First Marathon Count Down... One Month Left!

I’m officially one month away from my first marathon, and this past block of training has been… a ride. The first month came with a lot of growth and reminders, and the last 6 weeks have come with their own challenges—ones that tested not just my legs, but my mindset.

Here’s how things unfolded and what I learned along the way.

My first 40 mile week since college

Everything was going well until I hit a 40-mile week. I had a few long runs that were tiring but rewarding, but when I hit that 40 mile week, things took a dramatic turn. Almost immediately after, I started feeling shin pain. And not just any pain—the kind that brought me straight back to college, when tibial stress fractures were a recurring part of my story.

For a moment, I panicked. It felt like being pulled back into a place I worked really hard to move past. And like any injured runner, I bought new shoes thinking this was going to be the magic fix even though I knew better.

But unlike college, something was different. My mindset has grown.

Shifting My Approach Instead of Spiraling

Instead of pushing through (like I once would have), I pulled back immediately. I dropped my mileage but kept biking hard to maintain my aerobic engine. I reminded myself:

• I run because I enjoy it.

• My life is bigger than my training log.

• One race doesn't define my running career

  
  

Choosing perspective over panic feels like one of my biggest wins so far.

Getting Help (and Tweaking the Plan)

I also reached out to a PT friend for a second opinion and a little dry needling to calm things down. We reviewed my strength training plan and made some targeted updates, including:

• Single-leg weighted isometric calf raises on a slant board

• Double-leg pogos to promote bone density changes at my tibias

• Balance work using my Sidekick ankle board

  
  

These small changes made a big difference in how my shins felt and how confident I felt returning to running.

Easing Back In

I didn’t rush my return. I eased in with:

• Short walk–run sessions

• A run on my Lever to reduce load

• No speed work or hills until I completed at least one solid 60-minute run

My shins have been holding up well, and I’m continuing to be cautious with one month left. Conservatively building back felt frustrating at times, but I know it’s what I needed.

Adjusted Goals, Same Excitement

My original goal for this marathon has shifted slightly—not out of discouragement, but out of clarity. Training hasn’t been linear, but honestly, that’s part of what has made this process meaningful. I’ve had high points, low points, and plenty of humbling moments in between.

And here’s the surprising part…I genuinely enjoy marathon training.

Even with the rollercoaster of the 6 weeks , I’m already planning to run another one after this.

Looking Ahead

With four weeks to go, the goal is simple: protect the shins, stay consistent, and keep the joy front and center. My first marathon is getting close, and I’m excited—not just to race, but to see this whole journey come together.

You're Not Alone

One of the best things about being a PT who specializes in running is that I know what I need to do to come back from lows like this AND have the tools to do so (the second half is actually listening to myself haha).

If you're struggling with an injury or discomfort that is keeping you from giving your training your all, don't wait to get it taken care of. At minimum, peace of mind gives you the confidence to follow a plan. Schedule an appointment here and get to your goals faster.