Well, I did it. I successfully completed my first marathon. And I actually finished (both physically and chronologically) in much better shape than I anticipated:
My recovery has been easier than anticipated as well. I did rest for most of the afternoon following the run and took off work the following day for more rest, a massage, and yes, a pedicure (I just wanted someone to rub my feet and my wife had already made it known that she would have no part of that). It was nice for me – but probably not for the pedicurist.
Today, three days post-run, I have practically no sore muscles and am feeling totally fine. The training I have been following continues with a recovery training period of 4-5 weeks, so I even have a little jog planned for tomorrow.
I am ending this blog asking the same question I started with over 4 months ago:
Have I lost my mind?
Even though I was feeling a little dazed immediately following the race, I don’t think I actually lost my mind. I did, however, lose several pounds of body fat, many cholesterol points, a few toenails, and a winter glove on my running trail.
Other questions I asked in my very first post, I now also have an answer for:
What if I fall on my face?
- Not applicable
What if I pull my groin?
- Not applicable
What if I don’t finish?
- Not applicable
What if I get lost on the course?
- Not applicable
What if I accidentally drink Powerade instead of Gatorade?
- Race coordinators made certain that ONLY Gatorade was served.
A big thanks to my wife, my parents, and my in-laws for supporting me throughout this endeavor. I appreciate your being there with your signs, balloons, and cheering along the way. I also want to thank those of you who’ve been nice enough to read these posts and leave comments throughout. Your support was inspirational and helped me push through to the finish line.
Keep up your pace,
Kent.
kent s marshall 