Xyzal® Marathon Running Tips
Fasten your shoelaces and get ready to run, we’re sharing five essential tips to help you stay on track during allergy season.
Stay on track when allergies strike
It’s important to find relief that works best for you. Xyzal® Allergy 24HR provides all–night, all–day relief so you’re covered for long stretches outdoors, whether that’s a steady run or a full day of movement. On days when allergies feel overwhelming, it’s okay to take the day off from running and focus instead on prehab work like mobility, stretching, or strength training so you can continue progressing without putting extra stress on your system.
Train smarter during spring allergy season
During peak allergy season, runners should pay attention to pollen levels and weather forecasts and align training sessions with conditions that set them up for success. On high–allergy days, deeper breathing during speed or tempo work can feel significantly more difficult, so consider bringing speed or tempo sessions indoors. Taking Xyzal® Allergy 24HR can help relieve symptoms through the night and next day, providing lasting 24–hour relief, which is really beneficial for extended time outside. Wearing glasses can also help shield the eyes from irritation. Most importantly, adjusting pacing and expectations when allergies flare can lower stress and support a more productive training block.
Navigate marathon day challenges confidently
Adaptability is key, especially during spring when conditions can change quickly. On race day, make sure you have any necessary medications with you, note what you’ve already taken on your bib, and familiarize yourself with the locations of medical tents along the course. That way, if you need extra hydration or assistance, you’re prepared and can act quickly.
Tune into your mind–body connection
Keeping the mind calm while running is essential for steady breathing, whether it’s allergy season or not. When a runny nose forces more mouth breathing, it can lead to dry mouth, so keeping fluids on hand to stay hydrated is important. Focus on long, slow breaths to help regulate your heart rate and keep both your body and mind relaxed throughout the run.
Be consistent with simple habits and have fun
No matter the experience level, consistency matters more than perfection. Listen to your body and give yourself permission to adjust workouts when needed. Swapping or modifying a session is far better than pushing through and risking setbacks. Prioritizing simple habits like hydration, sleep,mobility work, and realistic pacing will always have a meaningful impact on your training and overall race experience.
Why allergies disrupt sleep and impact next–day performance
Allergies can disrupt a good night’s rest in multiple ways. Sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, and runny nose often worsen overnight, especially when you lie down – and all night while we sleep, we’re inhaling allergens. Not sleeping well, even for a few nights, can lead to increased fatigue, low energy, and difficulty performing at full capacity the next day. Xyzal® offers over 24-hours of sustained symptom control, providing all night all day allergy relief. You can also allergy–proof your bedroom by using dust mite covers, an air purifier, keeping pets out, and windows closed during pollen season.
How seasonal allergies can impact marathon performance
Seasonal allergies can affect performance in multiple ways and, for some athletes – whether every day or a marathoner – can make it hard to perform at all. Allergies can make it harder to breathe efficiently and stay focused, and that can drain your energy during exercise. And because allergies often disrupt sleep with nighttime allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, runners may also start a workout already fatigued, making it harder to train or compete at full capacity. Taking a 24–hour antihistamine like Xyzal® Allergy 24HR nightly as part of a consistent routine when experiencing symptoms can help control symptoms around the clock.
Practical tips for outdoor activity during allergy season
If possible, avoid outdoor activity in the early morning hours when pollen counts tend to be highest. When you return home, wash pollen off in the shower and change your clothes so you’re not carrying allergens with you. Wearing wraparound sunglasses can also help reduce eye symptoms by acting as a physical barrier against pollen or other allergens that reach your eyes, reducing itching, burning, and tearing.
Start medications early and take them daily
When you feel the onset of allergy symptoms, start taking your allergy medication right away. Start taking Xyzal® at night for 24–hour allergy relief and use throughout the allergy season as needed.