Marathon
Amany Khalil: 10 quick tips for how to outrun the Pyramids Marathon
Amany Khalil, an Egyptian mother and wife who has found meaning and freedom in running. Starting in the US 26 years ago, she completed 19 full marathons and 2 out of the top 6 marathons in the world
She completed Boston, London, Chicago, New York, Berlin, and Tokyo marathons. She has completed her milestone, the Iron Man race in 2016, hitting the line in 13 hours and 11 minutes.
Amany has 10 useful tips for you, so take notes as you scroll through.
1. Weeks and weeks if training
Runners need to train before the marathon by about an average of 4 months ( 16 weeks), as running without training could harm your muscles and your bones, your body overall.
2. Plan your Pace
Runners could try tempo running (fixed pace) and interval running ( increasing and decreasing their speed throughout the run). Interval running allows for frequent muscle rest and helps the runner determine their favorable pace.
3. Eat what you need
Nutrition is very important, before, during, and after running. You need enough protein to recover your muscles.
4. Sleep well, Please :)
That point is overlooked but is very important to sleep well, as in early, for your body and mind to function at their best.
5. There is a first time for everything
A first-time runner can join the Pyramids marathon, they do not have to be watching the time trying to complete it fast, however, they can take their time and just feel the run.
6. Outsmart the slope
Dealing with a slope is important, as slopes are not easy for runners, beginners or advanced. Runners should take the slope in tiny steps, not exerting too much effort or energy. Running tiny steps or even walking the slope will be the best thing to do.
7. Take a - Healing - break
We stock up on protein. Using ice, or even getting a massage could really help. We must rest a few weeks before running again, and about 2 to 4 weeks before joining another marathon. Again, we should eat well, we deserve to eat. Some days you will not be able to go down and up the stairs without pain, but it all heals gradually.
8. Different kinds of runners... Same passion
Well, there are the elite runners, they are usually very well trained, and they join races for the prizes. Then, there are the amateurs, who are not as fast as the elite, but they are pretty good, and they mostly run for fun. Of course, there are runners of different genders and ages, however, people under 18 cannot join marathons, as their bones are still maturing. I hope that one thing in common between all runners is their passion, running is a tough sport, so I am hoping it’s the adrenaline that bonds all runners.
9. The Pyramids Marathon
When I first knew there would be a marathon at our great Egyptian landmark, I got goosebumps, although I ran in Rome, and passed by its ruins and the Colosseum. Running near the historic pyramid would certainly give anyone a great feeling.
The marathon could be taken in 10 km, 21kms, or 42.2 km (a full marathon). It is very important to fuel up on the in-marathon snacks, do not skip the stations, and grab a banana, electrolytes, dates, or whatever they have to offer.
10. Relish the Race
I want to tell all runners: pace yourselves, don’t go fast to avoid tiring yourself, and most important enjoy the race and embrace the scenery.