How Physical Therapy Powers Marathon Training, Part 4

PT
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Maintaining Health in the Final Push 

Be sure to maintain your health in the final stretch. The last 6–8 weeks can be the most demanding — mileage is high, fatigue builds, and small issues can snowball.

High-mileage risks can increase stress fractures, tendon inflammation and also immune system suppression.

PT Check-Ins

A 15-minute form and mobility screen can catch tight calves affecting knee tracking,
hip drop leading to IT band strain, and asymmetrical stride caused by subtle weakness.

Tapering Smart

Reduce volume but maintain intensity in short bursts. This keeps your legs fresh without losing aerobic capacity.

Race-Day Readiness

Be sure to include these on the day of your race:

  • Mobility warm-up: dynamic leg swings, hip openers.
  • Joint stability check: single-leg balance test.
  • Mental prep: visualization, confidence-building.
Nutrition & Hydration
PTs often collaborate with sports dietitians to ensure glycogen stores are topped and electrolytes balanced — both critical for muscle function.
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