Whether you completed a marathon or embarking on your first, the experience is monumental. We consulted with ultramarathon runner, Dean Karnazes to provide essential tips for first timers!
Karnazes is a native of Los Angeles, California. In 2007 TIME magazine named him as one of the “Top Influential People in the World.” He’s respected among the running world due to his endurance and how he inspires other runners.
Dean Karnazes
Wired magazine called him, “The Perfect Human,” and Mens Fitness said, “He might just be the fittest man on the planet.” If you’re still wondering why he’s a big deal, imagine running 135 miles nonstop in Death Valley in 120-degree temperatures. What about running 350 miles without rest or running a marathon in the South Pole in negative 40 degrees?
Karnazes is in competition with himself, and in 2006 he ran 50 marathons, in 50 states, in 50 consecutive days, finishing with the NYC Marathonwhich he completed in three hours flat.
photo courtesy of NYC Marathon Results
Career Highlights
- Overall Winner, 4 Desert Race Series, 2008
- Competitor magazine Endurance Athlete of the Year Award: 2008, 2006, 2005
- ESPN ESPY Award Winner, “Best Outdoor Athlete”, 2007
- Ran 50 Marathons, in 50 States, in 50 Consecutive Days, 2006
- Winner, Vermont Trial 100 Mile Endurance Run, 2006
- Winner, Badwater Ultramarathon(135 miles, 217km) across Death Valley in 120 degrees, 2004
With all his accolades, Karnazes remains passionate about running and willing to help his fellow runners. The ultramarathon man agreed to speak with us, providing tips for first time marathon runners.
1) What is your advice to anyone training for their first marathon and ultramarathon?
Along with logging enough base miles, I would also suggest cross-training to help build strength and prevent injury. If you’re training for your first marathon, I would recommend running a few half-marathon as training runs. If you’re running an ultra, I say sign up for a couple of marathons for conditioning and training.
2) What’s types of food should runners consume while training?
When it comes to food and nutrition, I say: “listen to everyone, follow no one.” We are all an experiment of one and what works for me may not work for you. Try different things during your training to see what works best for you.
3) What should first time runners expect the day of the marathon?
Lot’s of pain and suffering. (laughter) Besides that, plenty of nervousness and apprehension, like: “What the hell did I get myself into?” (more laughter). Honestly, there will be both of these things and a first time marathoner should be prepared for them.
4) What are your tips on post marathon recovery?
Ice baths go a long way toward reducing inflammation and helping speed recovery. I also suggest drinking lots and lots of water. Finally, compression helps, too. So get some good compression tights.
5) When is it ok to begin running post marathon?
The next day. Seriously, I recommend “active recovery” by going out and running (okay, shuffling) for a few miles the day after the marathon. It will help stimulate the muscle and rid some of the metabolic byproduct created from running a marathon.
For more information on Dean Karnazes, check out his websiteUltramarathonman.com
Check out Dean Karnazes publications at Amazon.com
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Related articles
- How to Run Over Fear and Take Action: Advice From Dean Karnazes (huffingtonpost.com)
- Running quotes by a UltraMarathon Runner(fitinspire.wordpress.com)
- Book Review: Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes(kararuns.com)
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