The Marathon Training Blog

Last night I had the most amazing run. I was supposed to do 4, but felt so great during my run, I decided to go 6. The weather was beautiful (crisp and cool), the sunset was pink and purple and beautiful, and I felt really good -- physically and mentally strong. I have a love/hate relationship with running lately and now I remember why I love it. It also helped that the park was teeming with runners and walkers. I had a tremendous runners' high when I was done. I've really missed that. I don't get it from the really long runs or from the 4 milers anymore. It's a wonderful thing and so motivating.

I recently got a post to my blog that I'm not being very positive. I hope I don't seem down on the prospect of running a marathon, just scared and definitely unsure of myself. But one thing I've learned about myself and running only hits it home for me, is that the difference between what you think you can do and what you're capable of is sometimes so vast and inaccuratel. I doubt that I can run 12 miles knowing that I ran 10 the week before. That's nuts. But it's something I do in my running, and in my personal and professional life. Training for the marathon, while painful and nervewracking, has taught me so much about trying to let go of the mental crap -- self-doubt, uncertainty, negativity -- that holds you back and pushing through it. At the end of it, you prove to yourself what you really are capable of. I do it all the time and am really proud of what I've accomplished so far, even when I'm concerned that my feet won't make it.

Speaking of posts, I've gotten such great tips and fabulous advice. I want to say thanks for all the confidence boosts and shows of support from total strangers! And the tips, from cutting up a PowerBar to eat on a long run, to which gu tastes most like frosting -- brilliant! I'm also so excited to know that other readers are training for Philly as well. I'll see you there!

Looking forward to the long run this weekend, I have another 12 miler coming up. And of course, the usual doubts come to mind, but knowing I did it last weekend certainly helps allay some fears!

This weekend is all about vanilla and chocolate gu! Plus, I'm going to read up on proper ways to run downhill (I just know I'm doing it wrong), try to start running with timing in mind, track down some arch supports or new fabulous socks, and look for what's new in fallrunning gear. I'll keep you posted. Any words of wisdom, send them along.

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