Training for a marathon is life‑changing—but it’s also messy, humbling, and sometimes downright gross. In this episode of Behind the Bib, I’m sharing nine things I wish someone had told me before I ever set foot on a starting line.
From the first time I lost a toenail (yep, it happens) to the reality of constant laundry, endless hunger, and juggling shoes for every kind of run, I’m pulling back the curtain on what marathon training is really like. I talk about letting go of perfection, why easy runs sometimes don’t feel easy at all, and how to handle the loneliness that comes with hours on your feet.
If you’re thinking about your first 26.2 -- or you’ve already been through it and just need someone to laugh and commiserate with -- this one’s for you. Lace up, press play, and let’s get real.
LOCAL RACES
Greenway Grand Prix 8k, still building (July 18) Good luck Melanie and Daughter!
PGB Corporate 5K Gold Star "ALOHA Run Edition,” 3 or so grateful miles (July 26) I NEED MY COSTUME!!!
Greenway Grand Prix 10k, a big finale (Aug. 1)
Running of the Bulls 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run, less fun 3 miles, super fun 1 mile (Aug. 23)
Race for Justice, 5k, 10k, 5 and 10ks and competitive sleeping in (Sept. 1)
Rails to Recovery 5k (Sept. 13), 3 or so miles with a purpose
Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5k, 13.1, 3 miles and change (Oct. 25)
Huntsville Half Marathon, 13.1 (Nov. 8)
Dam-Bridge Run 10k, dang ol’ 6 miles over a dam (Nov. 15)
Every Saturday ParkRun - it’s a free, timed 5k put on by the fabulous Alasdair Marshall at Hays Farm.
Useful Links:
Sign up for HuntsvilleRuns.com to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin.
