The push to the finish line

Its been about 10 years since I decided that jogging would be the thing that I do. It started as a habit changer. In deciding to quit smoking and I took on running. Initially a quarter mile and I was huffing and puffing and sometimes had to walk the last .24 miles of my jog. A couple years into being a "runner", the thought of someday running a marathon entered the scene and here we are now in 2010, I am officially training for a marathon.

Going into week 9 of training I have had many "aHa" moments. Who would've known training for a marathon is as educational experience as it really is.

1. I have firstly learned that I can't eat whatever the helc I want. Gotta watch out, the dinner from the night before might be lurking around to spite you for the 5am jog.
2. You gotta listen to the signals your body gives you. All the bones and muscles in your body talk. You just gotta listen and respond accordingly, but still gotta push them to become stronger.
3. Santa Barbara has soo many places that are even more beautiful than the post cards. Running provides the opportunity to explore all of these places and I look forward to finding more gems in the next 9 weeks of training.
4. Time management is key. Since the need to follow your training program is huge, every run should be adhered to, meaning Friday nights means no outings and for most part have to get to bed early (before midnight).
   
5. the 8 glasses of water rule, so importante. In fact im siding with the 16 rule now.
6. Stretching is key. My muscles are very sore, all the time, but the pain in stretching reinforces comfort and strength later.
7. Company. Knowing that others are doing the same thing is helpful. I am running with a few friends that are also training for marathons and sharing experiences is helpful.
   
8. Establishing limits before starting. I have always been a SOLO runner, no talking, no music, set my own pace and just do it. Ive changed a bit- BUT still appreciate running alone on some occasions as it serves to clear my mind and is my way of "escaping".
   

I do not think that I will become a marathoner. I dont know. but what I do know is that I am very much appreciate of this experience in being able to push my body a bit. More so than I have in previous physical challenges. I know when I cross the finish line I will be nearly dead, but when I look back upon the 18 weeks of training, I will have accomplished a life long goal.

Until next time-
Jm