Here we go! I'm starting my scary but thrilling journey to training and completing my first full marathon - 26.2 miles!
Yesterday I completed my fourth half marathon (13.1 Atlanta) in 2 hours and 20 minutes. That is a 14 minute improvement from my very first half in March of 2010. As I reflect back on these four halves and look at how I have transformed from a hesitant jogger to a confident run/walker, I am encouraged by the growth I have seen in myself. I hope that as I begin this training that I can keep that encouragment in my head!
Today I plan to rest my body and mind before I start my new training routine. I will be participating in the Atlanta Half Marathon on Thanksgiving day with my boyfriend and my aunt. My short term goal for this race is to improve from 2:20:03 to 2:17:00. I have done a lot of online research to find ways to improve your speed and have begun reading the book Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide by Hal Higdon. What I have found is that track running and tempo runs are the way to improve. I alternated both types once a week during my training for the 13.1 half, but this time I'm going to double up and do one of each run each week. I'll let you know how stressful (physically and mentally) that is on me!
Outside of the higher expectations I am setting for myself fitness wise, I have added a new responsibility to my plate that will cause additional hurdles in my training. This week I will begin working a part time job in addition to my full time teaching job. I am hoping that I have the discipline and drive to keep up with the demands, but fear that this could possibly be too much. Let me know if you have any suggestions for scheduling, time management, or other pieces of advice that you would be willing to give to this novice marathon trainer!!
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