Got a question about running? You’re in the right place. Every Tuesday, world-renowned coach, author and athlete Hal Higdon posts and answers athlete questions here. You can submit your question by joining the discussions on Hal Higdon’s Virtual Training Bulletin Boards.
QUESTION:
Any tips or suggestions to get over the Post Marathon Blues? I just did my first marathon yesterday, and I feel kind of depressed that I achieved a goal and feel like there is no reason to get out there and run anymore. I’m so used to following a rigid schedule for the past 6-7 months that I don’t know what to do next.
HAL’S ANSWER:
The Post Marathon Blues, also referred to as PMS for Post Marathon Syndrome is fairly common. You focus intently on a lofty goal for day after day, week after week, month after month, and suddenly that goal is snatched away. You can look back with pleasure, but what’s next in life? Do you think you can stall until January 1, when making a New Year’s resolution is an acceptable motivational tool? Or make a pre-resolution. In the meantime, use this period for some well-earned downtime. Consider also that there is a Post Marathon Training program that will cuddle around you for the next 5 weeks. After that, pick a new goal, which could be a distance or a destination. By the time you are that far past your marathon, you should be able to think rationally again.
