~ Entering Google Mode ~
But as fate would have it, the very first search result that Google yielded was a Runner's World article about half marathon training for beginners and would you guess what the very. first. line. said?
~ Entering Challenge Mode ~
I realize this is somewhat of a superficial reason to be undertaking 10 - 14 weeks of training and 13.1 miles at a time. But I just imagine the sense of pride I'll feel at the end of this experience and I want it.
2) For the sense of mental peace and quiet
Training for a half marathon would force me to run more and more outdoors. This is something I rarely do because it tends to take more, shall I say, focus. It's easy (mentally speaking) to hop on the treadmill for a set time and crank it out. It's simple to waltz into the gym and lift some weights in a controlled environment. Outdoor runs are not controlled; they are affected my so many variables. Construction work. Wind. Lack of a nearby bathroom sometimes. As someone recovered from an eating disorder, I still sometimes struggle with giving up all that control. But there's nothing quite as peaceful as getting into a groove in the outdoors and just...doing it. No matter what comes your way.
I've never considered myself a distance runner, but I do consider myself athletic, strong, and determined. I want to push myself to try something difficult, and succeed at it.
4) To have that epic post-run brunch with fellow half marathon-ers
I want all the gluten free pancakes and potatoes and sausage. I want to dive into it and be forced to talk with food in my mouth because that was just so much fun :)
Have you ever run a half marathon (or would you)? What about a full wham bam marathon? How did you train for it? What was the most rewarding part?