first marathon was seven months post partum and a huge accomplishment for me! despite that being as special as it was, I knew the bar could be higher. so, I chased a BQ and worked until I made it happen. curious how? ⬇️ 1. structured training not just “running more.” yes, time on feet matters! so do speed work, tempo runs, strength, and recovery. 2. I got a coach this changed everything. no more guessing. every run had purpose, every week had structure, and progress was tracked and adjusted. guess work being gone meant I was able to focus on what needed to be done and nothing more. (**I do not have a coach at this time - I fully program myself now as well as my coaching clients!) 3. strength training kept muscle on while building endurance. supported running economy, improved fatigue resistance, and helped me stay injury-free through heavy mileage. 4. nutrition dialed in ate to perform. prioritized protein, carbs, electrolytes and other supplements. gave my body what it needed. supplements I take daily and have for years: @drinklmnt (link in bio for a free sample pack with any purchase!), @renuebyscience NMN + trans-resveratrol + a handful of others - the remainder of what I take it all linked in my amazon storefront in bio. 🤘🏻 5. sleep + recovery wasn’t perfect, but I made it a priority. early nights, naps when I could, and smart recovery runs. 6. mindset I stopped doubting my goal - regardless of how big it seemed to me or anyone else. I started operating like someone who was going to qualify and that belief shaped everything. “plan A or plan A.” 👏🏻 #running #longrun #marathon #fitmom #marathontraining #fitover30 #girlswholift #girlswhorun