Category: Marathon Blog

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 […]

Why Does My Throat Hurt After Running? Prevention and Remedies

Running is a great way to improve your physical and mental health, but it can also cause some discomfort, such as a sore throat. If you have ever experienced a burning, scratchy, or tight sensation in your throat after running, you might wonder what causes it and how to prevent it.  In this article, we […]

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 […]

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 […]

Marathon Tapering: How to Properly Prepare for Race Day

Marathon runners are no strangers to the physical and mental challenges that come with preparing for race day.  Months of intense training, strict diets, and a grueling exercise routine can take a toll on the body and mind.  However, even after putting in all the hard work, many runners still struggle with the fear of […]

Marathon Recovery Plan: How to Recover Quickly After a Marathon

The marathon is one of the most challenging and rewarding endurance events a runner can undertake. The sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing the finish line is truly unparalleled.  However, the intense physical demands of the race can take a toll on the body, leaving runners feeling sore, fatigued, and drained. That’s why having […]

3-Month Marathon Training Plan for Pros & Beginners

Running a marathon is a challenging journey. You could prepare for months and still struggle on race day. Most people (especially beginners) approach marathon training by simply running daily, but, it’s more than that. To win a marathon, you need a structure- a marathon training plan. And if you can spare 3 months before race […]

Marathon Checklist: What to Do Before, During, and After the Race

Are you gearing up for an upcoming marathon? Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step towards an exhilarating journey that promises to push your limits and test your endurance.  However, preparing for a marathon can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first one. There’s a lot to consider, from training and nutrition to gear and logistics. […]

Runner’s World Magazine features OC Half Marathon!

Runner’s World Magazine featured the OC Half Marathon in its article “Best Half Marathon – Run 13.1 Miles in these beautiful and fun destinations.” The article features Half Marathons with beautiful courses, fun after parties and exciting twists and turns. The OC Half Marathon received recognition for its “flat, fast course” and unbeatable waterfront views.  We […]

Southern California Half Marathons & Marathons

There’s nothing more exciting than running a destination marathon; however, sometimes the wallet and time don’t allow for it year round. Here’s a little calendar of local Southern California half marathon, marathon & 5k & 10k races to keep you on schedule for the OC Marathon Running Festival training!

Running Clubs in Southern California

So you want to run a marathon? Or maybe a half marathon? But you need to train. Training with a group can uplift runners and motivate you to stay on a consistent schedule. We’ve put together a list of running clubs in Southern California so you can find one that works out for you.

Where do Out-of-Town Marathon Guests Stay?

You have been working so hard preparing for this race. For months, or even years, you have been hitting the pavement, counting the miles, nursing your sore legs, annoying your running buddy when they don’t feel like running, and having them do the same to you. You’re registered, you have your race day shoes, you […]