Marathon and Half-Marathon by Marnie Caron

Author:Marnie Caron
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Greystone Books

Using, for example, the goal of incorporating weight training into your routine, a poorly set goal might be: “I think I’ll try to learn about weight training.” A SMARTER goal would be: “I will go to the introductory class on weight training at my gym this Monday at 7 PM.”

Dr. Sedgwick suggests that a common pitfall for all athletes is negative self-talk. If you catch yourself saying “I have to...” frequently, it is a good idea to step back and reconnect with your original reasons for running. A person who, in contrast, has a high level of motivation to do a marathon would frequently use positive self-talk such as “I want to train” or “I get to go for a run.” Even better, add an exclamation point: “I want to train!” You can see it doesn’t take much to give yourself a positive message.

Make Running a Routine

Making running part of your routine increases your chances of sticking with it and achieving your marathon goals. Dr. Sedgwick suggests that when starting a new exercise or running program it’s important to, as early as possible, establish habits or routines that work for you. Before you cross the finish line of a half or full marathon, ideally you will have created and maintained a running routine that easily fits into your daily life. Through trial and error you will figure out what works for you. You will learn whether you run better alone or with a group, the best time of day for you to run, and the pre-run diet that works for your body. These are a few examples of tests you will repeat throughout your training until your best options become known and routine. For some people, running will become as much a part of their daily routine as brushing their teeth.

Mix It Up

Beginning marathoners usually start their training with an abundance of excitement and motivation, but maintaining enthusiasm over the months of training isn’t easy. To keep things fresh, include some variety in the time, place, and terrain. Habits and routine are key to sticking with your marathon program, but if you aren’t motivated you will begin to skip runs. For example, you may find training in your neighborhood sufficiently rewarding, but over time the experience is likely to pale. Passing the same houses, barking dogs, and coffee shops can be tedious and tiring. Avoid boredom and waning enthusiasm by planning times when you’ll leave the comfort of your own community for neighboring trails and parks.

RUNNER PROFILE

Craig

Craig was never really into running; he preferred sports like hockey and skiing. “I always thought running was for tiny guys. I’m 6 foot 4 and built more like a football player than the waifs I see running marathons.” But when Craig’s good pal Brian was trying to put his life back together after his divorce and suggested they choose a destination marathon so that they could run the event and holiday afterward, Craig decided he couldn’t say no. After all, this was the first time in months that his friend had been excited about anything.

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