Marathon Training

I am so pleased to be a part of something that is such a part of my history. I moved to Oakland in 1983 from SF - and needed a place to run where the sun was out at 6pm. I continue to make my runs around the Lake and have met more and more runners in the past year. Being a part of the training group has allowed me to focus on something that takes concentration, commitment and dedication. It is that part that allows me to feel strong not just physically but in a way that carries over to the rest of my life. Setting goals and attaining them. I have been running for over 35 years and was setting out for training for the 800 meters mens 50-59 Masters this summer- but along came the marathon and I knew I had to do that first. If I have anything left I will run in the summer. If I can attain an injury free 3 months- and complete the marathon I will see if I can get my speed back. I enjoy the training runs with the other runners and makes the miles go by so much easier and quicker.
I have already lost 10 pounds with the running and eating less (I dont need to carry any extra pounds for 26 miles) not to say I don't eat well- because I do. I go out for a run and sometimes I feel like a complete slog: slow, sore, stiff and heavy. But I know that when I finish I am transformed most of the time. I have dedicated myself to stretching - which does not come easily to runners but is so necessary- the more I run the more I stretch and can see myself FINALLY making progress in the forward bend. Sunday I run a 13 miler or so- followed by a potluck.