The Training Begins

I signed up for my marathon, "Aaaaaaaahhhh???!!!"

Well, there were just no more excuses. I had my marathon training program in hand, I got my amazing running coach, Aaron,  and all I had left was to pick a race. I'm learning that there is a big difference between saying I'm going to train for a marathon and actually signing up for a race. I got online today to try to find a race and I found the Big "D" Texas Marathon. It's on April 10th and, interestingly enough, is 18 weeks away - the exact number of weeks for my training schedule. Hmmm...Meant to be?

The task of looking for the marathon, filling out the entry form and paying for it changes everything. All of a sudden, I'm committed (panic begins)! I have to actually run the training program now. I can't slack off because I have a marathon coming up and it's going to be really hard; I'd better be ready! In fact, I'm feeling a little sick to my stomach...

Today was my first long run of the training program. I ran 8 miles (the program calls for 10) but I have been feeling really tired and I have a LOT going on this week and I thought I'd better shorten my run just a little so that I can make it through to next week. As I returned from my run I started thinking about the fact that I'm supposed to run 12 next week and it's good that I'm wrapping my mind around it now. I'd better make sure I'm mentally prepared to do that. 8 miles felt pretty easy, surely 12 next week will be fine. I mean, I did run a half in November. ;) This is what I'm telling myself to sell myself on the fact that next week's 12 miles will be no problem.

Deep breath in, exhale, deep breath in, exhale...It's okay, Sam. You can do this. Don't worry, don't stress, just relax and enjoy the ride.