SHOW NOTES
Episode — Kinda Ready, Kinda Not: Am I Race-Day Ready?
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Welcome back to the Kinda Fast Podcast—the show where we talk running, real life, and everything in between. Today’s main topic digs into the big fall question: “Am I actually ready for this race?” We cover the signs you’re prepared, what to do if training wasn’t perfect, how to handle taper crazies and phantom pains, and the biggest race-day mistakes to avoid. If your race is coming up—this one’s for you.
In This Episode
- Main Topic: Kinda racing the clock — how to know if you’re ready for race day.
- Checklist: Consistency, key long runs hit, tested shoes/fueling/hydration, and realistic goal-setting if training went sideways.
- Taper Talk: What taper is, why phantom aches show up, and how visualization can help.
- Race-Week Nerves: Routines that calm you down (nothing new!) and embracing the excitement.
- Coach Dean’s Faith Angle: Zephaniah 3:16–17—God rejoices over you; He’s cheering, not critiquing.
What Does That Even Mean?
Brick Run — not actual bricks! In triathlon, a “brick” stacks disciplines back-to-back (e.g., bike → run) to train the awkward transition and running on “dead legs.” Coach Dean and Mitchell explain why it’s crucial for some athletes, optional for others, and how a quick transition jog after rides can build resilience.
Running News
- Sarah Hall’s Book: For the Love of the Grind drops April 21. A candid look at her 30-year career, longevity, and faith—available for pre-order.
- Sydney Marathon’s World Major Debut: Sifan Hassan wins the women’s race; men’s winner clocks 2:06:10. A whopping 4,000 runners earned their seventh star.
- Diamond League Final (Zurich): Noah Lyles wins the 200m in 19.74; Christian Coleman takes the 100m. Jessica Hull’s dramatic 1500m fade shows even elites can “hit the wall.”
“Anticipation is part of the journey. Manage your nerves, visualize success, and show up ready.” — Coach Dean
Race-Ready Signals (Quick Hits)
- Consistency: You checked the big boxes most weeks.
- Long-Run Milestones: Marathoners around 20 miles; half marathoners around 10.
- Tested Gear & Fuel: Shoes, gels/chews, bottles, and on-course products—no first-timers on race day.
- If Undertrained: Reframe goals to protect health and find a win for the day.
- Taper: 2–3 weeks of gradually reduced load; phantom pains are normal. Try visualization to stay sharp.
- Race-Week: Stick to routine. Nothing new. Lay out your kit. Control controllables.
Community Corner
- Pacers—A Listener Take: Rebecca shares how pacers help with route insight, steady effort, and mental lift—especially sweepers supporting finishes.
What We’re Training For
Travis: Track 10K in 39:29 (~6:20/mi) as a mid-cycle effort; eyes on a 3:05 BQ. Managing a bit of shin pain with a few rest days and course recon in Columbus.
Claire: ~31 miles this week with a reverse ladder workout and long run; dialing in race-week routine and fueling.
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