RTTC #176 Is It Possible to Get Faster for Dopey 2026 in December 2025
Description
In this episode of Running to the Castle Dr. Ali answers a listeners question if it’s possible to actually get faster with 5 weeks left before Dopey 2026 race.
Dr. Ali dives into the nuance of yes, it is, and no it’s not, possible to get faster about 1 month before Dopey 2026.
She discusses aspects such as what has training looked like in the past 5 months leading up to this race, with the caveat that if you’ve done zero training it’s not going to be possible to make leaps and bounds improvements in the final month.
Though, she mentions that if training has gone OK and for runners who have trained relatively consistently and gotten up to about 14 or 15 mile long runs with steady mileage build up, and no pain, then yes it could be possible.
Dr. Ali mentions her signature Finisher Framework that she uses to get her Stronger.Faster.Finisher. clients across the finish line without feeling broken and breaks down the 3-4 categories she looks at when helping a runner get faster.
Learn more about Stronger. Faster. Finisher. !
Ready to cross the finish line stronger, faster, and prouder at your next runDisney race?
Get personalized support, smarter training, and strategies designed specifically for slow, back-of-the-pack or injury-prone runners who want to build a bigger buffer ahead of the balloon ladies, have time for character photos and energy to enjoy the Disney Parks. Learn more about the Stronger. Faster. Finisher. Program today and be the first to know when doors open!
Free Resources
- Follow me on Instagram @rundisneydpt
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- Check out FREE training plans for injury-prone runDisney runners on my website.
- Book a Free 30 minute Call with me if you're wondering how you should train and if working together makes sense.
Hi, I'm Dr. Ali
I've been running for 15+ years and been in the rehab space since 2012 when I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree. I get injury prone runDisney runners across the finish line without feeling broken.



