42 lessons learned from my three marathons

I have run 3 marathons in 12 months. That’s a pretty big feat for someone like me. I still feel shy saying, “I run marathons. I am a marathoner.” I may not look like a marathoner but I have the drive. I have learned a lot about myself and others in those three marathons (New York, Calgary, Okanagan) and here they are in no particular order.

1. Mental strength goes along way
2. You have to run fast, to run fast
3. Time on your feet is important whether it’s walking or running
4. Strength is just as important as endurance
5. Have fun
6. I am stronger than I think I am
7. Telling people about your goals is important
8. Good nutrition is key
9. Learn to pace yourself
10. It’s okay to have a glass of wine or a pint of beer to calm your nerves the night before the big day
11. Don’t overdo it with the water
12. Don’t stare at the Garmin
13. It’s okay to pass people
14. Find your beacon and keep following it
15. Don’t take walk breaks in the second half of the race
16. Walk at the water stations
17. Run a conservative first half
18. Finish strong
19. Talk to people. Make new friends.
20. Don’t wing your training
21. Put BodyGlide on everything
22. Carry painkillers
23. Take a gel every hour
24. Listen to your body
25. Don’t expect miracles
26. Speed work is essential
27. Train smart
28. Surround yourself with positive and like-minded individuals
29. Don’t ignore pain
30. Give thanks to volunteers and race directors
31. Do not try anything new on race day
32. Get enough sleep throughout training and before the big day
33. Smile and raise your hands up when you cross the finish line or when you see a camera
34. Do not look down when running
35. Never say never
36. Run shorter races during marathon training
37. Rest during marathon training
38. Have someone waiting to give you a hug at the finish line
39. Do not compare yourself to others
40. Set reasonable goals
41. Cut yourself some slack
42. Believe in yourself