The Start Line. There’s something special about the quiet before a race begins — that moment when everything you’ve trained for comes down to one run. At the Erie Marathon, standing at the starting line in the crisp fall temps, I felt grounded, grateful, and focused. I felt ready to race!
If I’m being honest, it’s always more than “just another marathon” —the training is always a test of resilience, discipline and consistency leading up to race day. Today, I’m sharing what worked, what I learned, and exactly what I wore and ate to get through 26.2 miles for the 19th time!!
Overall, my race was not my best, not my worst, but everything I needed to kick off the fall season!
What I Wore on Race Day
I believe your race gear should be tested, in order to be trusted, and tailored to the weather. Erie was cool at the start and honestly felt great throughout. It warmed up a little on the second loop, with some direct sun.
Here’s what I wore from head to toe:
- Brooks Hyperion Max 3 Shoes: I’m obsessed with these shoes!! They feel light, breathable, and cushioned just enough for a flat, fast course.
- Socks: Dicks Sporting Goods – BASIC! I know. But. Zero issues.
- Shorts: Dicks Sporting Goods – LOVE these. Have worn this style for over three years. Pockets for gels, super lightweight, and stayed in place the whole run.
- Top: Run Well Be Well tank– Moisture-wicking and breathable, alive how this fits!
- Headphones: Shokz, they are theeee absolute best!
- Flipbelt: always wear this one, it doesn’t move with the shorts I linked above, I love it!
- Handheld: My handheld is ancient, so I linked one I would highly recommend!
What I Ate: Fueling the 26.2
As a dietitian, I always test my race-day fueling well in advance — nothing new on race day!
Night Before:
– Dinner: super simple, always spaghetti with a garden salad, and a bread bowl!
– Hydration: Water + LMNT electrolytes
Morning Of:
– Breakfast: Poptarts, yes haha, poptarts! LMNT, and of course coffee.
During the Race:
– Gels: CARBS gels– I am a HUGE fan of this brand, Ill save that for another blog.
– Salt Stick chewable tablets
– Fluids: Started with my LMNT mix, then gatorade and water once I ran out
What I Learned (Again): Trust the Process
Even after coaching so many runners and running multiple marathons myself, I’m reminded every time: the basics WORK!!
My Biggest Takeaways:
- Stick to your pacing plan. Erie is flat and fast, but it’s easy to go out too hot.
- Test your gear early. Comfort = confidence
- Fuel early and consistently. Always!
- Mental strategies matter. Mantras, gratitude, and staying present got me to mile 20 and to the finish!
Post-Race Recovery: Move, Fuel, Rest
After crossing the finish line, my focus shifted to recovery. Here’s what helped me bounce back quickly:
– ALLL of the protein!! Had two protein shakes post race, one on the drive back to the hotel, and one more after a shower. I wasn’t ready for food right away, protein shakes are my go to post race!
-Solid nutrition to follow all week- every meal contained healthy carbs & protein
– Normatecs whenever I could use em… the best feeling!
– Active rest: Walking with the dog and kids for several days post race.
– Hydration: Water + electrolytes are an everyday thing for me!
Want to Run a Marathon (or PR Your Next One)?
I help runners build customized plans that are individualized to your fitness, schedule, and goals — whether you’re chasing your first 5K or a Boston Qualifier.
Learn more about coaching with me at https://runwellbewell.com
Got questions about Erie? Gear? Training? Drop a comment below or DM me on Instagram @runwellbewell— I’d love to chat!
