Hey there! I’m Alex, the creator of Running Racing Relaxing. Today, I want to take you on a journey through my first marathon experience a day that was as exhilarating as it was challenging, filled with lessons, laughs, and a few bumps along the way.
It all started during my senior year of college. I had been running 5Ks and the occasional 10K, but the idea of running a marathon seemed like a distant dream. The thought of covering 26.2 miles (42.2 kilometers) in one go felt overwhelming, but I craved a new challenge. So, with a mix of excitement and fear, I signed up for a marathon six months out.
Training for a marathon was a whole new world. I had to shift from casual runs to structured training schedules that involved long runs, tempo runs, and recovery days. My Saturdays became synonymous with long-distance runs, gradually increasing from 10 miles (16 km) to 20 miles (32 km).
One of the funniest memories from my training was when I decided to do a long run in a new part of town. I got lost around mile 15 (24 km) and ended up adding an extra two miles (3 km) to my route. By the time I found my way back, I was exhausted and starving. But looking back, it was a reminder of how unpredictable running can be and how important it is to plan your routes!
Nutrition became a big focus during my training. I experimented with different pre-run meals, finding that oatmeal with banana and honey was my go-to. It gave me the energy I needed without feeling too heavy. On race day, I stuck to what I knew worked no new foods, no surprises.
Hydration was another key element. During one of my early long runs, I made the rookie mistake of not bringing enough water. Around mile 12 (19 km), I hit the dreaded “wall.” My pace slowed to a crawl, and I realized I needed to figure out a better hydration strategy. After that, I started using a hydration vest and learned to take small sips regularly rather than waiting until I was thirsty.
The weeks leading up to the marathon involved tapering reducing the mileage to let my body recover and store up energy. It was both a relief and a bit nerve-wracking. Suddenly, I had extra time on my hands and a growing anxiety about the race. I kept myself calm by focusing on the mental side of running, using visualization techniques to picture myself crossing the finish line.
Race day arrived, and with it, a mix of excitement and nerves. I remember pinning on my race bib and thinking, “This is it. All those months of training have led to this moment.” The atmosphere at the starting line was electric, with thousands of runners sharing the same goal.
The first few miles felt great. I stuck to my plan of starting slow, resisting the urge to sprint out of the gate. Around mile 13 (21 km), I felt a surge of energy. The crowds were cheering, and I thought, “I’ve got this!”
But then came mile 20 (32 km). This is where the real marathon begins. My legs felt like they were made of lead, and every step became a mental battle. I remember passing a group of runners who were struggling, and I thought about joining them for a quick break. But I dug deep, recalling all the training I had put in.
As I approached the final mile, something amazing happened. The pain faded, and I was filled with a sense of accomplishment. I could see the finish line in the distance, and suddenly, every sacrifice, every early morning run, and every aching muscle was worth it.
Crossing the finish line was a moment I’ll never forget. I was exhausted but elated. I had done it. I had conquered my first marathon. The sense of pride and achievement was overwhelming.
Running my first marathon was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. It taught me resilience, patience, and the power of setting a goal and working toward it. If you’re thinking about running a marathon, my advice is simple: go for it. With the right preparation, determination, and a bit of humor along the way, you’ll cross that finish line with a story to tell and a medal around your neck.
Happy running!
Alex