So, for the past few weeks I've been toying with the idea of a marathon. I wanted something to really challenge myself and I've really enjoyed running lately. Then the New York Times's health blog took on marathon training in preparation for the New York Marathon. Then I started hearing people talk about running marathons. So the idea's been working on me for a while. I started combing the internet and reading all about marathons. It turns out there is a lot of advice out there.
Long story short, from everything I read I was persuaded that given enough time I could actually work up to a marathon. After searching out just about every marathon that wasn't on Sunday within a 6 hour drive of Knoxville and found myself two options. If I can be ready within about 6 months I can run the St. Jude's Marathon in Memphis on December 5, or if I need more time I can do the Nashville Country Music Marathon (yeah, I know) on April 24.
So . . . I'm gonna do it. I'm officially declaring my marathon candidacy right here on this blog today. I think I'll decide which marathon to run by about August. I want to give myself plenty of time to get ready without injuring myself.
Since I decided to do a marathon I went to Barnes & Noble and thumbed through the books on running/marathoning. I found a book called ChiRunning that has really surprised me. The author has devised an approach to running that is based on principles of Tai Chi. The focus is on good running form that engages core muscles while relaxing the legs and arms. You get momentum by leaning and letting gravity pull you forward while lifting up your legs to catch you from falling and perpetuate the forward momentum. The technique is a lot easier on your body than normal running and is quite energizing. If you're a runner or you're thinking about taking up running I highly recommend it (send me an email and I can forward you some info if you want to try it).
My first milestone will be a race some of us are doing on the 4th of July up in Boise. It's a 6-miler which will be a first for me. We'll see how it goes.
Cool. I am sure you can do it. I think that physical challenges are mental as well, and the combination of the two is a healthy way to challenge yourself overall. I loved the triathlon I did last year. Sign up for the "Presidential Fitness" challenge online. You can record your progress every day and earn a medal. Ian and I are doing it.
ReplyDeleteGood luck.
I am impressed! I don't think I could ever run a marathon. I get bored after about 30 minutes of running. However, we watched a British movie recently that you might appreciate. It is called "Run Fat Boy." It gave Sean and I a few good laughs!
ReplyDeleteI've heard of that movie. We'll have to check it out. It looks really funny.
ReplyDeleteI ran my first marathon this year. It was great and I will run more of them. Just ramp up your miles slowly and you'll do fine. Try to pick a flat marathon for your first race...
ReplyDeleteWay to go Brady. I hear marathons are addicting. That is a great goal to work towards. We will cheer you on from Texas!
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