Spring into Training: Building Your Base for Fall Races

in Blog post, Tips, Training Advice

Ah, spring in Austin — when the bluebonnets bloom, the trails warm up, and the post-marathon glow (or soreness!) starts to fade. Whether you just crossed the finish line at the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon or you’re eyeing your next big challenge this fall, now is the perfect time to shift gears and start laying down that oh-so-important foundation: your training base.

Let’s break it down and get you ready to spring into training — the smart way.

Why Base Building Matters

Think of base training like prepping the canvas before painting a masterpiece. It’s not flashy, it’s not fast, but it sets the tone for everything that comes next. Whether you’re chasing a new PR at the Austin Half Marathon or tackling your first-ever 26.2, this phase is where your aerobic engine gets stronger, your muscles adapt, and your body recovers from any lingering post-race fatigue.

Skipping base building? That’s like trying to put up drywall before you’ve framed the house. It won’t end well.

Step 1: Reset & Reflect

Before you lace up, take a breath. Literally. Spring is a chance to check in with yourself. How did your last race go? What felt good? What needs work?

Pro tip: Take 1–2 weeks of active recovery (think easy walks, yoga, or casual rides around Lady Bird Lake) before diving back into structured training. Your body (and brain) need that downtime.

Step 2: Build the Habit, Not the Mileage

Spring base training is all about consistency, not intensity. Start with 3–4 easy runs per week, focusing on time on your feet rather than pace. Aim for conversational running — you should be able to chat with a running buddy without huffing and puffing.

This is also a great time to reestablish your routine: morning runs, weekend long runs, and maybe a strength session or two. Nothing fancy. Just steady, feel-good movement.

Step 3: Hit the Trails (or Try a New Route!)

One of the best parts of spring base building in Austin? The weather is (usually) fantastic, and the city is full of scenic, runner-friendly routes. Explore new areas to keep things fresh:

The Barton Creek Greenbelt: Soft surface, shady, and full of nature vibes.
Shoal Creek Trail: A mellow, meandering path great for recovery runs.
Pease Park to UT Loop: Add a little urban flair to your base miles.

Need inspiration? Check out our Austin’s Hidden Running Routes — we’ve mapped out some gems perfect for this phase.

Step 4: Strengthen Your (Running) Core

Don’t let your muscles take a spring break. Base training is the perfect time to build strength and prevent injury. Hit the gym (or your living room floor) 2–3 times a week with exercises that target your core, hips, and glutes. Think lunges, planks, bridges, and band work.

Your future self at Mile 22 will thank you.

Step 5: Sprinkle in Some Fun

Not every run has to be serious. Sign up for a local 5K, run with friends, or join a group like Austin Runners Club or Gilbert’s Gazelles. Enjoying the process now makes those long fall training blocks way more manageable later on.

Bonus: You might just meet your future training buddy for the next Austin Marathon.

Looking Ahead to Fall Races

By the time summer rolls around (yes, we’re talking real heat training), your base should be strong, your habits solid, and your body ready to ramp things up. That’s when the magic happens — speed work, tempo runs, long-run progression — all built on the foundation you’re laying right now.

Whether you’re racing the Austin Half, Full, or 5K this coming February or tackling a different fall goal race, your success starts this spring.

TL;DR: Your Spring Training To-Do List

✅ Reflect and recover
✅ Run easy and consistently
✅ Explore new Austin routes
✅ Build strength
✅ Have fun and stay social

Mental Strategies for Austin Marathon (That Actually Work)

in Tips, Training Advice

How to Outsmart the Wall and Enjoy the Ride

You’ve trained for months. Logged the miles. Dialed in your nutrition. And now race day is almost here.

But there’s one thing you can’t measure on your Garmin: your mindset.

Whether you’re chasing a PR or just trying to make it to the finish line with both shoes still on, your mental game can make or break your marathon. And at the Austin Marathon—where the energy is high, the hills are real, and the crowd is LOUD—your mind might just be your biggest asset.

So, let’s talk strategy. Here are 7 mental tricks that actually work when it comes to staying strong, focused, and positive all 26.2 miles through downtown, the Capitol, SoCo, and beyond.

1. Break the Race into Bite-Sized Chunks

Running 26.2 miles sounds… a little terrifying, right? So don’t.

Mentally divide the course into smaller, more manageable sections. Think:

The first 5 miles are your warm-up (especially through downtown and along South Congress).
Miles 6 to 13? You’re cruising.
13.1 to 20 is where the mental toughness kicks in.
And 20 to 26.2? That’s where you empty the tank and channel your inner Texan grit.

Pro tip: Pick landmarks you know along the Austin course to serve as your mental checkpoints. “Okay, I just gotta make it over the bridge… now just to the UT Tower… now just to that killer band near Mile 23…”

2. Use a Power Playlist (Even If You’re Not Listening to Music)

Whether you’re racing with headphones or not, having a few “power songs” in your head can keep your spirits up. Bonus points if they’re from Austin artists—shoutout to Spoon, Willie Nelson, or even Gary Clark Jr. for those motivational vibes.

Create a playlist for your training, then mentally cue those songs during tough stretches. You’d be surprised how much a good beat can distract from a burning quad.

3. Find Your Mantra

You don’t need to go full yogi, but having a simple, repeatable mantra can keep your brain from spiraling when things get tough.

Try:

“Strong and steady.”
“I’ve got this.”
“One mile at a time.”
“I CAN do hard things.”
Or our personal favorite: “Keep Austin Running.”

Repeat it on the hills. Whisper it through mile 23. Shout it at the finish if you want. It works.

4. Use the Crowd (They’re Basically Your Teammates)

The energy at the Austin Marathon is electric. From the bands on the course to the high-fives in Hyde Park, the crowd is there to lift you up.

Make eye contact. Smile. Read the signs (some of them are hilarious). Let their energy carry you.

If you’re starting to struggle, look up, not down. Connect with someone in the crowd. It’s wild how much of a boost that can give.

5. Do Some Mental Math (Weirdly, It Helps)

When you hit a rough patch, distract yourself with simple calculations. How many water stops are left? How many songs until the finish? If you’re at mile 18, how many 5Ks left?

This kind of thinking redirects your brain away from the “OMG I’m dying” loop and gives it a task to focus on. Plus, it makes the distance feel doable.

6. Expect the Low Points (and Know They’ll Pass)

No matter how well-trained you are, there will probably be a mile (or three) when you feel like quitting. That doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human.

Prepare for that feeling in advance. Tell yourself: “At some point I will feel awful. But I will keep going anyway.”

And then… do exactly that.

7. Visualize the Finish Line (Because It’s the Best Feeling Ever)

Take a few quiet minutes the night before the race to picture yourself crossing the finish line on historic Congress Avenue. Hear the announcer. Feel the medal around your neck. Imagine wearing that finisher shirt.

Hold onto that image when things get tough. It’s not just motivation—it’s a promise you’re keeping to yourself.

Final Thoughts

Running the Austin Marathon is more than a physical achievement—it’s a mental triumph. And with the right mindset, you’ll not only conquer the course, you’ll actually enjoy the journey. (Even that hill at Mile 11. Maybe.)

So, lace up, breathe deep, and remember—you’re stronger than you think. You’ve got the legs, you’ve got the heart, and now? You’ve got the mental game.

See y’all at the finish line. 🏁

Why You Should Run in the Rain

in Blog post, Training Advice

Running in the rain might sound miserable at first, but hear us out: it can actually be one of the most refreshing, rewarding, and memorable workouts you’ll ever have. Whether you’re training for the Austin Marathon or just want to spice up your usual routine, here’s why you should embrace those rainy-day runs.

1. Build Mental Toughness

When you head out for a run despite gloomy weather, you’re training more than just your legs—you’re strengthening your mindset. Overcoming discomfort prepares you to push through challenges on race day. If you can conquer wind, rain, and wet socks, you can conquer 26.2 miles.

2. Cool and Comfortable Conditions

Rain often means cooler temperatures, which can make for an unexpectedly pleasant run. Without the Texas sun blazing down, you’ll stay cooler longer and might even set a new personal best.

3. Fewer Crowds

Rainy days tend to keep most people indoors, meaning you’ll have trails, parks, or your favorite running routes practically to yourself. No weaving through crowds, just you and the open road.

4. Boost Your Confidence

Running in less-than-ideal conditions shows you can adapt and thrive no matter what race day throws your way. Whether it’s unexpected drizzle or a full-on downpour, you’ll be ready to face it head-on.

5. It’s Fun (Yes, Really!)

There’s something oddly freeing about splashing through puddles and embracing the chaos of a rainy run. Channel your inner kid, let go of expectations, and enjoy the moment.

Rain-Running Tips for Success

Dress Smart: Wear moisture-wicking fabrics and a lightweight, breathable rain jacket to stay comfortable.
Mind Your Feet: Opt for shoes with solid traction to reduce slips. A layer of Vaseline or Body Glide on your feet can help prevent blisters.
Watch Out for Road Markings: Painted lines and other road markings can become especially slippery when wet.
Tell Someone Your Plans: Always let someone know where you plan on running and how long you expect to be gone. You can also share your location for added safety.
Protect Your Electronics: Use a waterproof phone case or plastic bag to keep your gear dry.
Be Visible: Rain can reduce visibility, so wear bright colors or reflective gear to stay safe.
Dry Your Shoes Properly: After your run, stuff your shoes with a towel or newspaper to help them dry faster and keep their shape.

Embrace the Rain, Embrace the Challenge

Next time the clouds roll in, don’t retreat to the treadmill—get out there and embrace the rain. It’s one more way to build strength, endurance, and resilience on your journey to race day. Plus, it makes that post-run hot shower feel even more amazing.

Run Austin®, rain or shine.

Beyond Running: How to Stay Active and Crush Your Marathon Goals

in Blog post, Tips, Training Advice

Preparing for the Austin Marathon is an exciting journey, and staying active is key to crossing that finish line with a smile. While running is the main dish, think of these other activities as the perfect sides that’ll keep you strong, balanced, and ready for race day. Let’s explore different ways to stay active while you prepare for the big event!

1. Cross-Training

Cross-training is like giving your running muscles a well-deserved break while still working on your fitness. Cycling, swimming, or even rowing can boost your cardiovascular endurance without the repetitive impact of running. Plus, Austin’s gorgeous weather makes it easy to enjoy a bike ride around Lady Bird Lake or a swim at Barton Springs Pool.

2. Strength Training

Building strength is crucial for improving your running performance and preventing injuries. Focus on exercises that target your core, legs, and upper body. Squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups can be done at home or at your local gym. Consider hitting up an outdoor workout space like the ones in Pease Park or Butler Park for a change of scenery.

3. Yoga and Stretching

Running can make your muscles tight, so yoga and regular stretching sessions are a must. Yoga helps improve flexibility, balance, and mental focus—all of which are beneficial on race day. Check out a local studio like Black Swan Yoga, or enjoy some outdoor yoga at Zilker Park. A simple post-run stretching routine can also do wonders to keep you limber.

4. Trail Running

Switching up your running surface by hitting the trails is a great way to stay active while challenging your body in new ways. The uneven terrain of Austin’s trails, like the Barton Creek Greenbelt, engages different muscles than road running and can improve your balance and agility. Plus, the scenic views are a bonus!

5. Group Fitness Classes

Staying motivated can be tough, but group fitness classes offer a fun way to stay active and meet fellow fitness enthusiasts. From HIIT to spin classes, Austin has plenty of options. Joining a class adds variety to your routine, and the camaraderie can help keep your spirits high as race day approaches.

6. Dancing

Who says training can’t be fun? Dancing is a fantastic way to stay active, improve your coordination, and get your heart pumping. Whether it’s a Zumba class or a visit to one of Austin’s dance studios, you’ll be moving your body in a whole new way. And hey, it’s great for mental health too!

7. Swimming

Swimming is a full-body workout that’s easy on the joints, making it a perfect complement to running. It’s a great way to stay cool while staying active, especially during Austin’s hot months. The Deep Eddy Pool offers a historic and relaxing place to get in some laps.

8. Walking or Hiking

On days when you need a break from running, a brisk walk or hike can be a great alternative. It keeps you moving without the intensity of a run. Explore the trails at Mount Bonnell or enjoy a sunset walk around the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Walking can also be a great way to recover on your rest days while still staying active.

9. Plyometrics

Plyometric exercises, like jump squats, box jumps, or burpees, are excellent for building explosive strength and improving your running power. These high-intensity movements can help you develop the speed and agility needed for that final push in the marathon. Just a couple of sessions a week can make a big difference!

10. Rollerblading or Skating

Take a break from running and try rollerblading or skating. It’s a fun way to engage your leg muscles in a different way while still working on balance and coordination. The Walnut Creek Hike and Bike Trail are ideal for this activity.

Why Variety Matters

Incorporating different activities into your training not only keeps things interesting but also helps build a well-rounded fitness level. Variety prevents burnout, reduces the risk of overuse injuries, and makes your marathon journey more enjoyable. Plus, you’ll be more likely to stick with your training plan when you’re having fun!

So, lace up those running shoes, grab your yoga mat, or hop on that bike. Every step, stretch, and movement brings you closer to that unforgettable finish line at the Austin Marathon!