Author: Kelsey Petersen

How to Taper for a Half Marathon: Step-by-Step Guide 

In the past weeks, you’ve dedicated yourself to training, and now your half marathon is just around the corner. But before you step up to that starting line, you have to maximize the taper period!  This strategic phase can make the difference between running a mediocre half marathon and achieving a personal best on race […]

15 Tips on How to Recover After a Half Marathon

You’ve just crossed the finish line of your half marathon. Congratulations! Running 13.1 miles is no small feat. However, after the cheers and the finish line photo, your body will likely feel the effects of such a long run. To bounce back and avoid injuries, proper post-race recovery is crucial. In this guide, we’ll consider […]

Can You Walk a Half Marathon?

If you’re wondering whether you can walk the half marathon instead of running, the simple answer is yes. Many runners whose goal is simply to cross the finish line—not to break a record—have achieved this feat. While running would get you to the finish line faster, walking a half marathon can be a rewarding experience […]

What’s a Good Half Marathon Time?

Besides the pressure of “good” times, every runner’s journey to the starting line is unique, fueled by their own goals. While elite athletes chase records, for most of us, race day is about celebrating victories. However, the question “What’s a good half marathon time?” still pops up a lot and that’s why we’re here.  Curious […]

Hydration for Young Runners: Staying Safe and Hydrated

Staying hydrated seems easy enough, but oftentimes, especially for young runners, taking the time to refuel can be forgotten when the focus is on training or the excitement of race day. But the reality is hydration should be at the top of the priority list for all runners, both kids and adults because it not […]

How to Stay Motivated During Marathon Training

When it comes to training for a marathon, a lot of runners focus on getting through the miles. Truth be told, 26.2 miles is an intimidating number, so runners train to get their bodies used to the discomfort that comes with pushing your body to its limit.  While increasing your mileage every week, adding weights, […]

Foods to Avoid Before a Half Marathon Race

Preparing for a half marathon involves being thoughtful about your diet in the days leading up to the big event.  The right foods can make a significant difference in how you feel during those 13.1 miles. For example, taking the wrong meals could lead to gastrointestinal issues, cramping, or a lack of energy when you […]

What to Eat the Day Before a Marathon

The day before a marathon is more than just a pre-race pit stop. It’s a crucial 24-hour window where you strategically top off your energy reserves and set your body up for peak performance. Get it right, and you cross the finish line feeling strong and triumphant. Get it wrong, and you could face muscle […]

Tips for Running a Marathon: 5 Strategies for 26 Miles

“Everyone can be an athlete, so long as they are willing to think like an athlete,” said Eugene Yim, MD, medical director of Hoag Sports Medicine. “That means taking sports injury prevention seriously.” With the Hoag OC Marathon just around the bend, Dr. Yim offers 5 tips for running 26 miles to cross the finish […]

When to Use Energy Gels for Running + Tips

Energy gels can deliver a boost of easily digestible carbs and electrolytes when your body needs them most. However, finding the perfect timing for fueling during your runs can make all the difference.  For example, taking energy gel too late during a long run can result in ‘hitting the wall’ due to depleted glycogen stores. […]

13 Healthy Foods to Eat After Running

The post-run meal or snack isn’t just a reward for your hard work; it’s a vital part of your training regimen. This is where the real magic of recovery and preparation for your next run happens. As a result, getting your post-nutrition food right helps you replenish your energy, repair your muscles, and prevent injuries. […]

10 Best Carb-Loading Foods for Running

Before any big race or long training run, runners need to effectively carb-load. This simply means taking in carbohydrates. These are the main fuel for your muscles, providing much-needed energy for both endurance and recovery. But here’s the catch: not all carbohydrates are equal. Choosing the right carb-loading foods is key to keeping your energy […]

Best Food to Eat Before a Run: A Nutritional Guide for Runners

The saying “you are what you eat” certainly holds in running. Generally, the meal you take before a run serves two purposes. Firstly, it prevents hunger both before and during the run, and secondly, it helps sustain optimal blood sugar levels for your muscles during exercise.  However, the wrong meal and timing can also harm […]

Nausea After Running: Causes & Solutions

You may be asking, why do I feel nauseous after running? You’re not alone. Many runners like you also experience it during or following exercise. While uncomfortable, nausea and vomiting after running is rarely a cause for serious concern. In most cases, nausea is simply your body’s signaling that something is off. So, understanding the […]

Running Slower to Run Faster: How to Increase Your Running Pace

As a runner, you have a goal to improve your running pace and performance. It could be for a marathon, a 5K, or just for fun. But how do you achieve that? Most times, you might think that the answer is to run faster and harder every time you hit the road or the treadmill. […]

Hoag announced as new Title Sponsor of the OC Marathon

20th running of the Hoag OC Marathon to take place on May 5, 2024 – New three year partnership reinforces how the benefits of running lead to significant improvements in overall health NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., December 4, 2023  In its ongoing commitment to creating a healthier community, Hoag announced today it will be the title […]

Does a Hot Bath Help Sore Muscles? What You Need to Know

If you have ever experienced muscle soreness after a workout, you may have wondered if a hot bath can help ease the pain. Well, you’re not alone.  Muscle soreness affects many people who engage in physical activities, whether it’s for fitness, sports, or recreation. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and interfere […]

Hill Running Training for Marathon Runners: A Complete Guide

Running up hills can seem intimidating. It can make your legs burn and your lungs work overtime. Because of this, many marathon runners avoid hills in their training. But hills can actually make you a better, faster marathon runner—if done well.  If you are preparing for a marathon and you’re looking to incorporate hill running […]

Fartlek vs. Interval Training: Which is Best for Your Running Goals

Mixing up your training is crucial to improving your performance as a runner. While easy and long runs should make up most of your mileage, targeted speed sessions like fartlek and interval training take your fitness to the next level.  But what’s the difference between these two popular training techniques? And when should you choose […]

Tempo Runs Vs. Interval Runs: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, tempo runs and interval runs might appear as mere variations in speed, but, that’s far from the truth. They actually serve different purposes. In this article, we’ll delve deep into what tempo and interval runs are, what benefits they offer, and which will work best for you in your running training plan. […]

Ankle Pain When Running: Causes, Prevention, and Relief

Running provides numerous health benefits. However, it can also put a lot of stress on the body, particularly the ankles. Due to various factors, ankle pain when running has become prevalent, with some estimates stating it accounts for up to 13.7% of running injuries. This is because ankles are crucial in running, absorbing impact, and […]

Does Creatine Help with Running? What You Need to Know

If you’re a runner, you must have heard about how creatine enhances performance in the athletic community.  Indeed, many scientific studies and first-hand accounts vouch for its effectiveness. As a result, it has become a popular supplement among many athletes and bodybuilders looking to gain muscle, power, and explosiveness. Yet, its efficacy among endurance athletes […]

Interval Training for Runners- A Complete Guide

Interval training is a structured form of exercise that alternates between periods of high-intensity effort and active recovery. For runners, interval training involves running at a faster pace, close to or at maximum effort, during the high-intensity intervals, followed by a slower, more relaxed pace during the recovery intervals. This guide will teach you how […]

How Long Does It Take to Train for a Half Marathon?

If you’re looking for a new challenge in your running journey, you might be considering signing up for a half marathon.  A half marathon is a great way to test your endurance, improve your fitness, and have fun along the way. But how long does it take to train for a half marathon? And what […]

6-Month Half Marathon Training Plan: A Complete Guide

Are you dreaming of running a half marathon but don’t know where to start? Do you want to challenge yourself and achieve a new level of fitness and endurance? If so, this guide is for you. Running a half marathon (13.1 miles) is a rewarding and exhilarating experience that can boost your confidence, health, and […]

Half to Full Marathon Training Plan for Beginners

Are you ready to take on the ultimate running challenge and go from a half marathon to a full marathon?  If you’ve already conquered the 13.1-mile distance, you might be wondering how to train for a marathon and what it takes to double your endurance. The truth is, training for a full marathon is not […]

Can You Train for a Marathon on a Treadmill? [All You Need To Know]

Are you dreaming of running a marathon but facing challenges or limitations with outdoor training?  Maybe the weather is unpredictable, safety concerns are holding you back, or your busy schedule leaves little time for running during daylight hours and you’re left wondering if you can use a treadmill to train for a marathon. Don’t worry! […]

Cross Training for Marathon: A Complete Guide for 2024

As a marathon runner, you’re constantly seeking ways to improve your performance, prevent injuries, and enhance your overall fitness.  One effective strategy to achieve these goals is cross training for marathon races. Cross-training involves engaging in a variety of exercises and activities that complement your running routine, targeting different muscle groups, and improving overall fitness […]

Tempo Run for Marathon Training and Why They Matter

If you are training for a marathon, you might have heard of tempo runs. But what are they exactly and why are they important for your performance and endurance?  In this blog post, we will delve into the topic- “tempo run for marathon training”, explain what tempo runs are, how they can benefit you, and […]

Can You Run a Marathon Without Training?

Have you ever wondered if you can run a marathon without training?  Maybe you are a casual runner who enjoys the occasional jog, or maybe you are a fitness enthusiast who likes to challenge yourself. Whatever your motivation, running a marathon is a huge accomplishment that requires dedication, discipline, and preparation. But what if you […]