Rather than filling this time with last-minute tweaks, focus on doing a few simple things well. Here’s how to spend the final stretch before your race with purpose – and without overthinking it.
Stick to what you know
Now isn’t the time for change. Stick to familiar foods, regular routines and comfortable clothes. Whether you’re eating out or cooking in your accommodation, aim for meals you’ve had during training – ideally ones that are light, carb-focused and easy to digest. Keep your fluid intake steady throughout the day, and don’t rely on drinking large amounts the night before the race.
Avoid trying new supplements, stretching techniques or bits of gear at the last minute. If you didn’t train with it, don’t introduce it now.
Take it easy – but stay moving
It’s important to conserve energy, but that doesn’t mean staying completely still. A short walk, shakeout run or light mobility session can help loosen tight muscles and calm the mind. It also helps prevent that heavy-legged feeling that sometimes creeps in when you’ve rested a little too much.
The key is to keep movement relaxed. Focus on staying mobile and comfortable, not chasing any particular performance. Supportive footwear can help take pressure off tired feet while you move around the hotel or head to the race expo.
Prioritise comfort
Comfort is a word worth repeating over marathon weekend. Avoid long periods in unsupportive shoes, especially after travel or a walk through town. Many runners wear recovery footwear in the 48 hours before a race to reduce the impact of casual walking and keep the legs feeling fresh. Your feet have carried you through months of training – now is the time to take care of them.
A warm shower, fresh socks and a quiet evening with your feet up can do more for your race than any last-minute run.
Don’t over analyse
It’s easy to spiral in the final days before a marathon. You might start doubting your training, comparing yourself to others, or worrying about the weather. That’s normal. What matters is how you respond to those thoughts. Take a few minutes to visualise the start of your race. Remind yourself that you’re ready. And then try to let it go.
The final 48 hours aren’t about gaining an edge – they’re about staying steady. Rest when you can, move with purpose, and trust your preparation. And if you want to give your body a break before the big day, slipping into a pair of OOFOS recovery shoes might be the simplest thing you can do to feel better, faster.
