August and September are both exciting and tough months for runners. The upcoming major events are highly anticipated, but if you aim to perform well by the end of the year, now is the time to start planning your training. However, the persistent high temperatures make it hard to leave the air-conditioned room to train. So, how can we adjust?
The increasingly hot summers make this season a break time for runners. Typically, from May to August, the number of events is minimal, allowing runners to engage in other activities and relieve the stress of long-term training. However, as races start to reappear in September, it’s a reminder for runners to resume their training.
Many runners set their top-tier race goals for the end of the year or the beginning of the next, when the cooler temperatures provide the best conditions for a personal best (PB). Whether you're preparing for a full or half marathon, it typically takes about three to four months of preparation, making now the perfect time to begin your training plan. But how do you start? Here are some tips to guide you!
1. Identify Your Target Race
The first and most important step is setting your target. The ideal temperature for a PB is usually between December and February. Among the most famous races during this period is, of course, the Taipei Marathon! Every year, it becomes more competitive, with runners vying for a spot. If you didn't secure a place, don't worry—there’s also the Standard Chartered Marathon in January, another excellent choice.
2024 Taipei Marathon
If you’re looking for other races, there are scenic and fun options like the Kinmen Marathon, Sun Moon Lake Marathon, and Tianzhong Marathon, which are known for their beautiful views and delicious food. Whether your goal is to break your PB or simply finish injury-free, proper training is necessary. Choosing a race that excites you will also give you more motivation during the training process!
2. Create a Training Plan
Now, let’s talk about your training plan. Using the Taipei Marathon as an example, with over three months left until the race on 12/15, there’s plenty of time to prepare—assuming you stick to your plan! Marathon training isn’t as hard as it might seem. Gradually build your aerobic endurance, find your most comfortable marathon pace, and run the race with a calm mindset!
A good plan helps achieve goals
For a solid training schedule, check out this article on training cycles for the Taipei Marathon.
【Running Training】Taipei Marathon Registration is Open! Are You Ready to Enter the Marathon Training Cycle?
But running outdoors in August and September might feel too hot to handle. Fortunately, the early stages of training mainly focus on building aerobic endurance, so you can use a treadmill to train. While it may not be as fun as running outdoors, it can help you avoid the risk of heatstroke caused by the heat.
3. Stick to Your Routine
Once you have a training plan, the next crucial step is to stick to it. In my experience, it’s not necessary to achieve 100% of your plan. A plan is rigid, but people are flexible. Plans give us direction to achieve our goals. Listen to your body; the training may be tough, but the sense of accomplishment after achieving your goal is something only you can experience.
Along with race prep, let me recommend some fun and exciting races worth joining in the second half of the year. Some may already be closed for registration, but keep them in mind for next year!
Recommended Races
1. 9/15 Garmin Run Asia Series - Taipei
The Garmin Run, hosted by the leading sports watch brand Garmin, is in its third year. It kicks off the second half of the season, and besides spotting famous influencers and celebrities, runners eagerly anticipate the post-race raffle, which offers several high-end sports watches and accessories. It’s an event well worth the entry fee!
2. 10/12 2024 China Airlines Marathon - Starry Night Run
Following the EVA Marathon, another famous airline, China Airlines, has entered the road running scene. The inaugural China Airlines Marathon will start in the evening, lighting up the course with starlight. Coupled with a concert and carnival at the main venue, it promises to be an exciting event.
3. 1/12 2025 Kaohsiung Fubon Marathon
The Kaohsiung Marathon has become a landmark event in recent years. Despite overlapping with Taipei’s Standard Chartered Marathon, its registration numbers remain strong. With growing popularity and improved race quality each year, it’s well on its way to becoming a World Athletics labeled event, marking Kaohsiung as a city marathon destination.
No matter which race or city you run in, don’t forget to take pictures and capture the memories. Take Bone’s running phone holder with you to carry your phone during your run and document every moment.
RunTie 2
RunTie 2