We are now less than three weeks away from the start of the 2019 Loch Ness Marathon and thousands of runners have been working themselves into the ground all summer to get ready.
But while a comprehensive training programme is key, the importance of tapering in the final weeks should not be overlooked.
We’re at a crucial stage for the Highland race because between two and four weeks before the race, runners should be cutting down their training.
It can seem strange and some runners fear that cutting back on mileage will harm their overall performance but actually, most endurance athletes believe that you won’t improve your performance by piling on more miles at this stage.
At best, you’re maintaining your fitness and at worst, you’re risking injury and not allowing yourself the proper time to recovery for the 26.2 mile test.
So instead of grinding yourself into the dirt these last three weeks, dial down the mileage, tuck into those carbs and rest those muscles.
Check out this guide from Verywellfit for an idea of how to prepare.
Loch Ness Marathon factfile
This year’s race takes place on Sunday, October 6, starting at 10am.
It begins on the high ground between Fort Augustus and Foyers, before dropping down to the banks of Loch Ness at Foyers.
From there, the route follows the loch’s south-eastern shore, heading north towards Dores.
From Dores, the race heads into the centre of Inverness, turning left over the main road bridge and left again for the last half-mile along the River Ness before finishing at Bught Park.
A 10K, a 5K and the Wee Nessie run for kids also take place across the same weekend. More than 8,000 people are expected to take part in the events.
