I've been going back and forth the past couple of weeks about running a second marathon this fall. See, as far off as it seems, entries for the fall ones I am interested in open next week, and they can fill up quick.
I'm torn because, I didn't have a great finishing time for my first marathon, and I want to beat that. Sure, I was suffering from bursitis, my foot started killing me during the race and ended up being a stress reaction, I could have all the excuses in the book, and frankly, I'm still thrilled a finished a marathon when three years ago I could barely run a mile.
However, I'd like to improve that finishing time, and feel that with my experience from training last year, I've learned a thing or two about listening to my body and how to prepare for a race of this magnitude and not end up injured (or at least AS injured).
That said, I also know how my body felt last year while training, and how shredded it was after the race.
I also know what a huge time commitment a marathon is, with planning long runs, and having to get them in, even if I'm out of town for a weekend or something, and the way it affects both Ben and I's social lives, which are very important to us.
Additionally, I worry that if I don't run a marathon again this year, I'll never do it again, because I'll never think I'll be able to again with further commitments and as my body reacts to having children in a few years.
The thing that is really pushing me to run a marathon again, is that feeling of finishing. It was worth every Friday night in bed at 9PM, every muscle ache and every insurance copay at the physical therapist to cross that finish line. I told Ben yesterday, I've never felt both so dead, and alive, in my life as I did while crossing that finish line, it was amazing to feel that I could really do anything if I worked hard enough.
So, here I am, going back and forth. I'm leaning towards doing it, and doing the Twin Cities Marathon, as it's economical, I get to sleep in my own bed the night before, and for some reason doesn't seem like it will be as much pressure (maybe because it's not the first one this time).
I'd love to hear your thoughts and what has made multiple marathons go back for more!
4 comments:
I think you just have to listen to your gut. If you really want to do it - do it! You know you'll have a huge fan base here to cheer you on and keep you going. Just do what your body is telling you and listen to that gut, baby.
I have a friend who ran a marathon and will flat out tell you she's never doing another one. It sounds to me like you're still in it. Are you doing it for the achievement or for the love of running? You've already crossed the finish line; nobody can take that away. Just don't hurt yourself.
just found your blog via the 60 days salad FB page...just wanted to point out...i have two kids and I'm running a marathon this fall. it will be my first. I'm not saying it's going to be easy, but even after kids, it's still possible. it's just a lot of early, early morning runs. ;) looking forward to following your blog!
I say "GO FOR IT" ... I am thinking about signing up for the TC marathon as well. Never having done one - it's a little more than scary. I wish the sign up times would work out so I could first run a half (scheduled to on April 30th) and decide post-run if I'm up for the full. Anyway, if I take the plunge - I will definetly be looking for you on race day (no undue pressure implied).
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