Respect the Race

This was the excellent and very valid advice from one of my colleagues today.

Many of my friends have said "don't worry, you'll be fine, you've done one before" when I explain I need to go for a run. But honestly, a year later, it doesn't mean any more than knowing how hard it is going to be to cross that finish line. None of my fellow marathon runners have given such advice - they know how hard it is!

At least last year I was ignorant to how it would actually be. All the reading and talking to others only prepared me slightly for the wall that would hit me at about 38kms. I was literally running up and down on the spot though felt like I was running as fast as in the first 10km. The final km, according to my garmin, took 12 mins!

Respect the race means preparing physically and mentally for enduring the 42.2km. This includes the obvious running, increasing my km in training so I am confident I can cover the distance on the day. Along with that, I need to start looking after my body, eating the right foods, hydrating, stretching and getting plenty of sleep which is great recovery for the body. Also start trialling the (all important) outfit and the accessories, ie fuel belt etc as you don't want nasty surprises on the day.

Respect the race means learning the detail of the course, breaking it down into section, knowing where to expect hills and refreshment stations. Luckily I know Paris very well, so from the marathon map I am able to visualise most of the route.

Respect the race means taking this seriously. Without enough preparation that day is going to feel like 100km, not just 42.2.

So tonight I ran 14.5km, a rather slow run at an hour and 40mins but I was determined to get out a decent distance to see where I am at after an inconsistent 2 weeks training.

No more excuses - I still believe I can do it, now just have to respect the race enough to put the effort in prior to race day.