As referenced by the website of this blog, I am a runner. For many years, I refused to call myself a runner because I have never been very GOOD at running. But, now that I have run several long races (ranging from 6.2 to 15.5 miles - 10K to 25K), and am currently training for a full marathon, I guess that qualifies me as a "runner".
So, I'm on week 10 of an 18 week marathon training program. I'm registered for the Twin Cities Marathon (nicknamed "the most beautiful urban marathon in America") on October 2nd. This is the first race I'm training for by myself. I've trained for all my other races with a friend. While I really enjoy running with a friend, I also have come to embrace my long solo runs. How often do we get to have several hours of uninterrupted "me time"? So far, training has been successful and relatively pain-free.
Here are some FAQs about running this marathon:
Q. Why did you decide to run a full marathon?
A. I've enjoyed running various lengths of races for a few years now, and I think that for any runner, a marathon is the ultimate challenge and accomplishment. Since I'm in relatively good running shape, I figured that now is as good of a time as any to tackle 26.2.
Q. But Kate, you're the least athletic person I know! What makes you think YOU can run a marathon??
A. Well, I'm glad you asked! It's true - my whole life, I've been told (especially by my well-intentioned but ultimately unhelpful mother) that I have absolutely no athletic ability or potential. I was never good at sports (again, I think I was discouraged by my mom growing up) and hated Phy Ed. I'm not a natural athlete, that's for sure. But, I've worked my way up to having a level of endurance and strength to be able to run 26.2. Luckily, you don't need to be very coordinated to run... mostly you just need motivation and perseverance. If I can run a marathon, anyone can - seriously.
Q. What are you doing to train for the race?
A. My favorite running plans are Hal Higdon's. I'm using one of his free plans that I found online. I run 3 shorter runs during the week (this week it's two 4-milers and one 8-miler), and then one progressively longer run on either Saturday or Sunday (this week, 17 miles). I have been doing the long run on either Saturday or Sunday depending on the weather and how late I'm out the night before! So far, I've run every single mile that my schedule tells me to run. There's also one day per week of cross-training, and two days of rest. I also do 2 or 3 days per week of strength training, even though that's not actually part of my plan.
Q. Um... is this really a good idea? Didn't the first person to ever run a marathon DIE at the end?
A. That's totally just a myth! Referring to the Battle of Marathon. I'm not planning to die.
Q. Do you run very fast?
A. Nope!
Q. Can I watch you during the race?
A. YES!! There's even a new thing where you can sign up to receive texts telling you where your favorite runners are in the race. Last year, when I ran the TC10miler, it didn't work very well, but I'm hoping that the kinks are worked out this year. Once I have a better idea of the pace at which I'll be running, I'll figure out the approximate times I'll be passing popular spectator locations. Having supporters is so helpful, especially toward the end.
I really appreciate all the encouragement I've received so far throughout this process - especially from Ben, who was initially skeptical but who has proven to be so supportive. Thanks!
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