I'm running my first marathon in 2 1/2 weeks, and am very concerned about some details.
My tune up races in the buildup (near 5k/8k) Prs tell me I'm in shape, and that my goal pace is not unreasonable. In fact, my "A" goal is 5-8 minutes slower than predicted by Daniels, McMillan, etc...
I question the number of long runs I did (14,15,17,18,19,20,24, 16, 20,17), but it is too late to change anything.
I thought if things went perfect,550 would be my goal pace, now I'm honing in on 600 pace. It isn't the pace that concerns me, it is the logistics of hydration and nutrition.
I have 3 1:13 HMs, and I was slowed for the last portion (2-4 miles) in each to keep cramping under control. In my Last 20 miler, I cramped for the last 5 miles.
The race I'm running offers no special tables. The first aid station is at mile 3 and then every 1.5 miles thereafter. Initially my plan was to take electrolyte tablets at the beginning, then pound gatorade for the first half, switching to water late if my stomach was upset.
Now I'm considering wearing some sort of hydration belt so that I can drink an electrolyte solution with no sugar, in addition to course supplied gatorade.
What has worked for htose of you that had cramping issues in the past?