This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Northwestern chapter.
Proud and sweaty after running my first marathon!
Running a marathon seems like one of those “once in a lifetime” things, but after completing my first, I’m hooked. Running has always been a passion of mine, but the 26.2 miles were a challenge that pushed my body to a new boundary while somehow simultaneously being one of the best experiences of my lifetime. Although the distance can seem frightening, these are some of the reasons you should give the race a try:
1. Training is grueling, but empowering.
There is something distinctly satisfying about telling anyone that you went for a 13, 16, or 20 mile training run. Heck, it’s even satisfying to say to yourself, “Hey, I just ran for two hours. I’m so strong!” This kind of training gave me a new kind of appreciation for my body. Although body positivity is hard, when you see what it can accomplish, you begin to appreciate every bit of it.
2. You have so many supporters.
One difference that a marathon has in comparison to other races—especially in big races like the Chicago Marathon—is that there are spectators on every inch of the course. There was not one moment when I didn’t see a supporter. People made signs with funny sayings or things like, “You go stranger!” It was such a supportive environment for the actual race that the miles go by a lot more quickly than you’d expect. If you are feeling in pain, other runners even cheer you on. Not only that, but in your weeks of training you have the endless support of loved ones because even the training is hard and people acknowledge that.
3. It adds structure and discipline.
While going out for a 3- or 4-mile run doesn’t take much time, getting into the longer runs takes a lot of planning. Sticking to a training schedule requires organization that gives some structure to your daily routines. Actually following through and doing every run teaches discipline that is so useful in other parts of your life. Actually running 26.2 miles takes a kind of mental discipline that you never realize you had.
4. It gives you time to think, talk and socialize.
Finding people to train with is something I recommend since running for 3 hours alone can get lonely, but there is a certain peace to taking that time for yourself. In my own training, running gives you some “me” time to think over things and take a breather from normal stress. Otherwise it gives you ample time to check out new music, podcasts, audio shows, books, etc. that you’ve been meaning to get to. If you do find people to train with (or people to bike alongside you!) it’s an awesome way to meet new people and it gives you tons of time to hear great stories and learn more about people and socialize – something that can be hard to fit in with busy college schedules!
Although running such a long distance is daunting, any collegiette in good health truly can train for it once putting your mind to it. It is an impressive feat that feels unlike anything else to accomplish. We at HC believe that women should feel healthy, empowered and positive in their lives, and running a marathon made me feel just that.