Training Schedules Galore

Training... Training... Training... If I want to make it to 26.2, I'm going to need to put in some major mileage between now and there. There are so many conflicting training guides and schedules out there. As a novice runner, it's been a confusing and eye-opening experience. I've spent most of my week researching schedules, compiling my own calendar and then scrapping it and starting the process all over again. Now, after several versions and talks with some fellow runners, I have locked down a training plan that I hope will adequately prepare me for the race.

Now that the schedule is in place, you'd think I'd feel a bit more comfortable and on track. But seeing all those numbers on paper can be overwhelming. Most people will tell you your longest run pre-race should only be 20 miles. Personally, I don't think that's enough. I planned for 20, 22 and 24 mile runs before the race. I want to know my body and mind can go the distance ahead of time. It's a confidence thing. But that also means I will have three weeks where I will be running more than 40 miles in a 7 day period. I hope my knees and sanity can stay intact.

I want to thank everyone for supporting me on this journey. It's been amazing to receive so many well wishes and kind words from my friends. Keep them coming. I'm sure I'll need them when those 40+ mile weeks approach.

Let The Marathon Magic Begin!

So I have officially entered my first marathon this week - the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon. They say it is 26.2 miles of magic, but my best friend and I will be the judge of that in January. We are both taking this journey together… and wow, what an adventure it will be!

Obviously, the shock of signing up has worn off a bit. Now, reality is setting in. This is going to be an emotional and rewarding journey. I'm excited, scared, nervous, worried and so many other feelings that it's hard to describe.

I've been working on my training schedule this week, which has been exciting. But I have to say, seeing 20, 22 and 24 mile runs on a calendar is SCARY! I keep thinking: Can I do this? Will my body allow me to do this? We will soon see. Right now, I'm just trying to stay as positive as possible. And it helps I can talk to my best friend about this because she's going through it too.

My goal for this marathon is simple: finish! When I registered on Monday, I put in 5 hours as my estimated finish time. I ran my first half marathon in February and finished in 2:23, so I figured 5 hours is an acceptable and obtainable goal. Well, Disney apparently has a lot more faith in me. After reviewing my entry and previous race times, Disney changed my estimated finish time to 4 and a half hours. I wonder what kind of "magical" marathon calculator they used to figure out that one. Either way, if Mickey Mouse and his cast of characters believe I can do it, I should try my best.

I will be updating this blog throughout my magical journey to 26.2 miles. I’m sure there will be some high points and low points as I push my mind, body and soul to do something most people wouldn’t even think of attempting. My official training starts in July. I’m giving myself six months to prepare for this. And it will all be worth it when I hit the finish line on January 9th (and instantaneous burst into tears).