Training tips with Boston in sight!

I have to say before you read on that I do not recommend this plan!! Read at your own risk!

Thinking of tapering for a marathon? 

Taper Schmaper - Taper? You've got to be kidding? You want to lose that
finely tuned conditioning you worked so hard for? That rapid leg
turnover? Cut back? No way. Keep that consistent training going right up
until a day before the race and to gain that psychological edge that you
can go the distance - - it's always a great idea to do your last long
run a few days before the marathon. This just reinforces that you've got
what it takes. Don't worry about "dead legs" come race day, as
adrenaline and fan support will overcome that.

Speedy Start - The key to a successful start is to place yourself as
near to the front as possible. You want to get caught up in the faster
pace of the elite runners and make certain you eclipse your planned pace
per mile by a minute or so in those first few miles. This way you'll
already be well ahead of your goal target and the mental boost you'll
receive is immeasurable. Don't even think about negative splits. Just
get as far ahead as quick as you can and the stimulus of the race will
keep you going.

Bathroom Discipline - Let's talk anatomy. You drink fluids; you
eventually have to expel. Do you want to have to stop for a port-a-potty
at mile 18? I think not. The best way to avoid this is to forego all
fluid offered at the various aid stations. You won't waste valuable time
by slowing down to grab a drink and if you're really thirsty they'll be
plenty of fluids available at the finish line. That's incentive to get
going.

Coffee Combustion - Give yourself a great big kick-start. If you're a
regular drinker then simply quadruple your normal intake. If you're new
to the caffeine connection then three cups will do you just fine. Don't
worry about upsetting your stomach as that's a small trade off for a
good opening mile time.

Try Something Exciting - You've worked hard in preparation for the
marathon and should reward yourself with something new and special for
the race. Best thing would be a brand new pair of shoes or try a
different make of socks or even a new breakfast cereal. Maybe Bran Buds!
Mix things up a little for the big day.

Uphill, Downhill - If you encounter any hills you need to attack them
vigorously. Get into some oxygen debt. Sprint up them as fast as humanly
possible and then jog leisurely on the downhills. This way you'll get
the hill out of the way faster and be able to enjoy the slow pace on the
backside

Goo Riddance - Do you think Frank Shorter won a gold medal downing gels
or other goo's over the last ten miles? I think not as the only goo
Frank was familiar with in the 70's was Shoe Goo and you wouldn't want
to ingest that. Don't rely on a shot of strawberry banana flavored
pudding like food to get you through the light headed feeling of mile
20. Just close your eyes and plow ahead.

Post Run Recovery - Once you cross that finish line you deserve to
simply lay down. Don't expend any further energy and stop the strain
train right there. Just take a seat and let those lactic acid pools
build right up in your legs where they belong. You may be sore tomorrow
but let's just think about today.