Taper goal: arrive hungry to race, not undertrained
Most taper mistakes are emotional: adding workouts, adding miles, or “testing fitness.”
Simple taper structure
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Reduce volume gradually, keep some intensity (shorter).
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Keep easy days truly easy.
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Prioritize sleep and predictability.
What to avoid
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New workouts or “extra long runs.”
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Aggressive stretching if you don’t normally do it.
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New shoes, new gels, new socks.
Related links
Back to the athlete guide.
Verification reminder
Race details change between editions (dates move, routes get rerouted, and registration rules update). Use this page as a starting point, then confirm time-sensitive details on the official site close to race day.
Training guardrails
- Keep easy runs truly easy so workouts stay high quality.
- Progress one variable at a time (volume first, then intensity).
- Use cutback weeks every 3–4 weeks to absorb training.
- If pain changes your gait, scale back and get assessed.
How to use this guide
Treat this page as a decision checklist:
- Confirm the race date and official logistics.
- Choose a realistic training plan length (16–24 weeks is common).
- Practice fueling and pacing in long runs.
- Keep race week simple: tested shoes, tested gels, conservative start.
Verification reminder
Race details change between editions (dates move, routes get rerouted, and registration rules update). Use this page as a starting point, then confirm time-sensitive details on the official site close to race day.
Training guardrails
- Keep easy runs truly easy so workouts stay high quality.
- Progress one variable at a time (volume first, then intensity).
- Use cutback weeks every 3–4 weeks to absorb training.
- If pain changes your gait, scale back and get assessed.
How to use this guide
Treat this page as a decision checklist:
- Confirm the race date and official logistics.
- Choose a realistic training plan length (16–24 weeks is common).
- Practice fueling and pacing in long runs.
- Keep race week simple: tested shoes, tested gels, conservative start.