Charlottesville was recently rated among the top eight best running towns by Trail Runner magazine, so it’s no surprise that local runners are already getting revved up for the upcoming marathon this spring. Co-owner of Charlottesville Running Company (and recent national champion of the USATF 50-mile race), Francesca Conte, dished her tips for all types of runners, and especially for ladies.
Joining a training program is a great place to start. Conte says that training in a group takes care of a big concern for many women: safety. Plus, it can help you learn about nutrition. Especially during long distance runs, Conte says, “You have to start paying attention to your nutrition, before, during, and after your run.” The CRC program just got underway November 15, and Ragged Mountain Running Shop has an ongoing program you can join through mid-January.
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Francesca Conte, running champ and Charlottesville Running Company co-owner, says completing a marathon takes nutritional smarts and plain old determination. |
Consider going off-road. Conte says trail running can help prevent stress fractures in women runners. Starting in January, CRC hosts the Great Eastern Trail Run Series, which incorporates local trails into the training process. Conte’s recommended trails: Rivanna Trails, Old Rag Mountain, and O-Hill.
Work your way up to it. These races provide perfect practice leading up to the Charlottesville Marathon and Half Marathon: the Valentine’s 5K (February), the Martha Jefferson 8K (March), the Ukrops 10K (March), and the Charlottesville Ten Miler (April).
Stay the course. Conte’s most important advice? “Don’t give up.”—Julia Linden
