The Secret to Race-Day Confidence? Your Final Long Runs

As we enter the final stretch of marathon training, the long runs left on your calendar are about more than just mileage. These are your dress rehearsals — the perfect opportunity to prepare every detail for race day. At Fleet Feet Chicago, we believe these runs are just as important for your confidence as they are for your endurance.

Practice Race-Day Fueling

The marathon is all about energy management, and that starts with fueling. Your upcoming longest training runs are the time to rehearse:

• Timing: When will you take your gels or chews? Stick to a schedule you can repeat on race day.
  
• Products: Use the same nutrition and hydration you’ll rely on in the marathon — give your stomach time to adjust.
  
• Fluids: Learn how often you need to hydrate so you can avoid hitting the wall.
  

Your body and your stomach should both feel ready for 26.2 miles.

Test Your Gear

• Race-day gear is non-negotiable — and these final long runs give you the chance to make sure everything works together.
• Wear the shoes you’ll toe the line in, the socks that keep blisters away, and the apparel that won’t rub or chafe after 20 miles.
• Don’t forget the extras: watch, sunglasses, fuel belt, hat, and gloves (to throw away after a mile). If anything feels “off,” adjust now while you still have time.

Dial in Your Pace

Pacing mistakes are the most common mishaps in marathons, often occurring in the excitement of the early miles. Use your remaining long runs to practice steady pacing, including segments at your goal marathon pace. Trust us: teaching your legs what the right pace feels like now will pay off when the adrenaline kicks in on race morning.

Build Your Mental Routine

Your long runs are also mental training sessions. Use them to practice positive self-talk, MANTRAS, or strategies that help you push through when fatigue hits. Notice the moments when your energy dips, and rehearse how you’ll respond — so on race day, you’re ready for anything.

Simulate Race Morning

Finally, treat these long runs like mini race days:

• Eat the same pre-run meal.
  
• Wake up at the same time.
  
• Practice your warm-up routine.
  
• Even lay out your gear the night before.
  

The more familiar race day feels, the less room there is for nerves.

Final Word from Your Coaches

At Fleet Feet Chicago, we know that race day success comes from more than just training miles. By using your last long runs as actual dress rehearsals, you’ll step to the start line confident, prepared, and ready to give your best effort.

We’ll be there cheering for you every step of the way — from Race Day Resort, to our Mile 23 Cheer Station!

Looking ahead? Registration is open for our Winter Warriors Training Program, which will keep you running strong through the cold months and prepare you for the F3 Lake Half Marathon in January or the Austin Marathon & Half in February. You’ll train with our RRCA- and UESCA-certified coaches, experienced pacers, and a supportive community that thrives in every season.