Inside Look at My California International Marathon Training Block - Seth James DeMoor

Aug 13, 2025

Intro

This is a quick summary of Inside Look at My California International Marathon Training Block from Seth James DeMoor. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workout today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points

The author runs a high‑volume marathon block (9‑week block) with weekly mileage ranging from 55 mi up to a peak of 101 mi.
Typical marathon‑training volume is 110‑140 mi per week, but the author’s block was slightly lower due to a busy schedule and recent altitude training.
The block includes three 26‑mile long runs, two 13‑mile threshold runs, and a few threshold/tempo sessions around 5:14‑5:16 min/mi pace.
The author emphasizes reflecting on the training load before race day and using that mental boost to stay confident.

Workout Example

9‑week marathon block (miles)
- 3 long runs: ~26 mi each (run at a comfortable, steady pace; last long run was 24.8 mi at ~5:14‑5:16 min/mi)
- 2 threshold runs: ~13 mi each (run at threshold pace, roughly 5:14‑5:16 min/mi)
- Weekly mileage pattern (example):
  Week 1: 30 mi → Week 2: 59 mi → Week 3: 58 mi → Week 4: 66 mi → Week 5: 73 mi → Week 6: 92 mi → Week 7: 101 mi (peak) → Week 8: 96 mi → Week 9: 55 mi → Taper: 16 mi

Practical Tips

Keep a weekly mileage log to see volume trends and avoid over‑ or under‑training.
Use a 15‑30‑minute pre‑race reflection routine to reinforce the work you’ve done and boost confidence.
If you can’t hit the exact mileage, adjust the long runs or add a short extra run (e.g., add 1‑2 mi) to meet weekly goals.
Feel free to tweak the paces to match your own marathon goal pace in the Pacing app.

Closing Note Give this marathon block a try—adjust the mileage and paces to fit your own training, log it in the Pacing app, and enjoy the process. Good luck and keep moving forward!