It all started innocently. I have been wondering for a while whether I could ever become a strong enough runner to actually complete a marathon. I grew up with asthma, wheezing and panting in gym class, barely running a 12 minute mile. Since discovering that my asthma symptoms are due to my allergies to every plant and animal under the sun, and not "exercise induced," I have become much more athletic. Never a runner per se, I'm willing to give it a try.
I approached RandBall with a statement, "If I ever run a marathon, I should probably do one before we decide to have kids." His prompt response was, "This is the perfect time to do a marathon." Hmmm... no pressure, I hope.
So, in lieu of procreating, we will be focusing the next several months on pounding the pavements of South Minneapolis: around Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun, along Minnehaha Creek, and maybe the occasional jaunt to Saint Paul. (Gasp! Across the river??)
First thing's first- the gear. I bought these fabulous compression running tights, pictured above. I was nervous that my "junk in the trunk" might cause undulating ripples, and despite the old adage 'spandex is a privilege not a right," I have bravely gone where no modest Swedish Lutheran has gone before: into the hotpants, and out the door.
For those truly interested in the wonder of these compression tights- they offer support for the joints, especially the knees, and help prevent injury. They're sized like nylons or tights--you go by height, not traditional clothing size. In my trepidation, I ordered a large, but a medium would have been the more appropriate length.
Last week we logged 30 miles! Six five-mile jogs around Lake Harriet.
This week, we plan to run the regular Lake Harriet run, and work in the circuit between Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun, approximately 7 miles at least once.
Stay tuned for more updates on the training progress.
