The start of this week marks the back half of Chicago Marathon training (WOT?!) - your very own EDGE Coaches weigh in on how to slay the second half and toe that starting line as your best version yet:
COACH DAN – ACCOUNTABILITY BREEDS CONSISTENCY
Keep each other accountable. Consistency is super important this second half. Check out Pat & Sarah’s idea of having an “Accountability Buddy” (featured on Coach Quip). Missing a key workout only makes the next one that much harder. Respect your body (and mind) by staying as consistent as possible. Don’t surprise it with big jumps in volume or intensity because you skipped a bunch of key workouts and expect to perform.
COACH SHAWNA – STRENGTH IS KING
Keep up the strength. Don't start omitting sessions because the miles are building. Strength is what's going to keep you strong and carry you through the long miles. If you're short on time, mini band sessions are a quick way to sneak in some strength, and even quicker is using it as your pre-run warm-up to get those buns firing!
COACH BECCA – BE YOUR OWN BFF
Be your own best friend — there will be days that don’t go as you plan, workouts you miss, things will feel hard. You can either be self-critical or self-compassionate. Treat yourself like you would treat your best friend when they’re going through a tough spot. Be compassionate, supportive and kind to yourself. Self-compassion leads to greater long-term physical and mental growth.
COACH KATIE – FOCUS ON YOU
Prioritize YOU during this build!! Things that help you work toward your goal! Say no to things that don't bring joy/serve you, and YES to good food, hydrating, extra sleep & recovery! Start to visualize race day, and make sure you have all the things you need for success dialed in...race day clothing/shoes/nutrition/
COACH MATT – PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Treat your long runs as practice-rehearsal for the main race/event. Experiment and fine tune nutrition, hydration, shoes and gear. Practice builds confidence and having a tried and true routine will help you maintain focus.
COACH JRHO - HONE IN ON NUTRITION
Make sure you’re dialing in your nutrition! Start practicing that pre race, race day, and recovery routine and fine tune what you’re eating overall.
COACH ROBYN & COACH JOSH - THE WHEN AND HOW OF RECOVERY
Halfway thru the weeks, but the majority of mileage is ahead of us! Which means it’s time for your Recovery Game to be strong. Plan out what you need to do after speed/tempo/long run days to maximize your fitness deposits and minimize risk of injury. Blocking off the time on your calendar means it’s more likely to get done (pro tip- EDGE Members can make reservations for the recovery tools like ice bath and boots!) Sunday yoga is a great opportunity to get your stretch on 
(pssst - EDGE class schedule here)
As I trained for the Rio Paralympics, EDGE was the perfect place for me to recover in between my grueling workouts so I could perform my best day after day. It all paid off when I earned a bronze medal in Rio! Whether it's for bike, run or strength training, recovering in a pair of recovery boots, drinking a cup of coffee or chatting with the members about their past and current races, it is one of my favorite places to go - EDGE Athlete Lounge has become my second home!
I use EDGE for both training and recovery… having the Woodway treadmills and a room to do weights and other-related strength exercises when I need them is very helpful and convenient. Without question, utilizing EDGE on a consistent basis has helped me stay injury-free. In fact, as someone who has a history of being injured, since joining EDGE, I have yet to experience a significant injury. I attribute that largely to having ready access to state of the art recovery tools that EDGE provides its members with.
I will be racing the Boston Marathon in April, a race in which I am targeting a sub-2:30. Bearing that Boston goes according to plan, I intend on attacking a 2:25 clocking at the 2017 Chicago Marathon! Furthermore, I am planning on breaking 15:00 in the 5K and 1:09 in the half-marathon
EDGE helped me fight my way to the title of North American Cycle Courier Champion in 2016 and I’ve got 2017 in the crosshairs. As a full time bike messenger and a professional cyclist, my schedule allows very little time to give my muscles a break. The amazing staff and facilities at EDGE have allowed me to give my body the much needed recovery it needs between rides and have helped me ride farther, ride harder, and ride stronger than ever before. Fresh legs TRULY bring FAST TIMES!
