Tapering is the final phase of your training — it’s when you pull back the volume and intensity just enough to allow your body to absorb all the work you’ve done. The goal isn’t to get fitter; it’s to get fresher. Think of it as giving your body time to catch up to your training. You’re letting the muscles repair, energy stores refill, and your legs start to feel a little spring again. It’s that fine line between staying sharp and showing up tired.

What it looks like:
You’ll run less, but you’ll still move. Most runners reduce overall mileage by 30–50% in the final 1–3 weeks depending on race distance. Workouts stay in the plan — but they’re shorter, with less intensity. You’re keeping the rhythm, not chasing fitness.

How it should feel:
You might feel restless or even doubt that you’re doing enough. That’s normal. The goal isn’t to feel fast during the taper — it’s to feel ready on race day. You want to line up with fresh legs and a calm mind, not drained from one last “prove it” workout.

Common mistakes:

• Trying to squeeze in one more big effort “just to be sure”
• Reducing mileage too drastically and losing rhythm
• Ignoring sleep, hydration, and nutrition while focusing only on mileage
• Panicking about “feeling flat” — that’s part of the process

Mental approach:
Trust the training. The work is already done. Use the taper to rest, organize gear, visualize your race, and remind yourself why you’re doing it. The quiet confidence that builds during this time is often what carries you through the final miles.

In short:
Tapering is not about doing more — it’s about doing enough to stay sharp while letting your body and mind be ready to perform. You’re not losing fitness. You’re uncovering it.