Ah, mid-summer. That sticky, sun-drenched stretch where marathon training starts to ramp up… right alongside the cookouts, weekend trips, weddings, vacations, and life’s general chaos.
If you’re feeling a little scattered, a little overheated, or a little behind—you’re definitely not alone.
This is the part of training where the physical grind collides with real-life distractions. Long runs feel longer in the heat. Hydration becomes a part-time job. Social events compete for your time and energy. Mentally? It’s easy to start doubting your why—or to feel like you’re constantly choosing between your training and your life.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to choose. You just have to get a little more intentional.
Here’s your mindset reminder this week:
This phase isn’t about perfection—it’s about building resilience. Every hot, slow, gritty mile still counts. Every time you lace up when it’s not convenient, you’re putting in deposits for race day. But you can train smart and still enjoy summer.
Try these mindset + time strategies:
- Plan your runs like appointments. Block them off on your calendar—early mornings, lunch breaks, whatever works. Treat them with the same respect you would a meeting with your boss or a friend.
- Stack joy around effort. Long run in the morning? Beach or brunch in the afternoon. If you’re traveling, bring your running shoes, but also let go of the need to nail every workout. Training can flex without breaking.
- Hydrate, fuel, recover. It sounds obvious, but this time of year can zap you quickly. Listen to your body. Get your fluids in. Don’t skimp on post-run meals or rest.
- Protect your peace. You don’t have to say yes to everything. Sometimes the best thing you can do for your training and your mental health is to build in time to do nothing. Recovery is more than sleep—it’s mental too.
So yes, it’s hot. Yes, it’s busy. But this part of the process—the mess, the sweat, the balancing act—that’s where strength is built. Consistency over perfection is what carries you to the starting line and beyond.
And remember to pause and appreciate the moments: the sunrises during early runs, the feeling of accomplishment when you shower after a hard effort, the summer breeze, the post-run iced coffee, the community. This season is fleeting—and full of beauty if we let it be.
You’re not behind. You’re building something. Keep showing up. Keep adjusting. Keep believing.
You’ve got this.