Running News Daily

Emily Sisson is no stranger to the top of American distance running, and her performance at today’s Boston 10K proves she’s still very much a force. Clocking 31:42 to finish third, Sisson marked her return to racing with precision, patience, and perspective—traits she’s earned the hard way over the past year.

Resetting After the Olympics

Following the 2024 Paris Olympic Marathon, Sisson knew something had to change. Despite qualifying with the fastest time of any American woman heading into the Games, her Olympic result left her physically and emotionally drained.

“I didn’t feel like myself,” she admitted.

So she stepped away—not just for a short break, but three full months without racing or formal training. It wasn’t until March of this year that she started to feel like herself again. That time off became the foundation for everything she’s building now.

Closing the Track Chapter

One thing was clear during her comeback: she had no plans to return to the track. After years of excelling on the oval—Olympics, NCAA titles, and national records—Sisson is now fully focused on the roads. That shift has brought clarity to her training and excitement for what lies ahead.

A Home Base in Ireland

Sisson and her husband have a home in Ireland, where she often retreats for quieter, more focused training blocks. It’s become a key part of her rhythm—offering the space to rebuild both mentally and physically.

“I want to come back strong,” she said. “And I want to do it the right way.”

Learning Her Limits at Altitude

Altitude training is standard for many elite runners, but Sisson has learned to use it sparingly.

“I do benefit from altitude—but only for about 4 to 6 weeks,” she shared. “After that, I get too tired.”

In past marathon builds, she felt overextended by long periods in places like Flagstaff. Now, she prefers training at sea level with her longtime coach Ray Treacy in Rhode Island. That change in approach has helped her stay fresh and responsive heading into big races.

Eyes on the Roads

With her Boston 10K result in the books, Sisson is aiming for a full road season—potentially leading up to a fall marathon. She’s not chasing times on the track anymore. Instead, she’s chasing something more valuable: a career built on knowing what works best for her.

From Burnout to Balance

Emily Sisson’s return isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about evolving. From Olympic fatigue to rethinking altitude and stepping off the track, she’s found a smarter, more sustainable way forward. And if today’s performance in Boston is any indication, she’s far from finished.