Pro Tips for Mini Training from Matt Ebersole

Running the Mini this year? Prep starts now. Here, the owner of Personal Best Training shares his tips.

Do you recommend any specific gear?

A Polar RC3 heart-rate monitor. There are so many variables, like hills, heat, and wind, that can affect pace, so your heart rate is a great indicator of effort. 

What about shoes?

I like the Saucony Guide 9. It’s a structured-cushion shoe that addresses my mechanics well. I’ll cover about 300 to 400 miles in a pair before trading them in for fresh ones. 

Where’s your favorite spot to train?

Eagle Creek Park is such an asset to Indianapolis. There’s minimal traffic and a lot of hills and trails.

What does a smart program look like?

It has to be gradual or injuries can happen. And it needs to progress. If you do the same thing all the time, you’ll stop improving, and it won’t be as much fun.

How do I avoid looking like a rookie?

Don’t wear too much stuff. Not every inch of skin requires compression—you don’t need to be your own personal hotspot.

How will I know if I’m ready?

If it’s April, and you’re comfortable running 8 to 10 miles, the Mini is a great idea. If that’s a struggle, I’m pretty sure the Mini will still be around in 2017. And there’s always the 5K.