My Marathon Journey to 26.2 Miles
I am riding the high of finishing my second marathon. 26.2 miles of sweat, grit, and just a little insanity. Seven months ago, I decided it was time.
While you see the photo finish, behind the scenes, here’s what you didn’t see: months of training from early in the morning, to late at night, in the rain, in the heat, in between taking the kids to extracurriculars and working. I ran in different states and throughout the seasons. The exploring that you can do as a runner is a part of the reason for doing it. You see so many places running through your own neighborhood or exploring a new location.
So, why do it? To prove to myself I could. 10 years ago, I ran my first marathon six months after my son was born. I remember hitting “the wall” at mile 20 and agonizing every minute from then after.
This time, I was more prepared. I stuck to the training plan, understood the fueling strategy, and I wanted it so much more. My body is 10 years older and my life more chaotic, but my mind craved this challenge. For me, running is my safe place. It’s a chance for me to escape, think, and reset.
I am so thankful to my husband, Josh, for making sure that my long runs were protected on the weekends. He was always encouraging me and asking when I was going out the door for my run. He was there to listen to my never-ending stories about running, the good and the bad.
If you are thinking about running a marathon, here are some tips:
Make a plan and stick to it. Consistency is key!
Find the right gear. I love my Nike Air Pegasus and wear the same training gear in rotation so you know they won’t chafe as new gear can.
Fuel your runs. I use gels, but find what works for you. Take them every 45-60 minutes on long runs to keep your energy up.
Honor rest days. They are just as important as training days. And, trust the taper, a runner’s worst nightmare in which you are running way fewer mileage right before a big race.
Hydration is key. Drink up before, during, and after your runs.
Mind over miles. When it gets tough, remind yourself that you got this.
After your race, go home and rest. Your body will be sore the day after your race and you will be thankful for putting your feet up. Besides, you just ran 26.2 miles, you deserve to relax!
To all my other fellow runners out there, keep doing you. We may be running to beat our own personal records or just trying to cross the finish line, vowing after a race that was the last one, only to sign up for another one the next day.
I may have a battered black toenail as a souvenir, but I also have a massive sense of accomplishment and that is worth it.
Just like marathon training, achieving your communications goals requires a solid plan, consistent effort, and the right tools. Stick to the strategy, adapt when needed, and celebrate milestones along the way to cross the finish line with success!
