Training for the Brooks Half Marathon? Last year’s winner is here to motivate

As a professional athlete, Matt doesn’t mess around when it comes to selecting events that challenge him – and leading up to HBF Run for a Reason he’s competing in both Germany and Sydney before joining us back on home soil for the Brooks Half Marathon once again. 

So, what’s his advice for staying physically and emotionally fit for an event? Read on, runners. This oughta get you lacing up your Brooks!

When do you start training for HBF Run for a Reason?

I’m pretty much training in some sort of capacity all year round. I have two other major events leading up to HBF Run for a Reason: the Middle Distance Duathlon World Champs in Germany (26th April) and the Sydney Half Marathon (5th May). For me, this means I’ll hit HBF Run for a Reason in race-ready shape, with some recent events under my belt.

Normally for a stand-alone event, I like to have approximately a 12-week block of training leading into it. This is plenty of time to get super fit and head into race day confident.

Looking for more training advice? HBF Run for a Reason Half Marathon sponsor Brooks wrote a blog on that here.

Recording and reflecting – what’s your process?

I’m a big fan of using apps such as Strava to track my runs and my overall training. It’s a great way to track my process and make sure my buildup to a race remains a steadily progressive build! Also, it’s a fun way to make sure I’m running faster than all my friends!

Training in a group vs solo sessions – what’s your preference?

Running is better with friends! I’m blessed that the training group I run with is filled mostly with some of my best mates. This means I always wake up in the morning looking forward to going to training that day. I’d recommend anyone who is trying to enjoy their running a little more, to find a run club or a training squad – they are full of friendly people to push yourself with!

Why group exercise is magic for your mental health

Best advice when you’re feeling unmotivated to run?

Running with friends is absolutely the best motivator. The one thing I really miss when I’m away from Perth racing is getting to run with my mates, and it always gets me excited to come home and get back training with them. Likewise, if I’m feeling a bit flat while training while I’m home, having other people holding me accountable always gets me out the door.

Secondly, I have found that having a coach can be super helpful in motivating me to stay focused – so I get the hard yards done. Not only can they make sure you’re doing the right type of training, but they are someone in your corner helping you to become the best runner you can be and the best version of yourself. Big fan!

Best advice if you’ve landed an injury?

Injuries can suck. I’ve had plenty along the way and there is never a good time for an injury to pop up. Pardon the pun. The good news is I have learned that injuries can often be prevented by slowly building up your weekly mileage, doing some basic strength work, staying flexible, wearing the correct type of shoes for your running style, and recovering after your sessions properly.

How to choose the right running or walking shoesIf you do think you have an injury on your hands, seeing a physiotherapist as quickly as possible post-injury gives you the best chance of bouncing back as fast as possible, as they will curate a return to running program specific for your injury. It’s important to stay as positive as possible while your injury is healing, and often this time gives you a great window to do some cross-training - such as cycling or swimming, to keep your fitness up. Again, this will depend on the advice you receive from your Physio or health professional.

Time for a remedial massage on your next recovery day? HBF Physio can help

And finally, music or podcasts?

I don’t actually listen to music when I train – although I love country music – but I can recommend the WA Running Podcast (WARP) and The Casual Runner Appreciation Podcast!

If you do listen to music, check out how to create a training playlist with Brooks! Thanks, motivational Matt - and good luck this year!

Hot tip: The Brooks Half Marathon has a history of selling out! Haven’t secured your entry? Click here.