It's all about the "Why?". Why the f**K am I putting my body and soul through all this agony? The marathon distance is arbitary. You know the history behind it. Leave it be. Now. Perhaps forever. It is not the 'be all and end all' of running. Far from it. Running is there to be enjoyed. Everyday, if possible. Embrace shorter distance races. Keep up the longer easier runs since, as you know, anything above 5K is an endurance event. Multiply those mitochondria. Enjoy those faster interval sessions. 'Go for it' in parkruns, 5K and 10K events. Who cares? Just take care of your body and mind. And support Dawn in her endeavours, of course. Best wishes to you both.
Great video John, loads of common sense and a really pragmatic approach. Why do we put ourselves through it when we don’t really need to? Run what you enjoy, that’s the point isn’t it. Thanks for the honesty. Oh, I may see you tomorrow at Lake V, I’m expecting to be 1:30 to 1:35 ish….he says. 😂 Good luck to you both. 😀
Kudos 👏 it was good to chat “lightly” about this when we spoke in Cardiff but I’m fully with you on the social media marathon pressures… as I mentioned to you at the time, it’ll be my last one until at least next autumn… there are too many good races we all miss whilst marathon training and those races are the ones that light the 🔥 good on you 👊
Yes that conversation fed into this decision. I feel liberated now to focus on what I enjoy, not what I think other might `expect'. If I could run an exceptional time, or be in the hunt for honours it would be worth trying, but a set of numbers far off what I want just isn't worth the investment of time or emotional energy,
Looks like a great decision, John. You've nothing to prove at marathon distance. Perhaps aming for age grading targets at distances you enjoy could combine the running you love with the motivation that comes with target setting? I'm looking forward to your project 39! I'm on project 49 at the moment and am some way off that 😂
I'm 59 and going through the same sort of thing. Down to do the Porto marathon this Autumn and it will probably be my last. These days the 2 hour plus runs just bore me. And the volume of training strips out any real possibility of proper tapering or preparation for running as fast as I know i can over 5 or 10k. Half marathon training gives me many more options simply to run decent times and, most importantly, enjoy it rather than being a slave to it.
Good to hear your thoughts on this, John. Given your recent marathon history, the decision makes sense. The 10k races should be good fun, and very rewarding. Best of luck 👍
Cheers John. First and foremost, running has to be enjoyed so you need to do what makes you the happiest. Won't lie, I'm disappointed you've withdrawn from marathon after a really good solid 10 weeks of training, but also respect the decision. You DO have a good marathon in you but focusing too much on the watch is destroying that. A 3:30 marathon for example would still be a fantastic achievement so please don't lose sight of that. The exceptionally high standards you put upon yourself and the fact everything is documented on the channel, does add pressure but the pressure is only from yourself. I wish you well in the future races.
@@tworunningbrooms Fair enough. Each distance brings its own challenge. Focusing on 10k’s makes perfect sense, especially as you stated in the Q&A that it’s your favourite distance. You can always go back to marathons at a later date. In the meantime, you can support Dawn on her marathon journey.
Super honest stuff . Good luck in the shorter racing John . And perhaps the autumn/ winter break from all things marathon may be enough to feel ready to tackle the brighton block with a fresh outlook . Look forward to seeing your 10k races . “Keep on keeping on “ 👊🏻
A good decision, and honest. I think you will get a lot of benefit out of shorter distances and enjoy them more. I look forward to seeing your Lake Vyrnwy film, I ran it several times and it's my favourite half marathon. Keep on keeping on! 🏃
Running has to be fun, a marathon without desire and confidence is a recipe for disaster. Great decision and look forward to watching your 10K successes
Good on you. I'm 43. Past year haven't really enjoyed running partially because of my fitness so confidence as well. More of a hobby now. Finding joy in working relationship with our creator. Didn't have a balance. Such relatable video in some ways. Thank you.
Interesting video and smart decision. Marathons are no doubt an amazing feat - but I do think the social media surge sometimes means other distances which require their own specific training and hard work get unduly overshadowed. I’ve done one marathon, and had a typical first time experience (okay until 20 miles followed by a death march to the finish). I was proud to have completed it and to have kept running when everything in me wanted to stop, but like you touched on, it was a result that wasn’t reflective of my potential and I got injured afterwards. Was it worth it? Not sure. I’d also choose to do a short sharp interval session on the track over a slow long run all day long! I know of plenty of folk who’ve entered and trained for marathons when their heart hasn’t really been in it, because it’s what everyone appears to be doing. It never ends well. Gotta enjoy what you’re doing to fully thrive! 😊 Keep smashing those 5Ks 💪
I think thats a great decision, I feel like you enjoyed and had a lot of success on the track and with the 5 and 10k this year. Hopefully the fire in your belly for the marathon will come back before your next one 👍 Looking forward to project 39!
Thanks Sam. I would still love to nail a marathon when all ducks in a row. But that's not right now. Or I might just settle for Coros just telling me what shape I'm in and taking that time 😀 Down to 3:08 today.
I applaud your decision John and if you look back over the year I think you were already doubting whether the marathon was really still for you. The superb training block you have built has got to pay dividends for you at your targeted races so the very best of luck to you.
Honest as ever, fair play. As per your sentiment we should be doing what we enjoy most not what we think we should be doing. The Flanders race sounds amazing. I've visited Ypres and my great uncle's grave in Harelbeke. Very moving and beautiful war grave cemeteries.
Good video John, by doing the faster races that you enjoy, probably will prepare you for a good marathon later down the line, I think when ya are doing a marathon training block if ya can, really get to enjoy the long 30km weekend slow run, with out worrying about speed at all, is a huge help towards feeling confident of doing a good marathon time, good luck, keep on keeping on
Good on you and I'm doing exactly the same after Valencia, going right back to training for a mile, then 5k, and10k etc, bringing some speed in before its too late, before maybe a marathon in Autumn 2025.
I’m thinking same. Started distance running in retirement. I’ve done 2 marathons in last 2 years. I have one this month and one in December. I’m never going to be fast 4:00 best case. Too much training. Also, races stress me out and I’d rather run for health. P.S. also using a Parkes plan 😀
Doing what you enjoy the most does always lead to the best results, both in terms of performance and positive experience. Road marathons are a huge investment of time, effort and emntal energy. You have to be in a good position to start with to take that on with any amount of success. A wise decision.
Just signed up for my first marathon since 2011.Ran 3:27 at the age of 59. It's a flat one and I'm not interested in how long it takes. Never been a speedy runner but I am able to complete long runs at a reasonable pace. It will be my last one, at 72 years old I don't want to make a habit of it.
Yes that's a good attitude. Completing it as a personal challenge. I'm still too competitive in my own head to settle for a time I'm not happy with at present. That time will come I'm sure.
@@tworunningbrooms ran a 10 miler yesterday with 85% in Zone 2 and 15% in Zone 1. If I continued at this "speed", would a marathon be a fairly easy prospect? Or easier?
@stevemozzie6497 For us older runners it's whether the legs would last the distance. We're like cars with superb classic engines but the bodywork might need attention
Hi John, I totally understand - wise decision 🙏🏻As you may know, I can't even face a half marathon at the moment !😂 I've been working with sciatica for the last year - although I'm getting on top of it at the moment ! Marathons can be very beguiling but also awful experiences - as well as wonderful, of course, at times! - and not worth the cost this time for you - on all levels as you say 🙏🏻 The most important thing is to be true to ourselves always ❤
Yes as you know from long experience, everything has to feel and be right - not just the training but everything else in life as you say in your videos. And I'm not there at the minute. But I can get fired for 5ks and 10ks.
Ahh, that's a shame, but I totally get it. When you know, you know. It's healthy to cycle through the distances - the urge might come back again and you'll be ready when it does. Going to check out the Flanders Field marathon. I have a Great Great Uncle buried just down the road from the Menin gate in a small little residential area with a WW1 cemetery attached to it - it's a very powerful place to visit.
Sounds like a sound decision John. I love racing 5 & 10K's and have never had any interest in running a marathon. Have always performed better over the shorter distances and deep down I know that there is little chance of me hitting my potential marathon time based on my best times over shorter distances.
A no-brainer given the evidence presented, I'm looking forward to Project 39 already. One of my greatest running experiences was the Boston Marathon 2022. I didn't train for it, ran for pleasure, no time goal, no watch. I don't think you should close the door to adventures of that type, which are best enjoyed free of unnecessary performance expectations.
Smart decision. Too many club runners waste their efforts on the marathon. Good luck with the shorter stuff, I think you’ll get more satisfaction and enjoyment.
You should make more 12sec videos. I enjoyed that 😂😂😂 I get what you're saying. I'm feeling a bit that way too. I had blood test done again this week and my iron and hematocrit is really low again which is mentally as well as physiologically crushing. I remember you doing those 10k and 5k races. Sounds like a good plan.
Good decision John The increased marathon mileage will help your shorter races,you still have leg speed as reflected in your recent shorter events. Sometimes it’s better not to put all your eggs in the marathon basket
You should be in a good place now for the cross country season Build some strength and some speed over shorter distance Then springboard into the new season next year.
I have been racing for 43 years am 84 have done 1 marathon 1 half and a 15 mile race in 1.33. Lots of 10 milers best time 58.35 many 10ks numerous 5ks took up track at 70 years old 1milers 1500 meter races 800s 400s 200s best time 34.6 at 75 years old, 100 meters 16+ second loads of relays and road relays T&F is so much more fun than bloody marathons you can do half a dozen events at a meet and the camaraderie is great and I still have my own knees unlike some of my fellow club members all marathon obsessers crocked at 50. Good desision my local parkrun V75 record still stands at 23.04 it got faster with the sprint training.
Yeah I sensed your heart wasn't really in it and it is largely, injury aside, why I am also not that bothered about marathons right now as there is an element of been there, done that and however well we do now it won't likley overly satisfy us. Not sure what it is about marathons and running RUclipsrs but for some it seems a bit of an obsession and I really don't get running them over and over when nowhere near full fitness. That said everybody has different reasons for running and attending races but I can never really get my head round turning up to a race and not trying and/or being unable to try properly due to an injury etc etc
I probably could have run `properly' off the training I've done but the result just doesn't motivate me - as you say, the time wouldn't satisfy. If I could win a medal, or shoot for representative honours, or a club age group record then it would be worth it. But I'm nowhere near at present. The marathon distance is just an abstract number anyway.
Im just trying to hit a Sub 4 hour marathon before I turn 40, then I think I'll cut back distances and work on half marathons and 10k. Marathon training really takes it out of me.
Dude. Why don't you go up, instead of down? I'm all marathoned out myself at the age of 50 after running a 2:52 about 5 years ago. I find that trail running is almost a different sport in comparison and a good way to find new motivation. If you can't go faster anymore, go longer! I don't see how doing 10k races can be rewarding when it's a distance you can and do in training all the time for free. All the best from Japan.
I've done a few longer trail races. 1. The longer I go the more I get the fatigue issues. 2. I can't get my head around the stop / start nature of them. Yes I can run 10k any day of the week. The challenge which motivates me is to run it in a particular time rather than just completing it.
Shame your not doing the marathon but No shame in making that call, as you iluded too a taper and the n recovery period after the marathons not worth it if you don't feel up to it. Not doing it allows you to continue training at a higher level so if it does come round next April you'll be in fine shape 💪💪 so... Pressures on Dawn now to deliver us a fine marathon result 🧐 (joke)
Haha yes. We all have something that fires us. Yours is a Sub 3 marathon and that's a great and worthwhile target which you are making progress towards. I feel my days are numbered marathon wise so happy to bank the times I have and move on.
Oooh Project 39. ⏱️ 🏃♂️💨👍 That's my next target as well. 🎯 And I'm based in the North West, our paths might cross.😉 I've been out of racing for 15 years so don't know what fast 10k's are out there, any suggestions? Thanks. Keep on keeping on😁
![20 Years of parkrun [] Big Changes [] For Better or Worse? [] What's Next?](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/49Py04U0EsI/mqdefault.jpg)
![20 Years of parkrun [] Big Changes [] For Better or Worse? [] What's Next?](/img/tr.png)
![Knutsford 10K 2024 [] RACE VLOG [] Course PoV [] How I Physically and Mentally Approach A 10K Race](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/a9fMsT-MXGU/mqdefault.jpg)
It's all about the "Why?". Why the f**K am I putting my body and soul through all this agony? The marathon distance is arbitary. You know the history behind it. Leave it be. Now. Perhaps forever. It is not the 'be all and end all' of running. Far from it. Running is there to be enjoyed. Everyday, if possible. Embrace shorter distance races. Keep up the longer easier runs since, as you know, anything above 5K is an endurance event. Multiply those mitochondria. Enjoy those faster interval sessions. 'Go for it' in parkruns, 5K and 10K events. Who cares? Just take care of your body and mind. And support Dawn in her endeavours, of course. Best wishes to you both.
Wise words, Al. Many thanks.
Great video John, loads of common sense and a really pragmatic approach.
Why do we put ourselves through it when we don’t really need to?
Run what you enjoy, that’s the point isn’t it.
Thanks for the honesty.
Oh, I may see you tomorrow at Lake V, I’m expecting to be 1:30 to 1:35 ish….he says. 😂
Good luck to you both. 😀
That's at either end of mine and Dawn's target times! Come and say hello.
Kudos 👏 it was good to chat “lightly” about this when we spoke in Cardiff but I’m fully with you on the social media marathon pressures… as I mentioned to you at the time, it’ll be my last one until at least next autumn… there are too many good races we all miss whilst marathon training and those races are the ones that light the 🔥 good on you 👊
Yes that conversation fed into this decision. I feel liberated now to focus on what I enjoy, not what I think other might `expect'. If I could run an exceptional time, or be in the hunt for honours it would be worth trying, but a set of numbers far off what I want just isn't worth the investment of time or emotional energy,
@@tworunningbrooms don’t blame you at all, good on you 👊
Looks like a great decision, John. You've nothing to prove at marathon distance. Perhaps aming for age grading targets at distances you enjoy could combine the running you love with the motivation that comes with target setting? I'm looking forward to your project 39! I'm on project 49 at the moment and am some way off that 😂
@doingmybest6438 yes I'd love to get 80% at parkrun which is about 18:45 I think. Good luck with your own targets.
I commend you for being real and honest. You must feel much better to have made the call and to do your own thing. Well done.
Thank you Kathryn
I'm 59 and going through the same sort of thing. Down to do the Porto marathon this Autumn and it will probably be my last. These days the 2 hour plus runs just bore me. And the volume of training strips out any real possibility of proper tapering or preparation for running as fast as I know i can over 5 or 10k. Half marathon training gives me many more options simply to run decent times and, most importantly, enjoy it rather than being a slave to it.
Yes that's where I am these days.
Good to hear your thoughts on this, John. Given your recent marathon history, the decision makes sense. The 10k races should be good fun, and very rewarding. Best of luck 👍
Thank Mark
Cheers John. First and foremost, running has to be enjoyed so you need to do what makes you the happiest.
Won't lie, I'm disappointed you've withdrawn from marathon after a really good solid 10 weeks of training, but also respect the decision.
You DO have a good marathon in you but focusing too much on the watch is destroying that.
A 3:30 marathon for example would still be a fantastic achievement so please don't lose sight of that.
The exceptionally high standards you put upon yourself and the fact everything is documented on the channel, does add pressure but the pressure is only from yourself.
I wish you well in the future races.
Thank you Colin. I am very competitive and I'm just not there to run what I think would be a competitive marathon time.
@@tworunningbrooms Fair enough.
Each distance brings its own challenge. Focusing on 10k’s makes perfect sense, especially as you stated in the Q&A that it’s your favourite distance.
You can always go back to marathons at a later date.
In the meantime, you can support Dawn on her marathon journey.
Super honest stuff . Good luck in the shorter racing John .
And perhaps the autumn/ winter break from all things marathon may be enough to feel ready to tackle the brighton block with a fresh outlook .
Look forward to seeing your 10k races . “Keep on keeping on “ 👊🏻
Yes I need a fresh perspective, even if it's a `I'm going to complete this then put it to bed'.
A good decision, and honest.
I think you will get a lot of benefit out of shorter distances and enjoy them more.
I look forward to seeing your Lake Vyrnwy film, I ran it several times and it's my favourite half marathon.
Keep on keeping on! 🏃
Yes really looking forward to hit. A real gem.
Running has to be fun, a marathon without desire and confidence is a recipe for disaster. Great decision and look forward to watching your 10K successes
Thank you Mark
Good on you. I'm 43. Past year haven't really enjoyed running partially because of my fitness so confidence as well. More of a hobby now. Finding joy in working relationship with our creator. Didn't have a balance. Such relatable video in some ways. Thank you.
Ah the higher purpose. Yes nothing happens in a spiritual vacuum.
Good for you John, the marathon training so far has done you good for the shorter distances so good luck with the races to come
Yes win/win I hope.
Interesting video and smart decision. Marathons are no doubt an amazing feat - but I do think the social media surge sometimes means other distances which require their own specific training and hard work get unduly overshadowed. I’ve done one marathon, and had a typical first time experience (okay until 20 miles followed by a death march to the finish). I was proud to have completed it and to have kept running when everything in me wanted to stop, but like you touched on, it was a result that wasn’t reflective of my potential and I got injured afterwards. Was it worth it? Not sure. I’d also choose to do a short sharp interval session on the track over a slow long run all day long! I know of plenty of folk who’ve entered and trained for marathons when their heart hasn’t really been in it, because it’s what everyone appears to be doing. It never ends well. Gotta enjoy what you’re doing to fully thrive! 😊 Keep smashing those 5Ks 💪
It's always good to be open to a change in direction. Looking forward to seeing how you transition your training for the shorter/faster distances 🚀
Thank you Steven. I was going in that direction anyway - just brought it forward a few weeks.
Glad you made this call. There are lots of really fun things to do in the 5k, 10k and half marathon distances. Enjoy!
Thank you Simon
I think thats a great decision, I feel like you enjoyed and had a lot of success on the track and with the 5 and 10k this year. Hopefully the fire in your belly for the marathon will come back before your next one 👍 Looking forward to project 39!
Thanks Sam. I would still love to nail a marathon when all ducks in a row. But that's not right now. Or I might just settle for Coros just telling me what shape I'm in and taking that time 😀 Down to 3:08 today.
I applaud your decision John and if you look back over the year I think you were already doubting whether the marathon was really still for you. The superb training block you have built has got to pay dividends for you at your targeted races so the very best of luck to you.
Thanks. Yes the numbers weren't moving anywhere near to a place that would give me a sense of satisfaction.
Honest as ever, fair play. As per your sentiment we should be doing what we enjoy most not what we think we should be doing. The Flanders race sounds amazing. I've visited Ypres and my great uncle's grave in Harelbeke. Very moving and beautiful war grave cemeteries.
Yes there is a special feel to that area - it's a great race and they also have a half marathon.
Your openness is commendable and you’ve made the right decision for you. Nothing else matters, and this was an excellent video.
Appreciate that, Julian.
Good for you. I think you've made absolutely the right decision. Do what works for YOU!
Thank Lesley
Decision made and good for you. Looking forward to following along for the 10k training 🎉
Thank you Caroline.
@@tworunningbrooms that’s why I love your Channel. You both keep true to yourselves and make wise choices. Respect you for that 👊🏻
Totally understandable decision and may I say wise. best of luck to you both for the half marathon race, you'll put that training into practice!
Thanks Chloe you too.
Good video John, by doing the faster races that you enjoy, probably will prepare you for a good marathon later down the line, I think when ya are doing a marathon training block if ya can, really get to enjoy the long 30km weekend slow run, with out worrying about speed at all, is a huge help towards feeling confident of doing a good marathon time, good luck, keep on keeping on
Thanks Reece. Yes I enjoy the training but not the fact it isn't mapping onto performance once I pin a number on.
Good on you and I'm doing exactly the same after Valencia, going right back to training for a mile, then 5k, and10k etc, bringing some speed in before its too late, before maybe a marathon in Autumn 2025.
Mile sounds good. Basic speed then build up from there.
I’m thinking same. Started distance running in retirement. I’ve done 2 marathons in last 2 years. I have one this month and one in December. I’m never going to be fast 4:00 best case. Too much training. Also, races stress me out and I’d rather run for health. P.S. also using a Parkes plan 😀
Yes the plan is great and the training worthwhile. Not sure the 4 hour battering is though
Doing what you enjoy the most does always lead to the best results, both in terms of performance and positive experience. Road marathons are a huge investment of time, effort and emntal energy. You have to be in a good position to start with to take that on with any amount of success. A wise decision.
Thanks Jess. Yes it's just a distance that some people happen to favour.
Great insight. Great forest scenery....👍👍
Thanks - it's Sandal Beat Woods next to Doncaster Racecourse.
Looking forward to the 10K training coverage and any tips you impart ❤
Thanks Mack
Just signed up for my first marathon since 2011.Ran 3:27 at the age of 59. It's a flat one and I'm not interested in how long it takes. Never been a speedy runner but I am able to complete long runs at a reasonable pace. It will be my last one, at 72 years old I don't want to make a habit of it.
Yes that's a good attitude. Completing it as a personal challenge. I'm still too competitive in my own head to settle for a time I'm not happy with at present. That time will come I'm sure.
@@tworunningbrooms ran a 10 miler yesterday with 85% in Zone 2 and 15% in Zone 1. If I continued at this "speed", would a marathon be a fairly easy prospect? Or easier?
@stevemozzie6497 For us older runners it's whether the legs would last the distance. We're like cars with superb classic engines but the bodywork might need attention
Hi John, I totally understand - wise decision 🙏🏻As you may know, I can't even face a half marathon at the moment !😂 I've been working with sciatica for the last year - although I'm getting on top of it at the moment !
Marathons can be very beguiling but also awful experiences - as well as wonderful, of course, at times! - and not worth the cost this time for you - on all levels as you say 🙏🏻 The most important thing is to be true to ourselves always ❤
Yes as you know from long experience, everything has to feel and be right - not just the training but everything else in life as you say in your videos. And I'm not there at the minute. But I can get fired for 5ks and 10ks.
Yes, yes 🙌I totally understand ✨️Sending lots of good vibes for the new path ahead ✨️ And to Dawn as she approaches her marathon ✨️
Ahh, that's a shame, but I totally get it. When you know, you know. It's healthy to cycle through the distances - the urge might come back again and you'll be ready when it does. Going to check out the Flanders Field marathon. I have a Great Great Uncle buried just down the road from the Menin gate in a small little residential area with a WW1 cemetery attached to it - it's a very powerful place to visit.
I think the race runs past that before turning right through the gate into the Market Place. There is a Half Marathon too on the same day.
Sounds like a sound decision John. I love racing 5 & 10K's and have never had any interest in running a marathon. Have always performed better over the shorter distances and deep down I know that there is little chance of me hitting my potential marathon time based on my best times over shorter distances.
Yes Geoff I'm in the same place.
A no-brainer given the evidence presented, I'm looking forward to Project 39 already.
One of my greatest running experiences was the Boston Marathon 2022. I didn't train for it, ran for pleasure, no time goal, no watch.
I don't think you should close the door to adventures of that type, which are best enjoyed free of unnecessary performance expectations.
Yes agreed Gary - but racing for times is on the back burner for now.
Smart decision. Too many club runners waste their efforts on the marathon. Good luck with the shorter stuff, I think you’ll get more satisfaction and enjoyment.
Thanks. Yes that's the plan!
You should make more 12sec videos. I enjoyed that 😂😂😂
I get what you're saying. I'm feeling a bit that way too. I had blood test done again this week and my iron and hematocrit is really low again which is mentally as well as physiologically crushing.
I remember you doing those 10k and 5k races. Sounds like a good plan.
Oh no Neil just when thing were looking up. Hope it's temporary.
Good luck
did WaterGrove park run today knocking 51 seconds off my PB finishing in 24.04 coming 6th out of 52
Well done Michael.
Too much time & commitment for minimal returns. 10k is enough for 95% of people. However, if they are your thing, then carry on enjoying them.
Agreed
Good decision John
The increased marathon mileage will help your shorter races,you still have leg speed as reflected in your recent shorter events.
Sometimes it’s better not to put all your eggs in the marathon basket
Yes especially when chances of that basket splitting are high!
@@tworunningbrooms exactly
And especially when it’s one day per mile raced for recovery 🧐🤔that’s a whole month
You should be in a good place now for the cross country season
Build some strength and some speed over shorter distance
Then springboard into the new season next year.
We looked at our local XC league an all the races are on a Sunday and clash with other races we have entered. Might look at the Jan - March ones.
I have been racing for 43 years am 84 have done 1 marathon 1 half and a 15 mile race in 1.33. Lots of 10 milers best time 58.35 many 10ks numerous 5ks took up track at 70 years old 1milers 1500 meter races 800s 400s 200s best time 34.6 at 75 years old,
100 meters 16+ second loads of relays and road relays T&F is so much more fun than bloody marathons you can do half a dozen events at a meet and the camaraderie is great and I still have my own knees unlike some of my fellow club members all marathon obsessers crocked at 50. Good desision my local parkrun V75 record still stands at 23.04 it got faster with the sprint training.
Yep in agreement. We did some vets track in the summer and really enjoyed the community and accessibility of it all.
I love 10k. My favourite is York. Flat and fast. I could recommend lots of 10ks.
I have my eye on a few. Hull too run by Run For All.
Yeah I sensed your heart wasn't really in it and it is largely, injury aside, why I am also not that bothered about marathons right now as there is an element of been there, done that and however well we do now it won't likley overly satisfy us. Not sure what it is about marathons and running RUclipsrs but for some it seems a bit of an obsession and I really don't get running them over and over when nowhere near full fitness. That said everybody has different reasons for running and attending races but I can never really get my head round turning up to a race and not trying and/or being unable to try properly due to an injury etc etc
I probably could have run `properly' off the training I've done but the result just doesn't motivate me - as you say, the time wouldn't satisfy. If I could win a medal, or shoot for representative honours, or a club age group record then it would be worth it. But I'm nowhere near at present. The marathon distance is just an abstract number anyway.
Im just trying to hit a Sub 4 hour marathon before I turn 40, then I think I'll cut back distances and work on half marathons and 10k. Marathon training really takes it out of me.
Yes it's sapping for often not great returns
Dude. Why don't you go up, instead of down? I'm all marathoned out myself at the age of 50 after running a 2:52 about 5 years ago. I find that trail running is almost a different sport in comparison and a good way to find new motivation. If you can't go faster anymore, go longer! I don't see how doing 10k races can be rewarding when it's a distance you can and do in training all the time for free. All the best from Japan.
I've done a few longer trail races.
1. The longer I go the more I get the fatigue issues.
2. I can't get my head around the stop / start nature of them.
Yes I can run 10k any day of the week. The challenge which motivates me is to run it in a particular time rather than just completing it.
@@tworunningbrooms Gotcha. Thanks for the reply and best of luck!
Shame your not doing the marathon but No shame in making that call, as you iluded too a taper and the n recovery period after the marathons not worth it if you don't feel up to it. Not doing it allows you to continue training at a higher level so if it does come round next April you'll be in fine shape 💪💪 so... Pressures on Dawn now to deliver us a fine marathon result 🧐 (joke)
Haha yes. We all have something that fires us. Yours is a Sub 3 marathon and that's a great and worthwhile target which you are making progress towards.
I feel my days are numbered marathon wise so happy to bank the times I have and move on.
Oooh Project 39. ⏱️ 🏃♂️💨👍
That's my next target as well. 🎯
And I'm based in the North West, our paths might cross.😉 I've been out of racing for 15 years so don't know what fast 10k's are out there, any suggestions? Thanks. Keep on keeping on😁
Hi. I'd look at Wilmslow Festive 10k. The RunThrough Tatton Park 10k. And Knutsford 10k which I had hoped to run but was too late to get a number.
@@tworunningbrooms Thanks John