So you want to run a
marathon?
As a two-time
marathon runner (and multi-time half marathon runner) I can assure you that
running those 26.2 mile-long races have been some of the most empowering
moments in my 21 years of life. Throughout both the training process and the
race itself, you learn just how strong and capable you are. As well as just how
much food you can slam. So here it is, the 12 things I learned about running a
marathon, or two:
1.
Sign up early. When you decide on a race and
press that “submit” button, you’re officially committed. No more dilly-dallying
or contemplating. Who wants to spend a hefty race fee and not follow through?
The earlier you commit, the less money you’re likely to spend. Skip that price
increase.
2.
Have a plan. Without a running schedule in place, you’re no good. Whether you
decide to train with a group or on your own, there’s a certain mileage you
should be aiming for each week. Have no clue where to find a plan? From
beginners to advanced, Runner’s World has
a variety of training plans to pick from.
3.
Give the goods a trial run. Try to train using your
marathon essentials, so that nothing comes as a surprise on the day of the
race. Water bottles, energy snacks, leg compressions, even your race-day
attire, give it all a trial run and determine if it’s a no or a go.
4.
Never miss a long run. This is probably one of the
most important rules. Throughout the week, you’re likely to become busy and
skip a run here and there — don’t fret. But when it comes to those long runs on
the weekend, find time. The long runs are crucial for adjusting your body and
mind to the length.
5.
It’s a mind game. There will come a point, or
many, during the race where your body feels tired, achy and like it can’t bear
another mile. You can do this. The point is, you’ve been training for this
26.2-mile race for months now. Your body is physically ready to take on the
challenge, you just have to get your mind on board. Remember to keep feeding
yourself positive thoughts throughout the run — come up with a mantra to repeat
over and over until you cross that finish line.
6.
Prepare to gorge. Seriously. It never failed that
about an hour after finishing a marathon, or even long training run, I’d gobble
down any piece of food in sight. Prepare ahead of time for the wrath of your
endurance-running self by stocking up the fridge.
7.
Study the map. Prior to the morning of the
race, take a good long look at the running route. Be sure to note the stops for
water, energy gels and the bathroom. This will allow you to prepare your run
accordingly.
8.
Mile marker 22. Have you ever heard of the
saying “hitting a wall?” Well that wall is very much a thing, and boy is it
solid brick. Regardless if your wall is at mile 22 or 24, it will feel like you
can’t go on — you can. Power through that mile, it’ll get easier.
9.
Embrace the spectators. The spectators will give you so
much momentum, regardless of what mile you’re on. Take their cheers, clever
signs and smiles as extra shots of energy and reminders that you’ve got this.
10.
Listen to your body. If something feels wrong when
you're running, don’t push yourself. This one has always been hard for me to
abide by. Learning to recognize the difference between pain from injury and
pain from muscle soreness lets you know whether to react with serious measures
or with a water break. If your body needs to rest, listen to it — this goes for
both training runs and the real deal.
11.
The blanket. Sure, the end of the race medal
is fantastic, but the blanket is the real prize. If you need motivation during
those last few miles, think of the fuzzy, warm race blanket that’s about to be
wrapped around you. When all else fails, do it for the blanket.
12.
Smile. During my entire first marathon,
I was nothing but smiles. Take in every second of the race — the runners,
scenery, feelings — it’s all exciting and such a wonderful, accomplishing
experience. Even during the moments when your body aches, smile at how far
you’ve come.
