Week 1 Training - Jennifer

Do a little more each day than you think you possibly can.
-Lowell Thomas

This week can best be described as one of those “mental” weeks that we runners struggle with from time to time.  For me, overcoming my brain is often times more difficult than putting in the mileage.

My first “official” week of training for the marathon began with a sinus infection – yuck!  When you’re running, breathing is very necessary so, needless to say, it made for a rough start to the week.  I completely missed my 4-mile Tuesday run.

I felt better Thursday but that day came with a challenge all its own.  I awakened to pouring rain.  Anyone who runs with me knows, I can endure from extreme heat and humidity to 20 degree temperatures but I CANNOT handle beginning my run in the rain.  It took everything in me to get dressed and leave the house.  By the grace of God, it stopped raining before we began and didn’t start again until just after we finished.  5 miles accomplished and an obstacle overcome (at least for that day.)

Friday’s 4-miler was OK. I still struggled with my breathing a bit and an old injury seemed to be making a minor comeback.

Sunday began my ascent towards 26.2.  I increased mileage from 8 to 10.5.  It was a tough day for me.  My left leg began giving me a lot more trouble (I injured it a year and ½ ago and it’s never been the same since.)  After 2 miles I thought, “I don’t even know how I’m going to get through the next 8, let alone another 24!”  About half way through, my leg no longer ached and I was able to finish strong.  I could have very easily said, “I just can’t do this today” and quit after 2 miles.  Another obstacle overcome.

While last week was tough it was one of those amazing growth experiences I live for.  It reminds me why I run.  I initially began running to stay physically active, be with friends and clear my head.  I continue to run because of all the lessons it has taught me.  I am stronger not just physically but mentally.  I’ve learned to be patient when working toward my desired outcome.  I’ve learned pain is not always a bad thing.  I’ve learned my body can endure way more than I give it credit for.  And, above all else, I’m learning how to take control of my thoughts and make them work for me.  I don’t know if I’ll ever master this lesson but I know I’ll keep trying.