When it comes to the marathon, there are few others with the resume of Meb Keflezighi. He holds a personal record time of 2 hours 8 minutes and 37 seconds, titles from Boston and New York, and an Olympic Silver Medal. With 26 races at the distance under his belt (which you can each read about in his book 26 Marathons), he has truly experienced it all. That being noted, he also had to start with the first one.
Meb often shares about his experiences, happenings, and advice for runners of all levels. Calling back on his decades of experience, he recently took to Instagram to share his tips for first-time (and returning) marathoners. Here are Meb’s suggestions:
Run with a Team
Having a group of individuals to support you in your efforts is surprisingly motivating. Even a weekly community group run is a great way to connect with others on the same journey as you.
Get the Right Shoes
Make sure the thing between you and the ground is right for your running style. Many local running stores have knowledgeable individuals to guide you to the right fit, in addition to various online resources.
Plan Right for Training
No matter what, you are going to have to train. Make a plan that factors in various workouts, but also an appropriate amount of rest.
Vaseline
Blisters on your feet and discomfort in private areas is nothing to be ashamed of. When you notice the signs of such discomfort, find a remedy that keeps you in training.
Train Slowly but Surely
Let the fitness come to you. Everyone trains at a different pace, but make sure yours is right for you. The first goal is to arrive as healthy as possible on race day.
Meb’s talent in running has spanned the distances through his career. Before earning spots on the USA Olympic Team for the marathon (2004, 2012, and 2016), he first represented the US at the Sydney Games in 2000 in the 10,000 meters. Keflezighi was also masterful off the roads, earning three USA titles in cross country, a discipline which he credits with being, “a way to assimilate myself into a new culture,” from his days running in high school in San Diego.
Now retired from professional running, Meb stays to be connected to the sport in numerous ways. Whether joining the broadcast booth for the latest Boston Marathon or championing youth health, education, and fitness through the MEB Foundation, Marathon Meb continues to pour his all into each of his endeavors.
