We caught up with Tyler a couple of weeks back, following on from our last catch up (read Part 1). Now, with just over one week to go before the big day, Tyler shared how he approached the final four weeks of his training - a period where excitement builds, doubts creep in, and every run starts to feel that little bit more significant.
Counting Down the Days
“With 4 weeks to go I’m feeling nervous, excited and just raring to go,” Tyler says. “I’m counting down the days until race day.”
Long runs are starting to feel different now - not just physically, but mentally too.
“I find myself thinking about what the crowds are going to be like. I’m really excited for that.”
Physically, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing.
“The body is okay, but I’ve had a few niggles with my right calf. I’ve had to take 10 days of rest twice because of the pain.”
Despite that, he’s pushing forward.
“I did a 20k run last night with no issues, so I’m soldiering on.”
Adapting the Plan
Like many first-time marathon runners, Tyler’s training hasn’t gone exactly to plan.
“At the start, I wanted to do four runs a week. That became three, and now I’m down to two because of my calf.”
Rather than forcing it, he’s adjusted.
“Now I focus on one long run and one recovery run each week. I think I pushed too much earlier on with intervals, long runs, and short runs.”
It’s a shift that reflects a bigger lesson - knowing when to pull back.
Staying Focused on the Start Line
Right now, Tyler’s priority is simple:
“I’m focusing on getting to race day without injury, to be honest.”
That said, there’s still a personal target driving him.
“My dad ran it in 2000 and finished in 3:45. I’d love to beat that and do 3:44.”
Before then, there’s one more milestone he wants to hit.
“If I can get up to a 28k long run, I’ll feel a lot more confident for race day.”
Progress Worth Celebrating
Looking back, the progress is undeniable.
“I’ve seen a massive progression in my fitness. When I started, I never thought I’d be able to run 10k in training - never mind hitting 20k.”
More than anything, it’s his consistency that stands out.
“I’m proud that I’ve stuck at it and not given up, even when it’s been tough - especially with my Ulcerative Colitis.”
Managing Fatigue and Recovery
At this stage, recovery is just as important as training.
“I’m making sure I’m getting plenty of sleep, taking in the right nutrients, and eating properly - especially carbs after long runs.”
He’s also learnt when to rest.
“At the start, I’d sometimes run the day after a session. I’ve learned not to do that now. Rest in between runs is key.”
The Taper in Sight
With the taper approaching, Tyler isn’t hiding his excitement.
“100% - I can’t wait for the taper,” he laughs.
But he’s also aware that it’s not time to switch off.
“It’s still an important period. You can’t just think the work is done and turn up on race day.”
The Importance of Comfort
When it comes to kit, Tyler has learned that comfort is everything.
“The Nike shorts Run4It supplied have been amazing. They’re much better than the long gym shorts I used to run in - they caused discomfort and distracted me.”
He’s also found a favourite layer.
“I love the quarter zip I was given. It’s so comfortable, and you feel good in it.”
For Tyler, it’s about more than just performance.
“Comfort and quality are key - but you want to look good running too, don’t you?”
Looking Ahead to Race Day
As race day edges closer, there’s one concern lingering in the background.
“My biggest worry is my calf giving up on me and not being able to hit that 3:44 time.”
It’s a goal that clearly means a lot - but he’s keeping perspective.
“I’d be gutted not to go under four hours. But at the same time, just completing the marathon is a massive achievement.”
The miles have been logged, and the journey has been full of challenges, adjustments, and progress.
Whether it’s chasing a time goal or simply crossing the finish line, one thing is certain - Tyler’s already come a long way.
