Run Austin Archives

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.

Where To Run in Austin?

in Explore Austin, Running Routes, Tips

Where to run in Austin? It is such a hard question to whittle down because there are so many great running routes and places to explore. Austin is a runner’s paradise, offering a plethora of running options that cater to everyone from fitness enthusiasts to seasoned marathoners. Whether you’re gearing up for the 2025 Austin Marathon or just looking for a scenic route to get your miles in, this guide will take you through some of the most captivating terrains Austin has to offer.

Four excellent running places in Austin

There are plenty of them. But we have zeroed in on a handful that are known to provide a vivid running experience.

1. Town Lake Trail

Austin has something to offer to every runner from pro down to a rookie. So if you are a newbie, you have the 3.2-mile loop between the South First Bridge and the Mopac Bridge to explore. Marked by two water stops, this loop is short and easy to navigate. However, this area also boasts of longer trails that are seven miles and 10 miles respectively which are meant for the more experienced runners.

Parking Advice: There are several parking options available, including the parking lot at Auditorium Shores (800 W Riverside Dr) and limited street parking around the area. Be sure to arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.

2. McKinney Falls State Park

Located well within the city limits, this is one of the best places to train in Austin. This park has breathtaking scenery and waterfalls, and is home to two prominent running trails. These winding trails not only stretch for miles, but they also have elevations that rise to more than several hundred feet. This area is perfect for those of you who are contemplating participating in the Austin Marathon. But also, if running is your passion or a stress buster, this place is a must-visit.

Parking Advice: The park has a large parking area near the entrance. A small entrance fee is required, so bring some cash or a card.

3. Barton Creek Greenbelt

Located in the heart of the city, this place is inundated by miles of trees, along with various waterfalls, and limestone cliffs. Starting from Zilker Park, this trail provides a good opportunity for runners to test their skills. From navigating around uneven terrain to conquering the Hill of Life at the end of the trail. There are tons of other great trails around Austin, explore more.

Parking Advice: There are several access points to the Greenbelt, with popular spots being at Barton Springs Pool (2201 Barton Springs Rd) or the Spyglass Trailhead (1601 Spyglass Dr).

4. Travis Heights

Some neighborhoods are also great places for training in Austin, like Travis Heights. It is easier to run in neighborhoods as you can continue doing it regularly without any limit. Travis Heights is a quiet residential neighborhood dotted with hills that offer peace, and the freedom to explore your running prowess to the fullest.

Parking Advice: Street parking is available throughout the neighborhood. It’s generally easy to find a spot, but be mindful of parking signs and residential areas.

5. Barton Hills Neighborhood

The Barton Hills neighborhood offers a fantastic running experience with its quiet, residential streets and rolling hills. This area is perfect for those who prefer running in a peaceful setting. Plus, after your run, you can cool off with a refreshing dip in nearby Barton Springs, making it an ideal spot for a post-run relaxation session.

Parking Advice: Street parking is available throughout the neighborhood. Be mindful of those who live in the neighborhood and one way streets.

With its diverse running trails, Austin is truly a runner’s paradise. Whether you’re chasing your marathon dreams, ramping up your fitness routine, or simply enjoying the joy of running, Austin has the perfect trail for you. So lace up your running shoes and discover the magic of running in this vibrant city!

4 Taper Tips: Focus on Controlling What You Can Control

in Blog post

Get to the start line ready to roll with these taper tips

The Taper. If you’re unfamiliar, tapering refers to the reduction in volume and intensity of your workouts leading to race day. You’ve been running for months, increasing your mileage, getting better and better. Your body is in training mode and it can be difficult to turn that off. Follow these taper tips to effectively utilize the extra time you now have. Continue to follow your training plan, implement these taper tips, and get to the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon or Austin Half Marathon start line ready to run your best!

Take care of yourself

This is vital and something you should’ve been doing since you began training! However, it becomes even more important leading up to Feb. 16th. Your training has introduced more miles than normal, early wake-up calls, and a reduction in time for yourself. Tapering your miles means you’ll have more time for self-care. Spend an extra 30-60 minutes a day foam rolling and stretching. Schedule a massage. Make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep.

Dial-in your nutrition/hydration

Keep an eye on your calorie intake! You burned more calories during training than you will when you taper. Adjust accordingly so the pounds you shed during training stay off! Focus on a balanced diet of moderate carbs, quality protein, and healthy fats. Start hydrating NOW. You should drink 8-10 glasses of water a day. Continue including electrolytes like you’ve done during training. Carry a tube of Nuun with you, pop a tablet into your reusable bottle, and make your water count! Make sure you try the on-course fuel, GU Energy Labs.

No new workouts

Just like nothing new on race day, no new workouts when tapering. This includes everything from a pick-up basketball game to lifting heavy weights at the gym. You don’t want to run the risk of spraining your ankle or pulling a muscle. Stick with what’s comfortable. If that’s running or cross-training (swimming, cycling, etc.), focus on less-intense and lower-volume workouts.

Sidetrack yourself

An increase in your mileage could mean you’re behind on your favorite show. Maybe you haven’t read those new books you got for Christmas. Now’s the time to distract yourself from the fact that you aren’t running as much as you have been. Spend a couple of hours binging your favorite show. Grab that new book and read at your favorite park. If you find yourself getting antsy because you’re not moving, try to foam roll or stretch while watching your favorite show. Or try reading your book while riding a stationary bike.

Follow these taper tips so the taper doesn’t frustrate you or stress you out. The sudden addition of extra time and the feeling that you should be running can be confusing. Follow these taper tips and focus on controlling what you can control. What do you do to get to the start line ready to roll when you taper? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.

The Benefits of Training with a Group

in Blog post, Training Advice

Doing activities alone may not always yield the desired results. But when you join a group, the same activities may turn out to be more enjoyable, motivating, and productive, and this can be especially true for running.

If you are contemplating participating in the Austin marathon, half marathon, or 5K, training for it solo may not be beneficial. So to extract the maximum benefits out of it, joining a training group is essential.

They help you stick with it

Starting training may be easy but sustaining it over a period requires grit, determination, and above all, inspiration. So when you join a training or running group you automatically start feeling motivated because you see people around you doing the same thing. After all, running is a different ball game. It can be easy to tire out or lose enthusiasm. But when your fellow runners heap praise on you for successfully executing your training, you become supercharged. You’ll be ready to infuse more energy and perseverance into your running. This in turn also inspires others to perform with similar gusto.

Helps give you a purpose

When several people come together, there is a creative exchange of ideas. You learn from others while others learn from you. The group, therefore, helps in fostering a sense of camaraderie and companionship that you slowly begin to cherish. You may also be required to mentor other runners in the group which may give you a sense of purpose.

Helps build relationships

Group training may be the perfect way to give you purpose while also expanding social circles, be they personal or professional. As you grow closer with running mates, you may find yourself sharing joys or venting frustrations about your life in a safe and supportive environment. Running also offers an opportunity to get to know your coworkers and bosses on more than just a work level, which can help make you enjoy coming in every day, or even help in advancing your career.

They help you learn from failures

Failures are a part of any sport, but how you learn from your failures and turn them around to your advantage is the true test of an athlete. If you are alone, you may feel frustrated at those failures. But if you have a great support group, you can take lessons from your failures and convert them into success. Having a group that supports you is important if you want to transcend the barriers and reach the pinnacle of success.

In group training, your team is like a pillar of strength. They guide and encourage you to be your best self. Running together bonds you as a team and cultivates teamwork skills that will last long after the run is finished.

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