How to run a marathon
(Post-race reflections)
The marathon was three weeks ago and the body is slowly falling back into place.
I can’t believe it’s been 19 weeks since I first embarked on this adventure. In the beginning it seemed an impossibility and it was with great trepidation that I began my training.
But. . . I have always wanted to run a marathon and with age 60 looming large I knew it was now or never.
I followed the schedule with the aim of increasing my mileage and endurance to the point where I could contemplate going the distance. The long runs became steadily longer - 60 mins became 70 then 80 then 90. Two hours loomed at the six week mark. The improvement was gradual and I tried not to think about the 36 kms that would be required at the end of week 13. While I learned to push myself just a little bit further with each and every run I still had grave doubts that my 60 year old bod would ever cope with 42.2 kms. The truth was, the runs were hard and I was slow.
At the halfway point I was seriously reconsidering my options. Frantically trying to think of ways I could bow out of this madness gracefully!
But I am more of a plodder than a quitter. And besides, I’d booked my spot. Paid my fees. Announced my intention to all and sundry.
So plod I did.
And, at the end of week 16 I plodded clean across the line.
Yahoo!!!
I made it!
This blog is a summary of some things I learned along the way:
Small thoughts on how to run a marathon.
Expect the worst and hope for the best
Many things will go wrong but there is bound to be a port-a-loo SOMEWHERE!
Remember - You are not alone
Contrary to popular opinion, running is a team sport. Accept all help graciously. You need people to believe in you, people to run with you, and people to hand you water in little plastic cups. You can’t do this on your own.
Don’t overthink it!
A piece of toast with peanut butter is all you really need for breakfast
It’s not rocket science
Running isnt hard. You just put one foot in front of the other - over and over again.
One step at a time is a cliche because its true!
There are no short cuts. 52,000 steps is roughly what it takes.
Have a plan
Make a list, book your spot and buy some shoes.
You will get there in the end - even if they’re gathering up the cones and closing off the bridge, there is still time.
Keep going - even when you’re knackered beyond belief.
Give yourself a break.
Remember - Big goals are just a bunch of small goals added together
42 kms is just 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 2 + .2
Your body is more capable than you think
(This is true even if you have neglected it for years)
A broken toe is not the end of the world
It is also not an excuse to stop training.
(Ditto - a sore back, a head cold and a hangover.)
When obstacles pop up simply go over, under or around them.
(The same goes for potholes.)
Appreciate the view and take the time to chat.
You never know who you will meet along the way.
You are tougher than you think.
It’s all in the mind.
A 60 year old body is not on its last legs.
People are kind.
Life is good.
A camelbak is an acquired taste.
Core exercises are optional.
Keep track of your progress
Celebrate regularly.
Go shopping -
Buy a cap.
Don’t let weather put you off.
You can run in the rain.
And hail. . . . and snow . . but running in the heat is hard work.
It will all work out in the end
If you get lost someone will find you.
If you get wet someone will dry you.
If you get thirsty . . . there’s always some kind soul who will share their drink bottle
Stay hopeful
There is light at the end of the tunnel. And, if you’re lucky, something nice to eat.
Don’t compare yourself with others
There is always someone older than you. Younger than you. Faster than you. Maybe even slower than you.
Keep going.
Other random thoughts
Running on your toes will get you up the hills.
Keep going.
Aucklanders are more hospitalble than you think.
Running over the harbour bridge is cool.
You might lose some weight. . . but you will probably put it straight back on again.
Keep going.
Eating is definitely not cheating.
There will be good days and bad days.
But all days will be ‘running’ days.
Keep going.
Run everyday.
Make friends with other runners.
Keep going.
Pleasure comes in many forms and sometimes involves some pain.
Delayed gratification is the best kind.
Keep going.
Bananas are the perfect food.
But so are hot salty chips.
Take Metamucil sparingly
An umbrella is useful but not in the running sense.
Blogging helps.
Keep going.
Singlets look better on the young.
Shoes are shoes, socks are socks. But sports bras come in all shapes and sizes.
One final thought. . .
Even if you’re very slow.
It pays to give the run a go!
Good luck!
And go well!
Comments
Post a Comment