into Austin for one of the most thrilling weekends of the year. Even if you’re not a die-hard F1 fan, the atmosphere is electric. Plus, this event pulls in global visitors, turning Austin into an even more vibrant hub of activity. There’s also post-race concerts and food galore, so get ready for some high-octane fun!

4. Austin FC – October 19

October is a huge month for Austin FC, and the energy at Q2 Stadium is electric! Mark your calendars for the October 19 match against Colorado FC. With 90 minutes of nonstop soccer action, you’ll still have plenty of time to explore Austin before or after the game. Pro Tip: For post-game drinks, head over to The Domain, right next to the stadium!

5. University of Texas Football Games – October 19 & 26

Fall Saturdays in Austin mean one thing: Texas Longhorns football. October is a busy month for UT, with several home games at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Austin, nothing beats the energy of game day on campus. Here are the games you can catch this month:

October 12: Texas vs. Oklahoma Red River Rivalry ( Although this game takes place in Dallas, the excitement is just as intense here in Austin. You’ll find watch parties all over the city, so even if you’re not in the stands, you won’t miss out on the game-day energy)
October 19: Texas vs. Georgia
October 26: Texas vs. Vanderbilt

Whether you’re tailgating with friends, cheering from the stands, or watching the game at a local bar, UT football is an essential part of Austin culture. And if you’re looking to stay active on game days, try a morning run around the UT campus before heading to the stadium. You’ll get a great workout and a front-row seat to the pregame excitement.

6. Livestrong Challenge – October 20

Ready to push yourself for a great cause? The Livestrong Challenge returns to Austin on October 19-20, offering a weekend packed with cycling, running, and walking events to support cancer survivors and their families. Whether you’re tackling the 5K, 10K, or joining a cycling route, this event combines fitness with a purpose. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stay active while giving back to the community. Rally your friends, get moving, and be part of a powerful movement that’s all about strength and support!

If you’re not doing something sports related in Austin this weekend what are you doing!?

7. Get Ready for the Austin Marathon!

While you’re enjoying everything October has to offer, don’t forget—the Austin Marathon is just a few months away! Whether you’re starting your training plan or upping your mileage, all these incredible events can keep you motivated and excited about what’s to come.

So mark your calendars, and make the most of October in Austin! There’s no better way to experience the city’s energy than by diving into its music, sports, and festivals. See you out there!

How to Protect Your Skin on the Run: Essential Tips for Runners

in Blog post

As runners, we spend a lot of time outdoors soaking up the Texas sunshine. While getting out in the fresh air is great for our training (and our souls!), it’s important to remember that all that exposure to the elements can take a toll on our skin. Whether you’re logging miles in the Texas heat or training through cooler fall weather, protecting your skin should be part of your routine.

Here are some essential tips to keep your skin safe and healthy while you chase those running goals—and a shoutout to our awesome sponsors, L’Oréal’s La Roche-Posay and CeraVe dermatology lines, for helping us runners stay protected by providing sunscreen in the participant swag bags.

1. Apply Sunscreen Every Time You Run

This is the number one rule for any runner—never skip the sunscreen! The sun’s UV rays can be harmful year-round, not just during the summer, and running outdoors increases your exposure. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re out for a long run.

A great option is La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and designed for active use, so it won’t drip into your eyes mid-run. Plus, it provides powerful protection without feeling greasy.

2. Don’t Forget the Ears, Lips, and Scalp

When you’re gearing up for a run, it’s easy to overlook certain spots that are just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your body. Make sure you cover your ears, lips, and scalp—these areas often get neglected but are just as exposed to harmful rays. Use a lip balm with SPF and consider a hat or visor to shield your scalp and face.

La Roche-Posay’s Cicaplast Balm is a runner’s dream for protecting sensitive skin areas. Its soothing formula works great on lips and dry patches, making it a versatile addition to your skin-care arsenal.

3. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing

While sunscreen is essential, adding a layer of clothing designed to block UV rays can give you an extra boost of protection. Look for moisture-wicking, UPF-rated running gear that can shield your skin without trapping heat. This can help reduce your need for sunscreen reapplication and keep your skin cool during long workouts.

Even a wide-brimmed hat or lightweight long-sleeve shirt can make a difference in protecting your skin on the sunniest days.

4. Hydrate Inside and Out

Proper hydration isn’t just about keeping your muscles happy—it’s crucial for your skin, too. Running causes you to lose moisture through sweat, which can leave your skin dry and irritated. Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your run to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

After your run, using a hydrating moisturizer can replenish the moisture your skin loses and keep it smooth and healthy. A product like La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer can help repair your skin’s moisture barrier and soothe any irritation caused by sun and sweat.

5. Be Mindful of Your Running Time

The time of day you choose to run can have a big impact on your skin’s exposure to harmful UV rays. Try to avoid peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest. If possible, schedule your runs early in the morning or later in the evening. Your skin—and your performance—will thank you for the cooler, less intense conditions.

6. Post-Run Skin Care Is Key

Once you’ve crushed your run, don’t forget to give your skin some TLC. Rinse off sweat and sunscreen with a gentle cleanser to prevent breakouts and irritation. Follow up with a soothing moisturizer to lock in hydration and repair any damage from your workout.

La Roche-Posay’s Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin post-run. It helps remove dirt, sweat, and sunscreen without stripping away your skin’s natural oils.

Whether you’re training for the Austin Marathon or simply enjoying a casual jog through town, taking care of your skin is a must. With the right protection, you can focus on hitting your goals without worrying about sun damage. So, gear up with sunscreen, grab your favorite sun hat, and keep those miles rolling!

We’ll see you at the finish line—healthy skin and all!

Official Nonprofits Selected for 2025 Austin Marathon®

in Blog post, Charity, Press Release

Marathon’s Philanthropic Program Continues Support of Local Charities

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is excited to announce the full roster of charities selected for their 2025 Austin Marathon Gives program. Austin Marathon Gives is the Official Charity Program for the Austin Marathon®. Each non-profit will raise awareness for their mission and recruit runners to fundraise on their behalf while they train for the Austin Marathon, set to take place on Feb. 16, 2025 in downtown Austin, Texas.

For the 2025 event, 27 nonprofits have been accepted out of a competitive application process.

The selected charities are as follows:

Dell Children’s Medical Center
Austin Partners in Education
Odyssey School
Autism Society of Texas
Ghisallo Cycling Initiative
Austin Theatre Alliance – Paramount Theatres
Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas
Marathon Kids
CureDuchenne
Soccer Assist – Los Verdes
Sam’s Adventure Camp
Flatwater Foundation
Gazelle Foundation
GenerationSERVE
Back on My Feet
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Texas 4000 for Cancer
Operation Get Out
U. R. Our Hope
Austin Wildlife Rescue
Austin Angels
Camp Kesem UT
Austin Parks Foundation
Gray for Glioblastoma
Upbring
Austin Child Guidance Center
Miracle Foundation

The Austin Marathon Gives program has been running for over a decade, evolving into one of the central elements of the event’s mission to give back to the community. The program connects runners, sponsors and supporters with local nonprofits encouraging participants to fundraise or donate directly to causes they care about.

Since its inception, the Austin Marathon Gives program has raised more $5.5 million for various charities in central Texas and beyond. “The program has grown in scope and impact, offering more opportunities for participants to get involved with charitable initiatives. Today, it is a key feature of the Austin Marathon, demonstrating the power of endurance sports to create positive change,” says Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events, the producers of the Austin Marathon.

Runners who want to support one of the Austin Marathon Gives non-profit partners can easily do so during the registration process for any race distance. By selecting a charity when they register, runners will receive a welcome email from the non-profit with details about the organization, how they’ll be supported throughout their training, and instructions on setting up a personal fundraising page to help reach their goals.

Additionally, individuals can support these charities by volunteering at one of the official AMG volunteer stations along the course on race day. Whether running the marathon, half marathon, or 5K, or volunteering, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. The program’s goal for 2025 is to raise $500,000 for these deserving organizations. Registration is currently open for all three distances.

About the Austin Marathon®: Since its inception in 1992, the Austin Marathon® has emerged as a world-class running event, attracting participants from all 50 states and over 50 countries. With a course that spans every quadrant of this dynamic city, offering a festive atmosphere with live music throughout, the marathon culminates in a vibrant finisher party. The event also serves as a powerful force for good, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for various non-profit organizations. The Austin Marathon elevates Presidents Day weekend into a grand showcase of athleticism and community spirit, making it a bucket-list event for athletes, enthusiasts, and supporters from all over the world.