Boston Bound?

I know, it is meatless Monday…but today is a day that only comes around once a year. The Boston Marathon is going on as we speak, and an American has not won Boston since 1983. Ryan Hall is currently in the lead but there has been many times where he starts off great and fades out towards the end. I am nervous!

Anyways… I have been watching this movie called The Spirit of The Marathon every night before I go to bed. Running consumed my thoughts about 50% of the time but now it is about 100% of the time, I even dream about it. The movie follows various types of runners. From the 12:00 minute a mile pace runner who just wants to finish to the elite runners with 5:00 minute mile paces and rigorous training schedules. Following these people in their marathon running quest was really interesting. Especially the Elite runners. Not only does it put me in the mood to run but it makes me wonder…what defines someone as having elite running abilities? Is it something you are born with or can anyone train to elite level? Do I have elite running potential in me? Do you?

I am really competitive in everything I do which is also a downfall because it is one of the things that makes me anxious and not compete at all. If I could learn how to control the anxiousness then perhaps this could be a benefit. I am beginning to wonder though, how far could I push myself? How fast can I really run, or how high can I get my Vo2 Max? The best part about distance running is that for women the prime time in their running career is usually in their 30’s. For example elite runner and olympian Deena Kastor with a Vo2 max of 81 at the age of 35.  I believe my estimated Vo2 max is around 47-48….so she kicks my ass. Props to you Deena.

I have been inspired to train harder, and smarter. I have a little bit of a marathon itch. But most importantly I need to learn to relax because all of my training will go to waste otherwise. I need to find that balance. How do the pro’s do it?