Avoiding Overtraining as Mileage Peaks

Written on 01/02/2026
Gero
As the Austin Marathon approaches and your weekly mileage climbs, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and push your limits. However, overtraining can quickly derail your progress and increase your risk of injury. Here’s how to recognize the signs of overtraining and keep your body healthy as you peak in your training cycle.

A man in a white t-shirt and plaid pajama pants sits on a bed, leaning forward with one hand on his forehead and a pained expression, capturing the struggle to overcome a training slump. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K1. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to persistent fatigue, soreness that doesn’t go away, trouble sleeping, or a drop in performance. These are all warning signs that you may be overtraining. Don’t ignore them—rest and recovery are just as important as your workouts.

2. Prioritize Recovery

Incorporate rest days and active recovery into your schedule. Activities like yoga, swimming, or easy cycling can help your muscles recover while keeping you moving. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and fueling your body with nutritious foods.

An open notebook with a grid pattern displays a handwritten, two-week workout plan, perfect for a beginner runner. Days of the week are listed, and a hand holding a pen is poised over the page, ready to fill in this runner checklist. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K3. Adjust Your Training Plan

If you’re feeling run down, don’t be afraid to scale back your mileage or intensity. It’s better to arrive at the starting line healthy than to risk injury by pushing too hard. Consult with your coach or use a flexible training plan that allows for adjustments based on how you feel.

A woman wearing a helmet rides a mountain bike on a gravel path, surrounded by green grass and wildflowers, with tall mountains and a blue sky in the background—embracing injury prevention strategies for the long haul. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K4. Cross-Train and Strengthen

Adding cross-training and strength workouts can help balance your body and prevent overuse injuries. Focus on core strength, mobility, and stability to support your running.

A child in an orange shirt drinks water from a plastic bottle outdoors, sunlight shining overhead and water droplets shimmering—perfect hydration strategies for hot days. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Proper hydration and nutrition are key to recovery and performance. Make sure you’re eating enough to support your increased mileage, and don’t neglect electrolytes, especially during long runs in Austin’s unpredictable weather.

6. Trust the TaperA woman in a red tank top and black leggings is running on a paved road lined with green trees, preparing her mind for race day under the clear sky. Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

As race day nears, your training plan will likely include a taper period where mileage decreases. Trust this process—it allows your body to recover and prepare for peak performance on marathon day.

Final Thoughts
Training for the Austin Marathon is a journey, and avoiding overtraining is crucial for making it to the finish line strong and healthy. Listen to your body, prioritize recovery, and remember that rest is a vital part of your success. Good luck, and see you at the starting line!