Ep 221 Rise and Run Mailbag: Marathon Weekend Edition
Running Disney’s Marathon Weekend is equal parts strategy, joy, and logistics. The journey from early alarms to late-race grit begins weeks in advance. This episode covers training peaks, course intel, fueling, spectating, and mindset. We revisit the Galloway-style build for Dopey and the half. We explain why the big simulation weekend matters. We also detail how to taper without panicking.
The episode begins with an introduction from Brandy. If you’d like to introduce an upcoming episode, please reach out to us on our social media. You can also email us, or leave us a message on our hot-line (727-266-2344).
Listener Questions: Marathon Weekend Edition
The early alarms, the corrals, the castle, the finish line glow—Marathon Weekend is closer than it feels. We’re tackling the questions you’re actually asking.
Fueling at Disney sparks strong opinions, and the takeaway is simple: do what your gut trusts. Some swear by pasta at Enzo’s or Via Napoli, others stick to pizza or a burger with fries, and a few prefer fish with potatoes. Carbs don’t have to arrive in one giant pre-race bowl; many runners feel better spacing carb-heavy meals across two to three days. Snacks like pretzels and park fries add easy salt and calories, while hydration remains the quiet MVP. We trade notes on electrolyte flavors and the occasional trauma of a surprise change, and why carrying your own mix can calm nerves. That flows into the vest-or-no-vest debate: Disney’s courses are well supported, but vests can store fuel, socks, and layers if the forecast shifts.
Spectator strategy can make or break morale, especially for back-of-pack runners. We map clear routes: bus to EPCOT, monorail to TTC for early cheers, then back to the finish. For the half and marathon, TTC and Main Street deliver big atmosphere, while Coronado Springs near Mile 20–21 is a prime late-race boost where our cheer squad plans to gather. Transportation timing is crucial; race buses pause, resort buses may still run, and knowing that distinction can save a morning. Meanwhile, corrals invite a different planning mindset: beat the crowds on the first bus, grab short character lines, then meet friends near the bleachers and time the last bathroom break. Bring hot hands, a mylar-lined poncho, and a spare pair of socks if Florida skies turn unreliable.
Sleep and nerves haunt even veteran runners. We outline non-pharma routines: wind down early, use guided sleep meditations, and darken screens long before bed. If you regularly use melatonin, keep doses familiar; avoid first-time experiments on race weekend. Earplugs and cooperative roommates help; alarms, backup alarms, and even a wake-up call help more. On race day, early bus-goers find calmer energy. You arrive and breathe. You snag a character photo and gather with friends. You walk to corrals without rushing. Last-minute stress burns matches you’ll need at Mile 22, and this weekend rewards steady, unflustered starts more than bravado.
Course talk gets specific by preference. Some love the Contemporary-side entrance for the iconic MK parking sign. Others like the Grand Floridian approach for how it spaces early miles. It also trims Cone Alley. Either way, you still crest onto Main Street for that right turn toward the castle, one of racing’s purest moments. We also cover shoe choices. Wear what you trained in. Rotate pairs for challenges. Move insoles between shoes if needed. We also discuss weather math. Florida mornings often start cool and end warm. Pack layers you can ditch pre-start, keep ponchos handy, and accept that rain plus sun can mean steam. When it’s cold, heat your hands and head first; comfort climbs fast.
Mental game closes the loop. Break 26.2 into bite-size segments. Focus on each part: EPCOT loop. Then focus on getting to Magic Kingdom. Continue through the park and Animal Kingdom. Next, pass through the ESPN or Coronado stretch. Then make the final push. Count down miles instead of up, then aim only for the next marker. If you hit a wall, join a Galloway pace group. You can also run beside new friends. Talk, sing, or focus on music to reframe effort.
The Race Report Sponsored by Stoked Metabolic Coaching
Kimberley joins us to talk about the Rocket City Marathon Weekend. Kimberly finished The Hat Trick challenge by running the 5k, 10k, and the Half. The weather was challenging with 20+ mph winds. The temperature was 23 degrees. The Hollarhypes from Troy and Alli really helped her push through.
Remind yourself you don’t need to be a hero every mile. You need to be steady, smart, and patient. Trust the months behind you, the community beside you, and the finish waiting ahead. That’s the real Marathon Weekend magic: shared miles, calm minds, and a plan that respects the distance.
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