Racing with MAF training

by Gwyneth Wilmot
(Johannesburg, South Africa)

Good day

I’m doing MAF-only training 5 days a week training for a 50 miler. Started MAF training postpartum to get back into running while staying injury free and increasing mileage. I am however confused about how to race on race day? Stay in MAF zone? Increase HR up as the race goes on taking cardiac drift into account? Or run faster? Please help! Any advice will be greatly appreciated!!

Nicole's reply:
Hi Gwyneth, thanks for your question.

MAF training is for training so on race day don't get too bogged down with your heart rate although it is good to keep an eye on it. I wouldn't stress about your HR during the race but just make sure that you are running at what feels like a comfortable pace that will get you to the finish line.

50 miles is a long way so chances are that you will be racing close to your MAF heart rate to begin with anyway. With all your training, you will probably get a good "feel" of what is the right pace to be going. You will probably experience cardiac drift as the race goes on but stick to running at a comfortable pace and one that you can sustain. Best of luck with the race!