Berlin Marathon Preview: Coach Steph McGregor
Justin KentAthletes from across the globe are descending to the streets of the German capital for one of the fastest and most prestigious races on the planet— the Berlin Marathon. Among those toeing the line are fourteen Mile2Marathon athletes including our very own, Steph McGregor a physiotherapist and coach, who leads our Tuesday night group in Vancouver. This week we caught up with coach Steph before she touched down in Berlin to get an insight into her build, favourite workouts, tips on staying healthy and race day mantras.
First off, how’s training been going? Looks like you’ve been nailing some big workouts at Big Aus.
Pretty good. I had some achilles/foot pain that I was trying (and thankfully did) fend off during the big weeks of training so I went into every workout a little worried about how it would go. Thankfully with some adjustments from Rob and all my coworkers at Myodetox I was able to nail the big workouts so I’m feeling a mix of relief and excitement!
How has this build been different from marathons in the past? Do you have a favourite marathon session?
A little more volume and a little more variety in the weekend workouts and long runs which I really loved! I think there are the sessions I love because of the run itself and the sessions I love once they’re done because they make me feel confident since they’re so damn hard! lol. I love the lower Seymour run because it’s so nice out there and then the 3x6km workout is so tough but makes me feel a boost when it’s over.
It’s been awesome to watch you and Coach Carla grow the Tuesday night group in Vancouver! How’s the transition been into the coaching side of things, has it given you a new perspective on your own training?
Thank you! I LOVE IT! Tuesday is my favorite night of the week now:) And I think it definitely has…the things I tell my athletes are often the things I need to remember to tell myself! I also love hearing people having fun out there in the workouts and it reminds me that that’s what it’s all about. Having fun, pushing yourself and seeing what the result is.
You’re known to be seen around town (and on social) pushing your little one around with the stroller. How many runs a week do you get in with your little guy?
Hahaha yeah we make a good team:) I usually do 2-3 runs per week or around 20-30km with him. But he is getting so heavy (and bossy…he always tells me to hurry up lol) that I try to stick to the flats as much as I can.
Putting your Physiotherapist hat on, what are some key recovery tips you’ve incorporated during this build to stay consistent and healthy?
I’ve done physio, chiro, or massage almost every week this build to keep things rolling so that for sure! So I would say catching things early and staying on top of them so they don’t turn into injuries is really important. As well as consistent strength workouts 1-2x per week, nothing crazy or complicated but regular strength training keeps me healthy for sure!
Will you have any race day mantras for Berlin?
Relax, run strong and make yourself proud!
I also always think of every single person that has helped me get to the start line and believe in me when things get tough.
Lastly, what sort of goals do you have on race day?
I really want that sub 3 and I want to enjoy the day. I let my nerves get the better of me in my last marathon and this time I want to keep them under control as much as possible. I think the difference this time is that I truly believe I can do it!
From all of us at M2M we wish Steph all the best on Sunday! If you’re in Vancouver and looking for a group to roll with, be sure to check out our Tuesday night crew at Point Grey Secondary School.