The absolute best, unbeatable advice for marathon running. You’re welcome.

In the last six months, I ran my first sub-three-hour (2.57) marathon and a sub-eighty-minute (1.19) half marathon.

In both races, I overshot my targets. For the marathon, I just wanted to get under three hours. For my half marathon, I was thinking 1.22. In both cases, I was faster by minutes.

Is there a secret?

Yes. Hold your breath.

Can it have something to do with the function of mitochondria? No. Mitochondria is awesome but I forget its exact role, without googling.

Tapering? Kind of, but no really.

Interval training? Important, but not the magic secret.

Mileage? Well, everyone runs some or many miles in preparation for the marathon.

No sex or masturbation before the race? That must be it, mustn’t it? Hm. No.

Cold shower before the race? No.

Shaving armpits and pubic hair before the race? Important for sure. Increases your pace per mile by a millisecond, especially if you’re hairy. Important, but not a deal-breaker.

Praying before the race and asking God to get under three hours? I haven’t tried.

Wearing a necklace with a small picture of Kipchoge? Definitely helps a little on mile 18.

Following a sub-three marathon Facebook group on Facebook? Gives your mental strength for…