Endurance Runs

This component is very essential in training for a Marathon. I run during the week for conditioning but, on Saturdays my long runs are solely to prepare my body to endure the 26.2 mile distance.

I’m presently training for the Pasadena Marathon, and this past Saturday, to my surprise I had to run 19 miles. I don’t know what I was thinking but, I thought I had to run 14 miles. Since I like to know the mileage before the day of, so I can program myself and my body to accept that distance, I was a bit distraught. But, at the start I just said, okay the sooner I start the sooner I can take care of my plans for the day. Considering the difference in the distances, I was a bit behind schedule the entire day.

Since I had programmed myself for (14) miles, the last (5) miles were a bit of a challenge. The mind is very powerful! Had I programmed myself for the (19), I would have handled the entire distance well.

Instead of enjoying the entire run, there was a constant battle between my body and my mind for the last (5) miles. There were many arguments. For example, “My foot hurts”, “I thought I was only suppose to run (14) miles, while not stop at that?” “I’ll do (19) miles next week promise.” “The hill is too hard today don’t do it, stay on the flat course.”

It is very important to pay attention to your training schedule. Make sure you prepare and condition yourself during the week physically and mentally for the weekend endurance runs. Handled properly these long runs can be challenging in a fun way. When you reach the (22) distance in training it’s a GREAT feeling. Don’t mess it up.

At this point you are ready to tackle the 26.2 mile distance. You can rest assured that your mind and body will work together so that when you cross the finish line, you will be overflowing with joy and fulfillment.