When I first signed up for my marathon, I knew the training would be hard. But what I didn’t fully realize was how much it would shape me not just as a runner, but as a person. The long runs, the early mornings, the constant juggling of workouts with everyday life…training for my first marathon has been equal parts humbling, exhausting, and empowering.
The Mental Side of Marathon Training
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that marathon training is just as much a mental game as it is a physical one. There are mornings when the alarm goes off before the sun, and I question why I’m even doing this. There are long runs where the last few miles feel impossible. But then there are also moments of clarity—when the rhythm of my breath syncs with my stride, when I realize I’m running farther than I ever thought possible. Those moments remind me why I started.
Balancing Life and Training
Training for my first marathon hasn’t happened in a vacuum. I’m still a parent, a partner, a worker, and a friend. Some weeks I hit every run; other weeks, life gets messy. And that’s okay. Learning to give myself grace has been one of the biggest lessons of this journey. I’ve realized that missing a run doesn’t define my training—the commitment to showing up again and again does.
Fueling the Miles
Nutrition has also been a huge part of this process. I’ve had to figure out what fuels me best for long runs, what sits well in my stomach, and how to balance training with real-life meals. It’s trial and error, but it’s also a reminder that running doesn’t just happen on the road. It’s supported by everything else I do—how I sleep, how I eat, how I recover.
Looking Ahead
With race day on the horizon, I feel equal parts nervous and excited. I don’t know what it will feel like to cross that finish line, but I do know I’ve already learned so much just by committing to the process. Training for my first marathon has taught me discipline, patience, and resilience in ways I never expected.
Gear That’s Helped Along the Way
Of course, marathon training wouldn’t be possible without the right tools. The right shoes have carried me through the toughest miles, supportive gear like moisture-wicking tops and shorts have kept me comfortable, and fueling gels have powered me through long runs. If you’re starting your own journey, investing in quality running gear can make all the difference. I’ve linked a few of my favorites —shoes I trust, clothing that lasts, and the fuel that actually works. So you can train smarter and feel stronger every step of the way. Oh and don’t forget to read my thoughts on my Garmin Watch!
No matter what the clock says on race day, this journey has been worth it. Every mile has built something deeper—a stronger runner, yes, but also a stronger me.
