I'm running the Cape Cod Marathon next weekend, but haven't put in a good race since the Ollie 5 Miler on 9/9. I have, however, put in a solid handful of LT and MP workouts, and averaged 65 miles per week since July 1, peaking at 80. That said, now that I'm tapering, I feel like I need to get my turnover up a bit. Outside of the obvious injury risks of running at 5k pace, how much would a 5k 7 days before a marathon hurt my marathon, if at all? This will be my first marathon.
Well, first - you're the man if you put in a good race at the Ollie. Not many people did. My opinion is, a 5k probably won't hurt you, but it definitely won't help you. Considering that you've probably put in months of training for this peak race, why risk it? Especially considering that you're almost definitely not going to run a great 5k right now. If you want to do some turnover work, do some light strides. Personally I would advise spending your last few workouts to beat marathon pace into your legs. Good luck at Cape Cod!
Thanks, it wasn't a fast time at Ollie but I beat several guys I'd been gunning for throughout the entire GP Series and did set a 5 second PR. Given the conditions, I considered it a success. Yeah, more MP is probably a good idea.
I ran a 5 miler the week before NY last year, and while I don't think it hurt me much, it sure didn't help. I wouldn't do that again.
It won't help. Taper means taper. It sounds like you have done your homework. Wait for the test.
I would advise against racing a 5K. If you want to get the legs turning over, do an easy 5K and then do a handful of strides.
Good luck!