If you've ever trained for a marathon, you know that there's not much room for improvisation. Fred Urrutia, one of our testers at RUNNEA France, is an experienced runner with several marathons under 3 hours under his belt, and he knows that. For his next challenge, the Seville Marathon 2025, he has chosen to follow a strategy that goes beyond physical training: shoes rotation. He has opted for three Asics models: Novablast 4, Magic Speed 4 and Metaspeed Sky, each with a very specific purpose in his challenge. At RUNNEA, we'll tell you how and why this strategy can be the key to success in your next marathon. And we'll let you know that you don't have to buy 3 pairs of shoes, but you do have to buy 2.
You may be wondering if you really need more than one pair of shoes to train for a marathon. The answer, backed by science and the experience of many runners, is a resounding yes. Using different shoes for different types of training not only helps improve performance, but also significantly reduces the risk of injury.
When you run, your body experiences repetitive impact with every stride. If you always wear the same pair of shoes, that impact is consistently distributed to the same areas of the foot and leg, which can lead to muscle fatigue and, eventually, injury. By rotating between multiple pairs, you distribute that impact differently, which gives muscles and joints time to recover and adapt.
In addition, rotating shoes allows each pair to regain its cushioning and support properties between uses. This not only prolongs the lifespan of the shoes, but also ensures that you're always running in top condition, which is crucial when it comes to injury prevention.
Fred is well aware that long runs are the cornerstone of his marathon preparation. These workouts, which often last more than an hour at a leisurely pace, are essential for developing the aerobic endurance needed to complete the 42 kilometers. And for these runs, Fred has opted for the ASICS Novablast 4 for this marathon.
We like the ASICS running Novablast 4 for their excellent cushioning, provided by FlyteFoam Blast+ technology. This material absorbs shock very well on every landing and also returns energy to every stride, allowing Fred to maintain a steady pace without feeling like his legs are being punished by the asphalt. In addition, its lightweight and breathable design ensures that his feet stay cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days.
This model is an excellent choice for those days when the goal is to rack up the miles without worrying too much about speed. With a structure that offers stability and comfort, the Novablast 4 allow Fred to focus on his technique and maintaining a steady pace, knowing that his feet are well protected.
But not everything in preparation for a marathon is about long, leisurely runs. Quality workouts, such as sets and fartleks, are just as important for improving speed and aerobic capacity. For these workouts, Fred uses the ASICS Magic Speed 4.
Original price £160
This model is designed to offer fast and accurate response, which is essential when looking to improve speed. The Magic Speed 4 incorporates a carbon plate in the midsole, which provides additional propulsion, allowing Fred to maintain an efficient stride even at high speeds. This is key when it comes to working on running technique and the ability to maintain fast paces for long periods.
With the Magic Speed 4, Fred can push his body to the limit, knowing he has a shoe that will offer the support he needs without sacrificing speed. The combination of the carbon plate and FlyteFoam Turbo foam not only provides effective cushioning, but also propels the runner forward, reducing perceived exertion and allowing him to maintain fast paces for longer.
Finally, when race day arrives, Fred puts on the Asics Metaspeed Sky. This model is the result of years of research and development, designed specifically to maximize performance in long-distance racing. He has already used them in a couple of 10k races and mostly to get a feel for them.
The ASICS Metaspeed Sky is equipped with a full carbon plate and a FlyteFoam Blast Turbo midsole, materials that not only provide superior cushioning, but also significantly improve running efficiency. This means Fred can maintain a fast pace with less effort, crucial in the second half of the marathon when fatigue begins to take its toll.
In addition, the Metaspeed Sky 's streamlined design and snug fit ensure that Fred can fully concentrate on his performance without distractions. These shoes are designed for runners looking to break their limits on race day, providing exceptional traction and secure support with every step.
Although Fred uses a shoes rotation, it's important to note that having at least two different pairs is essential for any runner training for a marathon. A shoe with good cushioning, such as Novablast 4 shoes, is crucial for long runs and recovery sessions. On the other hand, a faster, more responsive model, such as Magic Speed 4 or Metaspeed Sky, is necessary for quality training and competition.
This combination allows runners to tackle different types of workouts with the right footwear, optimizing both protection and performance. In addition, alternating between multiple pairs prolongs the lifespan of each shoe, ensuring they are always in the best possible condition when you need them.
One of the biggest benefits of shoes rotation is how it affects running biomechanics. By changing shoes regularly, you vary your pressure points and movement pattern, which helps prevent overloading specific areas of the foot and legs. This is especially important to avoid common running injuries such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis or tibial periostitis.
In addition, running with different levels of cushioning and support allows the muscles of the feet and legs to work in a more balanced way, strengthening areas that might not be as actively involved if only one type of shoe were used. This not only improves performance, but also ensures long-term health, which is essential for continued uninterrupted running enjoyment.
Fred's strategy for the Seville Marathon 2025 is an example of meticulous planning. At RUNNEA we are fortunate to be able to try many shoes and therefore not have to buy them. But the idea is not to make you spend money for the sake of spending. We would like to help you and our advice and that of the professionals we work with, trainers, physiotherapists, podiatrists is to have a rotation of at least 2 shoes. A rolling, more cushioned and protected, and another faster option, which may or may not have carbon plate, depending on your tastes or needs.
shoes rotation is a proven strategy to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury. Following Fred Urrutia's example, any runner preparing for a marathon should seriously consider using at least two different pairs of shoes. This approach prolongs the life of the shoes, but more importantly ensures that each type of training is supported by the right shoe, optimizing both protection and performance.
In this case, by rotating between the Asics Novablast 4, Magic Speed 4 and Metaspeed Sky, Fred ensures that each type of training is supported by the right footwear, allowing him to maximize his performance and minimize the risk of injury.
For any popular runner preparing for a similar competition, adopting a shoes rotation strategy can be the step that makes the difference between proper preparation and a successful one.
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