Over the past few months, I’ve shared about my running struggles and the Marine Corps marathon several times (here, here, & here, for example). After our move to Colorado, I had a much harder time adjusting to the altitude and hills than I expected. Instead of a few bad runs, it’s been just a few good runs amid a LOT of rough or forced runs.
I’ve prayed, tried several motivation tricks, and forced myself through most of the training. Getting sick a few weekends ago didn’t help, my long runs haven’t gone according to my plan at all. I’ve planned, re-planned, adjusted goals, and re-planned my training again. Did I mention my right foot started acting up again?
You know what…I’m not really having fun and it shows.
I considered dropping this marathon, but I’d really like to check this one off my list and move on. So, I’m going to try something different and run the marathon for fun!
I’ve done enough marathons to know that I can safely cover the distance at this point, but I’m definitely not prepared to race. So I’m going to approach MCM with the goal to have fun, have pictures, and enjoy the day. I’m going to cheer on Kirk and Melody (an awesome friend doing her first marathon!), wave to Lauren and Greg, and see what happens.
Then I’m not going to run for a month. I’m going go hiking, walk the dogs, yoga, hopefully snowboarding, and maybe an easy bike or two. I want to miss running! I have a lot of training coming up for Ironman Cairns and I would really like to enjoy that as much as possible.
In a little over three weeks I’ll be able to answer the big question – can you (really) run a marathon for fun?
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Questions for you:
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Do you take an extended break from training to refresh your mind (and body)?
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Any other non-running activities should I try in November?