1) To run for the right reasons.
Unless you are 100% dedicated to running the race for yourself and no one else, any training plan will fail. Training for a marathon (or half) takes discipline, grit, and a pretty solid emotional core. So, before you embark on a plan, ask yourself: Why do I run?
2) Develop a mantra.
Training for a long-distance race is an emotional rollercoaster. There will be days when you want to shout from the hilltops "Hey world! I am a runner!" but there will also be days when runs just don't go as well as you'd like. Unfortunately, you gotta tough it out. Developing a mantra, or a short phrase that you can easily repeat, will help you get through those rough times. Mine is an excerpt from my favorite quotation "There will be a day when you can no longer do this...today is not that day." I often chant "Today is not that day. Today is not that day" to help me power through rough spots. Pick what works best for you, and don't be afraid to use it!
3) Be physically and emotionally ready for a little pain.
No, training for a marathon (or half) isn't as crazy or painful as non-runners think it would be, but that doesn't mean it's a walk in the park, either. Expect cramps. Expect (some) stomach upset. Expect to embrace the powers of icy-hot. Expect to have some tears. But, despite what Johnny Cash may say, do not focus on the pain. Focus on the finish line.
4) Prepare yourself for non-running activities during the race.
It is crucial that you mentally prepare for your race. Make sure all those "what ifs" are asked weeks before the big day, or you will have insomnia for days leading up to the race. Think about things such as hydration strategy, stretching, and even what to do if you need to go to the bathroom (note: the following is only acceptable if you're an elite runner!)
And please, oh please, don't be this person:
5) Never give up.
Even if aid stations are closing around you, even if you are walking, even if you are the last person to cross the finish line... you will never forgive yourself if you quit. Remember..."Pain is temporary; quitting lasts forever."
And when that fateful day comes, you will cross that finish line a little stronger, a little wiser, and a lot more able to tackle anything life throws at you.
You are about to embark on one hell of a journey. Good luck!
Great post. Perfect timing since many of us are beginning out training programs. The guy in the wheelchair, how inspiring.
ReplyDeleteHi Frayed
ReplyDeleteThis is truly a great post and you have hit on so many great things. As runners and marathoners/half marathoners we will be up against something that so few people will ever even attempt. And when we do accomplish this goal, it will change us forever and make us better able to cope with all that life brings with it.
Thanks again.
Great post! Still disturbed by the peeing video, but at least that answers one nagging question I've always had about elite marathoners. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for a great post.
ReplyDeleteGood luck to you. Here's hoping you have an uneventful training and marathon experience from the injury perspective!
ReplyDeleteThat was a great post! It took me a second to realize what Paula was doing though. I really like your number 1 - I think that's so important...!!
ReplyDeleteGreat post and videos, the end of Boston especially.
ReplyDeleteAhhhhh these were good ones chica! I'm surprised she even stopped to pee. Why not just let it roll down your leg while running? LOL
ReplyDeleteThis is an AWESOME post! #4 hits home for me. During my half trainng, I never even considered training in the rain... and when the race arrived, it was TORRENTIALLY downpouring and I was petrified. (But, I managed.)
ReplyDeleteFantastic.
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool post and so many great things to remember for the next 16 weeks. Thank you for putting this up!
ReplyDelete