01/14/2026
Getting ready to conquer 26.2 miles in 2026? 🏃♀️
If you’re out crushing miles on the streets or at a local park, we have one word for you: SLOW.
It sounds counterintuitive, but if you want to cross that finish line on Boylston Street feeling strong, you need to master the art of the "conversational pace." Here’s why your friendly neighborhood PTs at Elliott want you to dial it back:
Why Slow = Pro 🧠
Build Your Armor: Running at a slower pace early in your training gives your muscles and tendons the time they actually need to adapt to the impact.
Fuel Efficiency: It teaches your body to burn fat for fuel more efficiently—which is a total game-changer when you hit the dreaded "wall" late in the race.
Cardiac Gains: You’re stimulating vital heart adaptations that only happen when you aren't redlining it.
The "Vibe Check" Test 🗣️
How do you know if you're going slow enough? If you can’t gossip with your running buddy about the latest friend-group drama without gasping for air, you’re going too fast.
Ideally, you want to stay in Zone 2 (about 60-70% of your max heart rate). If you can hold a full conversation, you’re doing it right!
This is just the beginning! We’ll be sharing more expert tips in our Marathon Training Series to make sure everyone prepping for the Boston Marathon and beyond in 2026 stays injury-free and ready to rock.
What's your favorite route for a "conversational" long run? Let us know in the comments! 👇
If you're interested in scheduling an appointment with any of our expert clinicians, click here to book an appointment online! https://bit.ly/3LNfBUz
