Preparing for Boston

by Serena Burla on February 26, 2013

I like to think that I’m in the heart of my marathon training build up for Boston right now.  I’m at the point where volume and intensity collide, where recovery in all aspects is critical.  Nutrition, hydration,  sleep, stretching, ice, massage, communication with my coach, and conserving mental energy have never been more important.  I admit that the number of times per day I give thanks for my health and pray for continued health has increased.  My grocery bills have doubled due to increased need to refuel and I think my favorite baker gave me that, “ She’s buying a loaf of bread again today?” look.  I’ll be the first to admit that I am a little more irritable and a little less patient in this cycle.  I find myself deep breathing more purposefully.  Sleep wins over folding and putting away laundry, but as long as it’s clean, there’s no harm in dressing straight from the laundry basket right?  Since previewing the Boston marathon course I am even more focused, visualizing different sections at different points in workouts, playing out different scenarios in my head on easy runs. 

In workouts I  am digging that much deeper because I know the Boston marathon is going to require as much strength, energy, and mental toughness as I can muster and there is no easy way out.  Truth be told I wouldn’t want the easy way out; deep down this nitty gritty, pedal to the metal, grind it out phase of marathon training is what I love the most.  It’s what I cherish, look forward to, it is what fuels me to compete.  If you have ever done or are currently in marathon training you know what I mean, it’s the essence of the marathon…how far can I push the envelope?  We all hope it pays off come race day. 

When I was at the starting line to preview the course, the permanent starting line painted on the narrow Main Street was like a magical calling, a runner’s siren if you may.  Sensing the history and the 26.2 miles that lay ahead, I got the chills.  I became aware of the nerves and excitement that I would feel the next time I was at this spot.  Running on and driving the course was a reminder of the work that needs to be done before I even embark on my race day journey.  I don’t know exactly what April 15 has in store for me, but I am currently preparing as best as I can, one day at a time.

~Serena