The Fort Worth Marathon

Yes.  You read that correctly.  I have decided to run the Fort Worth Marathon on November 11th.  Which means that I have 19 weeks to train for this shindig. 


I have started this blog to keep myself accountable during my training, and to share my experience with others.


I have never ran a marathon.  This is all new to me.  I do consider myself a runner, but usually a pretty average mileage runner.  My runs usually vary from 2 miles to 4 miles.  This is definitely going to be a challenge for me, but I am so excited for it!


Just a little background for those of you who do not know me-

        I began running when I was 10 years old with my local soccer team.

I have ran plenty of 5k's since then.

I ran varsity on my high school cross country and track teams for 4 years.

After high school I stopped working out and learned that it wasn't magic that I was skinny in high school... it was hard work.

I currently do cross-fit, birkam yoga, and run on a pretty normal basis.

So why have I decided to take on this challenge?  Well, in January I decided that it was time that I got back into shape, so I started working out and eating healthy.  I have lost a total of 13 pounds in the last 6 months!!!  (This is a lot of weight for a 5'1" girl like me).  I also graduated from college last month with my Bachelors in Social Work.   I am so proud of myself.  I want to get the last few pounds off, and a marathon would be perfect.  Plus it will remind me that I can do anything!  Cheesy right?  

GOALS:

1. Follow the training plan as closely as I can.  Only missing scheduled runs if I am sick or have some crazy emergency.  
2. Avoid the Texas summer heat as often as possible.  I know this will be difficult, but I think this may be a good time to become a morning runner.
3. Listen to my body.  It is important that I don't overdo it during the next few months.
4. Complete the marathon, not win the marathon.  This is my first marathon, so I want to focus on completing the distance.  I do not want to get caught up in worrying about my time.
5. Eat as clean and as healthy as possible.  Limit my fast food intake to twice a week. Cooking my own food is not only super healthy, but will also help me save a ton of money. 

I will be using my boyfriend, we shall call him the Raider, as a continued source of support.  He thinks that running a marathon is crazy, but he thinks I can do it.  He is also an amazing cook, maybe I can bribe some healthy meals out of him.

Well I am starting my training program tomorrow, with the help of my new running shoes purchased over the weekend.  Wish me luck.  I will do daily check in's along the way.  Please share your encouraging words!!!