
I've never been anxious to run a marathon because of the time involved in training. Birch always predicts that someday I'll catch the marathon bug, but I'm not so sure...
Training for this 10-mile race next weekend has reminded me of why I hesitate to think about a marathon. The main reason is being dependant on other people. If I were single or married with no children it would be easier. Even now I try as hard as I can to do my workouts on my own, bringing Trevor with me. He sits happily in the jogging stroller for intervals and easy runs and hills (ha, ha, not in my neighborhood!) But there are several days a week where I can't take him and I have to negotiate with Birch or find a willing friend. He doesn't come on my long runs on Saturday or to the pool for a break from running.
I've also been surprised at how worried I get when I can't do the workout I'd planned on. When I signed up for the race I wrote out a little plan of how much I would run on what days, the type of workout, etc. so that I would be ready on race day. But, of course, having a baby and even if you don't have kids, there are things that come up and sometimes the exercise doesn't happen.
Obviously the purpose of exercise is to relieve stress and not cause it. My problem is when I get an itch to try something new or at least feel that I've accomplished something....then I look on
Getsetaz.com and sign up for a race. There has to be a balance between reaching goals and not letting them bring stress to your life.