Rachel and I have officially signed up for the Cowtown Half Marathon in Fort Worth, TX! We are excited to get back into training mode, because we feel much more confident about it this time around. We have kept up with our running since finishing the San Antonio Rock n Roll ½ Marathon, but we have scaled back a bit. We run 8 miles every Sunday and at least 3 to 5 miles during the week. Luckily, it feels as though our bodies have stayed in ½ marathon shape.
There was no nervousness signing up for the ½ marathon this time. Actually, we both feel energized and excited to accomplish another goal. I always say that it’s important to have something to look forward to. It gives you something to work toward every day. Having the ½ marathon looming in the back of my mind will help push me to continue to stay healthy. That’s why it’s important to set specific targets for yourself. For example, if you want to be a runner then sign up for a 5k and begin the Couch to 5k program. I know I always say that, but it’s important to sign up and hold yourself accountable. If you are unable to run a race because you weren’t ready for it, then it’s your fault because you knew what you were working towards and what you had to do to accomplish it. I know it’s scary to sign up for that first race. I know you are filled with doubts, but you need to realize that it’s normal to feel scared. That’s why it feels so good to finish, because you think about how you were so afraid and suddenly you are crossing the line and conquering your fears.
Running starts with your mind. You have to want to run. If you fill it with words like “I can’t,” you are just creating doubt which will inevitably take control. You need to fill it with possibilities and confidence. Once your mind begins to believe, your body begins to believe. It moves in unison with the thoughts your mind provides. It reacts to how your mind reacts. If you run in disbelief your body wants nothing more than to shut down. Start with the mind. Work on it before you even try to start running.
When the mind finally believes and the body begins to move your heart then takes over. In the moments when your mind becomes weak and your body begins to feel like crumbling to the ground your heart will keep you moving. It will fill you with desire and emotion. It will give you the energy to finish and eventually lead you to a love of running.
In the end, you have to want to run. You have to believe it. You have to move your body. Finally, you have to let your heart take over. It is what I have done. Now, I am getting ready to run another ½ marathon and perhaps a couple of others. Then, I will be training for a full marathon. Why? Because I believe I can and eventually I will.
Running On Empty 
Excellent! The mental (and emotional) aspect of running is such a big part of the sport!
Thanks for the inspiration! Living in sub-degree temperatures in Canada makes winter running tough, but the rewards well worth the effort! Happy running…
I wish I could run a mile…very inspiring; yet depressing at the same time. I gotta smoke a cigarette.
Great description of the mental and emotional aspects of distance running! And just the thing I needed today. I also ran the San Antonio 1/2 marathon this year and am now training for the Houston full marathon, but have been set back in my training by an injury and was starting to think this morning that my marathon goal may be unattainable. It remains to be seen whether my body will hold up, but thanks for helping me get my head and heart back in the right place!
We all have those moments when our bodies want to stop. I went through the same thing training for the 1/2. The great thing is there are always other races to run. If you are not meant to run this one then there is a reason for that. But, I think you will find that with a little rest and relaxation your body will build itself back up again and you will become a stronger runner. I think you will be able to run in Houston! Just listen to your body because it will always tell you what it wants. Good luck to you and I hope you accomplish every single one of your goals!!