Pre-Marathon Thoughts

I finally decided what I'm wearing for the marathon. See that photo up there? That's what I'll be wearing. My white Adidas visor, my red Oak Park Runners Club tank, my fuel belt with it's neon green bottles, and black shorts. I'll also have my black knee strap around my right knee but I'm pretty sure I won't be the only one.

I also bought iron-on letters to put my name on the shirt right above the OPRC logo.

For anyone who wants to look for my number, I'm 16190. You can also do runner tracking via text but I can't promise you how accurate it will be.

My goal is to run between 10:00 and 10:30 miles assuming my knee holds up and the weather doesn't freak out.

And with those logistical details out of the way, I thought I'd post the top 10 things I learned while training for this marathon. Next week I'll do a follow-up post that includes the top 10 things I learned while actually running the marathon!

So, without further ado:


1. I have to wear lip balm when I run. If I don't, my lips get this sort of dry, gummy film on them that drives me insane.

2. Long distance running is intimidating but you will surprise yourself with what you can do.

3. Don't take running for granted. Even if you have to slow down, you're still running.

4. A good support group of other, more experienced runners is invaluable.

5. My favorite pre-long-run meal is pasta with roasted broccoli and walnuts with the addition of chicken sausage and a piece of bread or a roll.

6. I have to stuff myself to an almost uncomfortable fullness the night before a long run. Follow that up with a white bread bagel with crunchy peanut butter no more than 2 hours before the run. If I have to eat earlier than that I need to eat half of a Clif bar 30 minutes before gun time. Yay for a fast metabolism?

7. Those long, crappy, slog-fests of runs where you cry and sweat and think you'll never finish so why are you even out there? They don't matter in the end. Don't let them get you down.

8. Understanding friends and family are key. Someone has to make dinner when you don't get home from running until after 8PM and you don't really want it to be you.

9. Planning race day logistics are almost as important as training for the thing!

10. You're allowed to be terrified up until you cross the start line. Then it's time to have fun.

Bonus! 11. Marathon taper brain is a real thing. Right now my brain is mush. I can barely remember my own name. Thank goodness my boss is letting me go home early!