The Book That Started It All…..10+ Years Ago

I think it is important to explain where this all began. Here is my best attempt:

You can often find me at my local bookstore, perusing the dorky "Self-Improvement" section, looking for a little inspiration or hope. Sometimes, I read about relationships, travel or money management. Most times, I read about all of the exercise and healthy habits that I wish were a more consistent part of my life.

I have owned the book pictured above for more than ten years. Since purchasing it, I have read it a countless number of times. Right now, you are probably wondering, why bother? You either read it, run it and be done with it, or forget about it and admit that you're not going to do it. Believe me, I rationally agree with you.

Let me tell you a little about the book. Maybe then you'll see why I love it and think I can do this...or maybe you'll still think I'm silly, in which case, feel free to leave me a comment and bring me back to reality. Either way, here goes:

• It was written by two college professors about a course they teach called "Seminar in Fitness and Mental Health." The sole purpose of the course is to train for and run a marathon. Hundreds of people have taken the course. All but one have completed the marathon (the reason for the one guy not finishing is discussed in the book--lack of hydration, I think). Almost all of the participants have never run more than 3 miles. 3 miles! Now I have your attention!
• The book gives detailed descriptions of one semester's participants--some are 50+ years old, some are more than 80 pounds overweight. Now you're really listening, right?
• One intriguing part of the book for me is that each chapter (corresponding to a week of training) is divided into three sections. One of the sections is all about the mental training and toughness aspect of running a marathon. I LOVE this part. I'll delve into more detail about this in future posts.
• The last thing that I think makes this book's concepts so tangible is that the beginning of the training schedule starts with only having to be able to walk 30 minutes at moderate speed (3.0-3.5 mph on a treadmill). The first three weeks are ONLY WALKING--three weeks to work up to the running!

I've never felt like a good runner. I'm just so slow. If I can build up my endurance and muscle stamina by starting with walking, who knows, maybe even I can run a marathon!