Could You Run A Marathon?
......"One year I'm going to run the marathon"........ usually after just having watched that year's event on TV! For most people that ambition falls away as normal life intrudes on their daydreaming and somehow a whole year has passed and they find themselves once more watching the whole spectacle from the comfort of their sofa! But not everyone. There are some people for whom the dream becomes a reality. An achievement that will be with them for the rest of their lives. So Then maybe running in the event is a goal worth going after. There is one thing anyone who has taken part will tell you "There is nothing quite like it!" Training. The run itself is 26.2 miles of punishment. To reach the required fitness levels a person of average ability will have to commit to a regular training regime for at least 6 months before the event. Perhaps longer if your current idea of heavy duty exercise is carrying the biscuit tin back to the kitchen! There are plenty of training regimes you can follow. And advice websites are falling over themselves telling you how to do it. Its up to you to use the ideas you think will work for you. For some people training is a solitary exercise. Others prefer to train with friends. Or even join a running club. Be in no doubt however that training will require you to put in the time and the miles! Entry to The Major Marathons Being allowed to take part in many of the larger events is by no means guaranteed. Competition for places is fierce. You need to register as soon as possible. The governing organizations begin to process new applications for next year's race the minute this year's has been run! Application procedures vary and can depend on ability and performance in previous events. Some organisers use a ballot system. Most marathons reserve a certain number of places for charity runners but its very important to check out the likelihood of a place and sign up before embarking on a years training! Here are links to the 5 major world marathons:
Berlin
Boston
Chicago
London
New York
As well as the majors there are of course any number of still quite significant events taking place in towns and cities all over. Sometimes by running in these events you might actually be able to gain extra sponsorship money from local businesses etc. Running in a marathon is not easy, but it is a fantastic experience. So if you are prepared to make a real commitment to your cause. Put on your running shoes............ and go the extra mile!
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