Tools for Success

People are running marathons much more than they were 15-20 years ago. I think a lot of it is with how easy its become. I don't mean that running 26.2 miles has actually become easier, but there are more tools available to help you train properly. Gadgets to track your progress, music to inspire you, and programs to follow all for free online. These are the two that I've found most helpful in my training so far:

• MapMyFitness.com I've got the app on my ipod as well as on my andriod phone, so it gets used quite a bit. It uses GPS signals to track your route so you can determine how far you've gone. It's a little off when I use my ipod, but you can save your workout then go back online and edit it to reflect the correct distances. Since it keeps a record of your workouts you can quickly see how you're improving. You can also track calories, but I haven't done that much yet.
• rockmyrun.com This is a great site to download FREE music mixes.They display track listings, lengths and beats per minute. Its a great way to add a variety of music at a continuous beat with minimal effort. I just discovered this a few days ago, but I"m excited to explore more of their options. 

Training is going good so far. I know I've got a long way to go, but I'm feeling stronger every day (well most days anyway) so I really think this is one goal I can accomplish. 

Days until marathon: 204

Let the training begin...officially!

Tomorrow marks the offical start date for my marathon training plan. It's the Super Novice plan from Hal Higdon's website. That means that at this time in 30 weeks, I will be able to say that I've successfully run a marathon. I'm excited to have a clear plan of action- never having to determine on my own how far I should run. It's already on the calendar. Its just up to me to get out the door and do it.

I'm amazed at how much has already changed since I had the idea to do this. Starting out 3 weeks ago I couldn't run a mile without taking a break (or two) and now I'm fairly consistently running 1.5-2 miles without stopping at all. Granted, I'm not going to be breaking any world records for my speed, but I don't care. I'm beating my records, and thats all I really care about. The feeling of accomplishment you get is enough to keep me coming back for more. Last week I forced myself out of bed at 5:30am on a Friday to get my run in for the day because I knew I wouldn't have time later in the day. I laid in bed trying to come up with every excuse I could think of. The conversation in my head went something like this:

             "I really don't want to get up and run today"
                                    "You have to, you didn't run yesterday, and you won't have time tonight"
              "I don't feel good."
                                    "You feel fine. Now get up!"
              "My knee hurts"
                                    "No it doesn't. Just take it slow and only do 1 mile"
                "Ok. Fine"

So out I went. It was still dark out, so as I started my run I could still see the stars. It was very peaceful. As I continued to run, I reached the point in the route that I usually stp and walk, but I was feeling good, so I kept running. Then I reached the one mile point, and was still feeling ok, so I kept running....and running...and running. I finally got to a point where I was ready to stop, but realized I didn't have much farther to go, so I decided to push on. The motivation to say I'd done it was enough to keep me going and sure enough I finished. 2 miles- non stop. I'm holding on to that feeling of accomplishment to keep me going - out the door- until I surpass that accomplishment with 3 miles. Then 4. and eventually 26.2!  I know its going to take time, but for now I'm going to celebrate each small victory or just the simple fact that I got outside and did it.