Your Marathon Training Check-In: Everything You Need To Know

Your Marathon Training Check-In: Everything You Need To Know

From The Runna Podcast by Runna

February 20, 2026 · 34 min · Season 1 · Episode 98

About this episode

This episode provides a mid-marathon training check-in, addressing common challenges and adjustments for runners.

Is marathon training meant to feel this hard? 🏃‍♂️  If you’re halfway through your training block and suddenly your legs feel heavier, marathon pace feels daunting, and your confidence has dipped - you’re not alone. In this episode, Ben and Anya bring you a mid-marathon training check-in for anyone building towards a spring race like London or Boston (or any marathon, really). We break down why this stage of training often feels tougher than expected - both physically and mentally - and what’s actually normal. From cumulative fatigue and slower paces, to motivation dips and fuelling mistakes, this is your reminder to zoom out, trust the process, and make a few smart adjustments if needed. Whether you’re chasing a PB or just aiming to get to the start line feeling strong, this episode will help you reset, refocus, and keep going. Highlights include:  🏃 Heavy Legs & Slower Paces: Why this doesn’t mean you’re losing fitness 🔥 Burnout vs. “Appropriately Tired”: Knowing the difference 🍝 Marathon fuelling Mistakes: The hidden reason your runs feel harder 💤 Recovery & rest days: where your marathon fitness actually happens Most runners don’t quit at mile 20. They…

People in this episode

Hosts: Ben, Anya

Topics covered

  • marathon training
  • cumulative fatigue
  • motivation dips
  • fuelling mistakes
  • recovery
  • mental health

Keywords

  • marathon training
  • heavy legs
  • burnout
  • fuelling mistakes
  • recovery days
  • motivation

Sponsors

Runna

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Runna

Places: London, Boston

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