So I just finished my first marathon on Saturday. I had run the Baltimore Half-Marathon last year, so naturally I figured the full was well within my grasp.
WRONG!
Let's just say that an extended 8-month taper isn't the best option for running a full marathon. I estimated that my total mileage between 9/1 and 10/11 was less than 20 miles. 13.1 of that came in the Parks Half-Marathon on 9/14.
I found out that running 15 miles isn't too bad if you can do 13.
Running 18 really hurts.
Running 20 really, really hurts.
Walking any distance after running/walking 20 miles hurts badly.
Finishing a marathon by running across the line is an emotional experience.
My advice to you: if you want to run a marathon, get out and run. There is no substitute.
At least not for this Triathlete.
