In just 14 weeks I’ll be faced with another massive challenge in my Life Long Project: The 2009 Chicago Marathon. That’s right, on October 11 I’m going back for seconds with a goal to beat last year’s marathon time. Running a marathon is not something I thought I’d ever do once let alone twice. But I’m stubborn sometimes. Okay, I’m stubborn most of the time.
There’s more to running a marathon than showing up on race day with some nifty sneakers, a sweatband, and knee-high socks. Running the marathon starts months before race day. I’ve been preparing in earnest for this year’s big race for months. So far this year I’ve completed four half-marathons and scores of runs. Now, I’m happy to report, my training really begins to heat up.
Sunday is now my longest-run day and Thursday is my mid-week long run. The shortest run I do from this point onward is four miles. Based on my experience from last year I know that the best thing I can do to prepare for Chicago is to run more miles. I finished last year but it was far more difficult than what I imagined it would be. Add to that my wooziness, aching body, and nearly unbearable final four miles and I’m vowing to prepare in more detail this year. Here’s my schedule for the next 14 weeks (click the image for full-size details): I’ll also confess that last year I skimped on any cross-training efforts. Not this time. I’m convinced that I need to be strong, have a good core, and focus on my body beyond my legs. I’m back to the gym and getting reacquainted with lifting weights, swimming, and doing some good stretching, yoga, and balance exercises.
I’ll keep you posted on my efforts, training runs, and ongoing commitment to do better this year. Thanks for your comments and encouragement!
