Running faster and further than ever before 06/23/11
For the past couple of months, I’ve been training for my first marathon, the SF Marathon, which takes place on July 31.
Funny thing is that the training itself has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. Sure, the long runs 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22-miles this Saturday, have been challenging. But I love being challenged — and there is nothing that compares to the feeling you get when you stop moving and your body slowly calms down.
The physical side of training has been epic. I’m working out or doing something active at least six times a week. But the training off the street — the nutrition and dedication to rest has also been rewarding.
Throughout the process I’ve had several milestones. I ran my first half-marathon trail run with a pace of 7 minutes and 45 seconds per mile in the freezing cold, pouring rain. I didn’t want to drive out to the East Bay that early morning — but I did. This past Saturday, I was off my game with regard to nourishment and sleep before my 20-mile run. Again, I didn’t want to do it — but I did. Yesterday, at the track, I clocked my fastest timed-mile ever, 6 minutes and 20 seconds. And I could have gone faster but they told us not to risk injury.
Training isn’t something you do for one event. For me, it’s a fresh lifestyle. I’ve already signed up for my next couple of half-marathon races this year and I am considering running another marathon still this year.
Like you, I used to hate to run. My shins used to hurt like heck. And I even remember when running three-miles seemed like a long run.
If you have ever had a goal to run a marathon — Just Do It. You’ll enjoy the entire process and perhaps find yourself enjoying a better quality of life.
This song inspires me when I run far and fast. Perhaps it’ll do the same for you.
