How to Keep the Momentum Going After the Austin Marathon
You did it! You crossed the finish line of the 2025 Austin Marathon, soaked in the incredible energy of the crowd, and earned that hard-fought medal. Whether it was your first marathon or your fifteenth, there’s nothing quite like that post-race high. But now what?
After months of training, race day has come and gone, and it’s easy to feel a little lost without the next big goal on the horizon. That’s totally normal! The key is to keep the momentum going in a way that keeps you motivated, healthy, and excited for what’s next. Here’s how:
1. Recover Right, but Keep Moving
First things first—your body needs a break! But that doesn’t mean you should stop moving altogether.
✅ Take a few rest days to let your muscles recover. You earned them!
✅ Active recovery like walking, yoga, or light swimming can help with soreness.
✅ Listen to your body. Some runners feel great after a few days, while others need two weeks before running again.
Want a fun way to shake out those post-marathon legs? Take a recovery walk or jog around Lady Bird Lake and reflect on your race day experience!
2. Set Your Next Goal
One of the best ways to avoid the post-race blues is to put something new on the calendar. It doesn’t have to be another marathon—just something that keeps you excited.
🎯 Sign up for a shorter race like the Cap10K in April or a local half marathon.
🎯 Try a new running challenge, like trail running at Barton Creek Greenbelt.
🎯 Train for speed and aim for a new PR in a 5K or 10K.
Already thinking about the 2026 Austin Marathon? You’re not alone! Early registration will be opening soon—why not commit now and give yourself a long-term goal?
3. Stay Social
One of the best parts of race day is the community—so keep that energy going!
👟 Join a local running group, like Austin Runners Club or The Morning Jo’s.
👟 Plan fun, low-pressure runs with friends (think: tacos + miles).
👟 Share your race photos and experience on social media—it might inspire someone else to start training!
4. Mix It Up
After months of structured training, it’s okay to change things up for a bit.
🔄 Try cross-training like cycling, rowing, or strength training.
🔄 Explore new running routes—take a break from your usual loops and check out new trails.
🔄 Consider coaching or pacing—helping others reach their goals is incredibly rewarding!
5. Celebrate Your Accomplishment
Before you get too caught up in “what’s next,” take a moment to reflect on what you’ve achieved.
🏅 Frame your race bib or medal.
🏅 Write down your marathon story—how you trained, what you learned, and how you felt crossing that finish line.
🏅 Treat yourself! Maybe it’s a new pair of running shoes, a post-race massage, or a big plate of barbecue at Terry Black’s.
6. Keep Austin Running!
The Austin Marathon may be over, but the running scene in ATX never stops. From fun runs to trail races, there’s always something happening. Stay plugged in, keep lacing up those shoes, and most importantly—keep having fun!
Ready to Chase Your Next Finish Line? Register for the 2026 Austin Marathon!
Why wait? Lock in your spot for next year’s race and give yourself something to train for! Early bird registration for the 2026 Austin Marathon is now open—sign up today and keep the momentum going. 💥🏃♂️
What’s your next running goal? Tag us in your post-race adventures! #RunAustin 🏃♀️🔥
The Best Coffee Shops in Austin
Of COURSE we love a good coffee shop — get it! Whether you’re meeting up with friends, fueling your day, or just craving a great cup of joe, Austin has no shortage of top-notch coffee spots perfect for runners. Here are some of our favorite top spots that also happen to be along the Austin Marathon course — perfect for locals and visitors alike!
Jo’s Coffee (Mile 1)
1300 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Recommended Drink: Iced Turbo — a sweet, creamy blend of coffee, espresso, hazelnut, chocolate, and cream that’s both refreshing and energizing.
Why Go: Established in 1999, Jo’s is a local favorite known for its laid-back vibe, live music, and great people-watching on South Congress.
Desnudo Coffee (Start Line)
111 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Recommended Drink: Brown Sugar-Miso Latte — a unique mix of sweet and savory flavors with a rich depth that makes for a memorable cup.
Why Go: This micro-roastery may be small in size, but it boasts bold flavors and a commitment to quality, offering a cozy environment to fuel up.
Mañana (Mile 2)
1603 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Recommended Drink: Mañana Fog — a warm, soothing blend of Earl Grey tea, vanilla, and steamed milk that’s perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Why Go: Located inside the stylish South Congress Hotel, Mañana pairs minimalist design with incredible pastries, perfect for a relaxing hangout.
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters (Mile 9)
3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
Recommended Drink: Bottomless Drip Coffee — perfect for a no-timeline chill on the deck overlooking the lake.
Why Go: With lakeside views and a spacious deck, Mozart’s offers one of the most scenic coffee spots in town. Bonus: they’re known for their dazzling holiday light displays.
Bouldin Creek Cafe (Mile 5)
1900 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
Recommended Drink: Lavender Mocha — a rich chocolatey drink with a soothing floral twist, perfect for unwinding.
Why Go: With its artsy vibe and locally loved vegetarian menu, Bouldin Creek Cafe is a gem for both coffee and community.
Civil Goat Coffee (Mile 13)
3423 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705
Recommended Drink: Citrus Bloom — a bright and refreshing citrus-infused latte that’s as vibrant as Austin itself.
Why Go: Civil Goat is home to Butters, the resident pygmy goat, who adds a touch of whimsy to your coffee break.
Flitch Coffee (Mile 22)
641 Tillery St, Austin, TX 78702
Recommended Drink: Maple Latte — a subtly sweet and warming drink that’s perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon breaks.
Why Go: Operating out of a vintage Spartan trailer, Flitch offers a relaxed outdoor vibe in the heart of East Austin.
Austin’s coffee scene is the perfect place to relax and recharge. Whether you’re looking for a classic spot like Jo’s Coffee or a more laid-back vibe at Flitch, these coffee shops offer the perfect atmosphere for runners to unwind, sip, and recharge.
