Running Race for the Fall, Everyone Has to Start Somewhere.

One of the biggest times of the year for road racing is right around the corner, the fall. The Chicago Half Marathon is this weekend, Fox Valley Marathon is the following weekend, the Chicago Marathon is October 7, plus many many local 5k, 10k's and lets not forget all the Turkey Trots! Most of you running these larger races are doing your taper running, enjoy the lower mileage in your training AKA the party zone of marathon training. To Those of you going 13.1 or above, GOOD LUCK!I know, those numbers sound intimidating, 13.1, 26.2, 50k, 50 miles, 100 miles. They aren't as frightening as they sound, well maybe the ones after the 26.2 are a little scary and I can admit that as I'm training for my first 50 mile run that is in October. Anyone can go those distances if you train properly. I didn't just say I'm going to run a 50 mile race, I had to start somewhere right?I started actually competing in road races in 2006 with 5k's and then moved up to 10k's. In 2007 I ran my first half marathon and decided I needed to test my mental and physical abilities and signed up to run the 2008 Chicago Marathon. The competiveness in me grew as did my need for another "Runner's High." Since my first marathon I have completed 12 Marathons ( I have the Air Force Marathon next weekend, Chicago Marathon in Oct, and Vegas Marathon in December) 2 Ultra marathon 50k's, a TRI, and I have my first 50 mile race the weekend after the Chicago Marathon. I've kept my plate full with training, which isn't always a good thing, because I love truly love to run. I became a certified distance running coach in July, I think this is my calling. If you or your friends want to get started running or if you are a runner and want to improve times or increase distance I can help you. Check out my website, www.run-endurance.com or email me runningcoach8@gmail.comI am not saying 13.1 or higher is for everyone because it certainly takes up a lot of time to train, but it's never to late to start exercising. We live in a society where life is very busy but people want to stay in shape, gyms can be very expensive. Getting off the couch to walk,  walk-run, or run would make anyone feel better. A good motivator is to sign up for a race, I tell people that's the scariest part of training is making the commitment to a race. Once you're signed up you will train because you don't want to just waste your money. This is something you can do year round, yes even outside in the winter. What about a Turkey Trot? You won't feel nearly as guilty Thanksgiving day if you ran 3.1 miles in the morning. Two and half months to get moving before the race, that's plenty of time. Anyone that has races coming up, it's still very hot out! Fuel, hydrate, and rest. Listen to your body and enjoy the journey. I will post running tips but if you have any questions please feel free to ask. Good luck everyone!