Healthy Runner Podcast
292. How I Conquered the Dopey Challenge Feeling Strong, Durable, and Healthy (2026 RunDisney Marathon Weekend Recap)
1h 32m
Most runners go into RunDisney Marathon Weekend just hoping to survive it.
In this episode, I share how I completed the 2026 Dopey Challenge, four races totaling 48.6 miles and finished feeling strong, durable, and pain free.
This is not just a race recap. It is a breakdown of the exact training, fueling, recovery, and race strategy decisions that allowed my body to handle four consecutive race days without breaking down.
You will hear:
- How I structured training after a recent marathon
- Why patience and pacing mattered more than fitness
- How I approached fueling and recovery across all four races
- The biggest mistakes runners make during RunDisney Marathon Weekend
- And what actually allows runners to finish strong instead of just surviving
You will also hear stories from runners in our community who conquered all 48.6 miles and experienced what is possible when you stop guessing and start training with structure.
If you are training for RunDisney Marathon Weekend, the Dopey Challenge, or simply want to run long term without constantly worrying about injuries, this episode will give you a clear blueprint for how to approach big goals with confidence.
Grab your FREE RunDisney Marathon Training Guide Here!
Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries… all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you!
Perfect for adult runners who want to:
- Stop nagging injuries
- Build a resilient running body
- Get faster and stronger
- Enjoy pain-free, consistent training
Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey!
Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode:
Listen to my previous episode on 6 Steps to Mastering runDisney Training
Listen to my previous episode on How to Prepare for RunDisney Marathon Weekend: 7 Race Week Essentials for Dopey Challenge Runners
Listen to my previous episode on my 2024 Disney Marathon Weekend Recap Conquering the Dopey Challenge
Listen to my previous episode on what to do after you sign up for the Dopey challenge
Watch how Sonya overcame her fears to finish her first marathon in Disney by getting stronger not only physically but mentally here!
Watch how Dipti went from chronic shin splints for over a year to running the Disney Dopey Challenge in 6 months here!
Watch how Stephanie went from IT band pain with every long run to conquering the 48.6 mile Dopey Challenge here!
A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!
Want to know what we recommend to our athletes during hard marathon training? We use EDGE Energy Gels from UCAN for those long runs!
Fuel smarter during a run with the best no sugar energy gel on the market delivering up to 75+ minutes of steady energy to power your best running performance.
Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire UCAN order!
Connect with Dr. Duane:
- Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner
- Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter
- Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community
- Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
- duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com
Listen & Subscribe:
