I ran my first marathon when I was 20 years old...the 2003 Twin Cities Marathon in October. It was especially memorable as it was my dad's first marathon as well. I meticulously followed Hal Higdon's novice training schedule that whole summer and had a wonderful experience. The past 10 years, there has only been one year in which I have not completed at least one marathon (2005)...and the most I have done in one year is 8. Several times, I have run them a week apart and luckily did not suffer any injuries as a result.
Why did I do this? Well, for one, I was single and had the time. I also loved to travel...I went to Arizona, Louisiana, Georgia, Wyoming, Colorado, Illinois...However, the main reason that I kept coming back for more was how hard the marathon was and what a thrill that finish line was...every time.
My fastest marathon to date was the Des Moines Marathon in 2010. It was my third marathon that fall...I finished both Sioux Falls and Twin Cities in 3:53 and was able to drop 10 minutes to finish in 3:43. Although I was still 3 minutes short of qualifying for Boston, I was so proud of myself and was holding back tears. My slowest marathon was 5:44 at the 2006 Twin Cities Marathon. I had just started my first teaching and coaching job, and was wasn't able to adequately prepare. I was probably equally proud to finish this one...those miles are unrelenting to the improperly prepared runner.
Knowing what I about the distance, I am a big believer that all runners should complete at least one marathon during their runner career. I think that it helps you to grow as a person...you are able to put yourself through the training and do something that many others would never attempt. The marathon exposes your weaknesses and allows you to power through. It strengthens friendships...whether you're training with someone, traveling to races together, co-miserating about hard workouts or long runs...these mutual experiences will bind you. Although I love my non-running friends, my marathon buddies will always have a very special place in my heart. And don't forget about the food! Carb loading?!! YES, please!
If you are thinking about training for a marathon, I recommend Hal Higdon's training plans. He offers many plans, free of charge, to all kinds of runners...slow, fast, beginners...he also has plans for completing multiple marathons two or three weeks apart. Here is a link to his page:
http://www.halhigdon.com/training/51135/Marathon-Training-Guide
HAPPY RUNNING!
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