Anyone can run a marathon. Let me explain—I’m in my late thirties, not terribly athletic, and, after having two children, let’s just say I’m not a size six. I say this so that as you read this series, you understand that I’m not one of the elite runners that you may see on the cover of Runner’s magazine. Also, I do not proclaim to have any professional advice, just what I’ve learned from running/walking my first marathon. With that said, choosing a marathon and training for it is so exciting!
What type of marathon are you willing to train for? Will it be a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon or a full marathon? This is a personal decision and from my own experience, I went for the gusto and decided to do a full marathon my first time out the gate. Would I do it again that way? Absolutely! Know your limits and go for it!
Finding a marathon that you will be thrilled about is essential. Choose an exotic location, a marathon that benefits a cause, or a marathon in a central location so that you can meet up with a friend or family member and enjoy a mini vacation. It’s something that you may only do once, so make it worth your while. To help with making your decision check out these Web sites: active.com and marathonguide.com.
There are many sources of training, so review all the training programs available to you and adapt which type works best for you; such as individual, private trainer, or group training. For my first marathon, I chose group training—it was a good way to get information and motivation, and it helped benefit an organization. However, this time I’m choosing to do it with my Mom. We’ll be training from a distance but we’ll be on a similar schedule so that we can track and encourage one another. There are many sources of training but here are a couple of internet sources I’ve used: jeffgalloway.com, halhigdon.com, and runnersworld.com. Also, choose the level that you will be most comfortable with, whether running, run/walking, or walking as you will be doing this activity for many, many weeks. Be honest with yourself!
I’m beginning my training at the end of this month for the Nike Women’s Half Marathon in San Francisco in October with my Mom. This marathon benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and it’s one of the most enjoyable weekends of women empowering one another. I will be using Jeff Galloway’s training format for running/walking and my mother will be doing the same, but training as a walker. I hope you will join us on our journey. I look forward to hearing about yours.
