Getting Started

The training kicks into high gear tomorrow!! Today is exactly 16 weeks until the Philly Marathon. As of right now, my base mileage is 30 miles a week and I'm nursing a back injury. If I follow the "Basic Marathoner" schedule, I'll start upping my mileage this week, peak at 45 miles a week, then taper right before the race. So, that's where I'm heading...this is how it started...

Always interested in athletics and working out, I went through some periods in my life where my health was the last thing on my list. From partying, smoking, being 40 lbs heavier, depressed...I've completely turned my life around. Today, after my husband and family, staying in shape is my number one priority. Some think it's an obsession, and they are right...but running and working out have been the best thing I've ever done for myself.

I realized how much I liked running when I started "training" for the Las Vegas 2007 Half Marathon. I use training lightly because I didn't really know what I was doing or getting myself into. But, after finishing with a 1:51:20, I was hooked! A little over a month after the race, I joined a local running club. Heading out for my first Saturday Fun Run, I was a nervous wreck. My husband said I was like a kid on their first day of kindergarten. Thank goodness he convinced me to go because this group of runners have become a huge part of my week and I have made great connections and friendships.

So after the Half marathon and a few other competitive runs, I decided to sign up for the Philadelphia Marathon on 23-Nov-2008. It's all I can think about and while I have so much doubt in my capabilities, I'm determined to prove to the insecure part of me that I can do this. I never considered myself a runner, and some days I still don't, but I know I won't give up and that I have the strength and endurance to get through this.

I'm going to keep this journal as a means of keeping me going over the next few months. I know it's going to be rough, time consuming and exhausting but the rewards of crossing that finish line will be worth every ache and pain I endure along the way.

If there are any runners out there who stumble upon this, feel free to comment...I'll appreciate any advice and good wishes you have to offer.

Let's run...