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Running away from marathon fears
Most people reading our blog have been running for a while now, and you love it. On the suggestion of a running pal, you bit the bullet and began training in earnest for a marathon or other similar epic run for which you signed up. The initial moment of excitement has passed, but all seems to be going well.
With that once distant day becoming real, much as it did for participants in the recent Disney Marathon Weekend, worries begin to crop up in your mind. You’re in good company. Nearly all runners have at least a few of the fears detailed below, ranging from the legitimate to the paranoid. The good news is there’s a way to work concerns and hit the starting line ready for 13.1 or 26.2.
I just don’t think I can run that far!
If you are reasonably healthy runner and fairly experienced with the desire to run something like a 10K or a half marathon, then you’ve got the foundation. If you fail to see yourself as a capable athlete, you aren’t being fair; it’s time to step back and begin developing goals for your continued training.
There’s a chance I could really get hurt.
It’s true; you might get hurt. The reality is that injuries like tendinitis and shin splints are typically worse in your head. Still, injuries can and do happen. The key is trying to be smart enough to avoid injuries as you prepare for a race like the Clearwater Distance Classic. This means you’ll want to eat a well-balanced diet, drink plenty of fluids and work on some other training techniques to keep your body strong.
I’ll be the last one to cross the finish line!
Given the number of people who typically sign up for a race like one of the Disney marathons, the chances of you being the final finisher are not good.If you do happen to bring up the rear, the important thing to takeaway is the sense of accomplishment. Running transforms you in a way your finish time never will!
Stop letting minor fears hold you back. Just value your skill, train smart, get ready to have fun and learn from your first marathon or half marathon!
Enjoy the journey…one Milestone at a time.