For many a marathon is the ultimate challenge. Completing a 26.2 mile course is a big accomplishment for anyone. People tend to fall into one of three categories: 1. There’s no way I could or ever would do a marathon, 2. I don’t know if I could do a marathon – maybe someday I’ll try it, and 3. I’ve done a marathon.
If you find yourself in category number two, you might be amazed to know that on NBC’s The Biggest Loser the four final contestants completed a full marathon. (You can watch this week’s episode online.) These are individuals that just 18 weeks ago weighed in at 430 pounds, 388 pounds, 257 pounds, and 294 pounds. If they can accomplish this feat just 17 weeks after starting a weight loss program – imagine what you could do.
Participating in a marathon is a serious event. Putting your body through that kind of a challenge is not only tough mentally, but physiologically as well. During prolonged exercise glycogen levels are depleted taking away the high performance fuels our muscles are use to. Your body is actually forced to use fats as fuel. This shift in fuel sources is perceptible and is what is referred to as “hitting the wall” or “bonking”.
Of course, it is doable as thousands of people participate in marathons each year.
If you think you might like to give it a try you can find training programs online. Even if you’ve never run before, you can still do it. Do you think those Biggest Loser contestants were runners four months ago? There are several great training programs that can take you from never having run up to a marathon. Check for local running clubs to find groups to train with.
Half marathons (13.1 miles) are very common as well. This can be a great option for many and still give a great sense of accomplishment. For others even participating in a 10K can be enough of a challenge. Choose your distance, get a training program, and see what you can do!
