“Why would you do that?” It’s the number one question I get asked about why I would willingly run 26.2 miles. And one I used to ask before I started running two years ago. Why would anyone run that far? That long? Oh sure, it’s pretty cool to get the sticker for the car window and the race t-shirt, but clearly it takes more than that!
I think the answer must be different for everyone who chooses to challenge themselves in this way, but I firmly believe that anyone who achieves this only does so when they are crystal clear on their reason. Here’s mine: my whole life, I did not believe I was athletic. I did not think I had what it took to be an athlete. It was not in me. Then I did the Couch to 5k program, and discovered that not only could I run a 5k, but also that I love this running thing. So I wondered, could I do 10k? It turns out that I could. By then running was a part of my life. So, I set my sights on a half marathon. And with each goal I got a little better, a little stronger.
Even as I trained for that first 5k, I began to understand the kind of dedication, perseverance and sacrifice required to train for a marathon. It’s so much more than being physically able, and I admired that tremendously. But, was it in me? Last summer, I decided to find out and committed to run the Rock ‘n Roll St. Louis Marathon on October 21, 2012. Even before Sunday, I know the answer: Yes, it is. It is in me.
I’m going into this weekend with a bit of an injury. I strained my hip flexor, which meant taking the last week and a half completely off from running, along with receiving physical therapy. My body is not at 100%, but my mind and heart are. So injured or not, I’m going for it. I have to be realistic, though, and simply hope to finish this race. I am staying positive about my ability to complete this, but if I have to bail, it’s OK. I will get it next time because I know my answer.
Why would I run a marathon? Because I found the athlete I didn’t know I was. And that feels simply amazing.
Enjoy your weekend!
Good luck Jenn! I really admire you and anyone else who runs a marathon. I’m thinking of doing a couch to 5K next spring (too cold to run here in the winter!). My inner athlete has been squelched my whole life too…and she wants out 🙂 I look forward to hearing how it went!
Good luck! You will do great! 🙂 I’ve done two full and three half, in the midst of training for another half in November. I send you positive vibes and lots of strength!
Boy! I loved seeing this. I’m close to pulling the trigger and registering for my first full marathon. I’ve done two halfs, but my last one was Feb. 2011. I wish you good luck and happy hip flexors!
Good luck! You are a winner in my book just for trying, even if you don’t finish. I love your attitude and commitment – it’s inspiring!
Best of luck Jen and know you did great no matter what!
Good luck on your marathon!!!!! I went to a party for a friend who just ran her first marathon about two weeks ago. It was a dairy themed party as she gave up dairy during her training. It was so fun to hear all her stories. What a huge accomplishment! I hope that your body stays strong and if not that’s is ok because there is always another race to try again. 😉
Thank you, everyone! Hilda, release your inner athlete! Good luck with your next half, Jennifer H. Pull that trigger, Juli. I believe in you!