Marathon Training

I am about 6 weeks into my marathon training schedule for the Portland Marathon on Oct. 4th and it is such a blast! I am one of those weird runners who doesn't like to run with music...I guess I just like the rhythm and peace that my footsteps and breathing create. I initially wanted to run 11 minute miles for the marathon but am finding that through training I have been able to maintain a 10 minute mile pace (about 6mph) for more than 10 miles. I may not be able to maintain that for the whole marathon...but that is my new goal.

It surprises me how much our bodies can adjust to exercise or repair themselves so quickly when they have the proper nutrition and consistent training. I never really listened to my body when I was training in high school and college...I would just do what the coaches said. Now that I am my own coach I really do have to figure out what is best for me. I usually do one long run each week followed by three shorter runs to work on speed. I am up to 11 miles followed by 4-5 mile runs. Each week I add about 4-5 miles overall. It seems to be a good incline so far.

It has been really exciting to watch the improvement in my times and the feeling of running further and faster than I ever have in my life! I am continually thinking of my favorite verse on my long runs..."Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will rise up on wings like eagles; they will run and not be weary; they will walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31. I also think of what Paul says in 1 Corinthians, "I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, so that I myself will not be disqualified."

I just wanted to share a bit of what I have been up to lately.

Jessi