Let’s get the eats out of the way – I have a fun announcement!

 

I went to Great Harvest to pick up some dinner rolls for a little get-together I’m hosted tonight and snagged a free sample of the Red, White, and Blue loaf.  It was a sweet bread with real raspberries and blueberries mixed in!

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Lunch was full of veggies.  I’m really trying to pack in those veggies lately!

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I had a salad with cucumbers, carrots, and kidney beans, as well as a side of broccoli + blue chips.

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Not a very exciting lunch, but a healthy one.  🙂

 

Oops, I Did It Again

 

Soooo.  Fun announcement!  Yesterday morning, I was in quite the groggy state between birth control pill withdrawal and general life freak-out about the book release.  For some reason, I thought it was be the ideal time to whip out my credit card and sign up for…

MY SECOND MARATHON!

 

Alright, so it was a pretty serious impulse buy, but the more and more I think about it, the more excited I get to run 26.2 miles again!

 

In case you haven’t been reading for long, here’s a summary of my journey to 26.2:

 

  • Started running seriously when I was 22.  Never, ever considered running a marathon.  Aren’t the only people who do that absolutely insane (yes)?
  • In 2008, I started to run Half Marathons (recaps of my first, second, and third).  Realized that long distance races are awesome.  Nothing feels as great as working so hard for so long and crossing that finish line!

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  • At the time time, I began to have knee problems, which sidelined me completely for 2.5 months.  I eventually figured out how to “cure” my knee problems and began to run without pain again.
  • Started to dream about doing 26.2 miles…
  • My friend Megan was diagnosed with leukemia for the second time.  This motivated me to spontaneously sign up for Team in Training and do the Disney Marathon in her honor. 
  • On January 10, 2010, I ran my first marathon (recap) with my BFF Lauren.  We ran the entire race together and finished in 4:53.  Considering the weather conditions and the fact that both Lauren and I had emotional meltdowns at different points, I was very happy with my time.  I wrote afterwards that “I’m still in disbelief that Lauren and I did it – running 26.2 miles was so, so much harder than I thought it would be!”  I actually suffered an injury during the race – here’s a recap of my post-marathon body. 

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  • Due to my foot injury (which ended up just being an “angry tendon” due to the intense cold during the race – it was 19 degrees in Orlando!), I felt really turned off by the marathon for a LONG, LONG time.  In fact, I probably wrote on the blog that I would “never” do another marathon.  Only recently did I begin to reconsider it.

 

My second marathon will be in Charlotte on December 11, 2010.  That’s exactly 140 days (20 weeks) from now, which works out pretty perfectly because that’s about how long marathon training should be when you’re already comfortably running 10Ks (which I am right now).

 

Although I’ve only done one other marathon, I learned a LOT.  Here’s what I’m going to do the same:

 

  • Not Care About My Time (Again):   I’m not setting a time goal for this marathon.  It’s going to be cold (but hopefully not as cold as Disney), and I hear the course is hilly.  I just want to run 26.2 miles again as fast as I can that day.  I’m not trying to impress anyone but myself.  :)  Whether I cross the line in 4:30 or 5:00, I’ll be happy.

 

  • Run a 22-Miler:  A lot of people said I was screwing up by doing a 22-mile long run before the marathon (the typical long run is 20 miles).  But, I personally think it was the best decision I could’ve made.  Running 22 miles is SO much closer to 26.2 than 20.  Let me tell you, you don’t know what those last few miles are going to be like until you actually run them.  I had a total meltdown at Mile 23 during Disney, so I’m really grateful I ran 22 – what if I had the meltdown at Mile 21?  Ugh! 

 

Here’s what I’m going to do differently:

 

  • Not Be As Crazy About Training:  I was REALLY nutty about training for Disney.  I developed a 21-week long training plan and stuck to it almost religiously.  I was very nervous about doing 26.2 miles and felt like I had to be “perfect” in training to succeed.  This time around, I’m NOT going to develop an intense training plan – I *know* what I need to do to succeed (run 20 – 35 miles a week and do one long run every weekend, with some step-down weeks in between).  Instead, I’m going to lay out my long runs in advance, but only plan the rest of my runs each Monday.  This will allow me greater flexibility and help me stay sane.  I recommend novices use training plans, though!

 

  • Actually Do Speedwork:  Training for Disney wiped my ability to run with speed because I was focusing only on distance.  I am going to do one 4 – 6 mile speedwork session per week this time around.

 

  • Yoga is My Friend:  I’m going to try to focus on stretching and yoga.  I think part of my foot issues were related to never stretching during Disney. 

 

  • Make the Taper Shorter:  I tapered WAY TOO long for Disney, and I think it really screwed me over.  I tapered for three weeks, mostly due to a vacation to England over Christmas break.  I’m only going to taper for 1.5 weeks before Marathon #2.  I think everyone is different, but long tapers don’t work for me.

 

  • The BIG One… Run Alone:  The biggest difference?  I’m going to do this marathon ALONE.  BFF Lauren was a huge help when I had the meltdown, and I’m SO glad I got to share that experience with her – I would never change it.  But I want to see what I can do alone against the 26.2-mile beast.  It’s scary to think about doing it alone, but also exciting!

 

If you’ve run the same race distance twice, what lessons have you learned?  What things would you keep the same?

{ 141 comments }

 

  • Little Bookworm July 23, 2010, 2:16 pm

    Good luck for training for the marathon! 🙂

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs July 23, 2010, 2:18 pm

    :O you’re doing another one – YAY!!! I’m so happy for you! And I’m glad to see you’re not worrying about time – I read so much about marathoners dissing folk who do it in 4hr30 (my goal) so it’s LOVELY to hear about someone else who isn’t aiming for 5min mile pace 😛
    Good luck with it!

  • Dorry July 23, 2010, 2:21 pm

    This is awesome! I admire you running it alone and think it will be an amazingly rewarding experience. 🙂

  • Estela @ Weekly Bite July 23, 2010, 2:22 pm

    Yay!!! That’s so great that you signed up for a second marathon!! You’re going to do great! I love all the changes are making to your training! Yoga is the best for marathon runners 🙂

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) July 23, 2010, 2:22 pm

    girl, you are crazy…in a good way 🙂

    i would say that your goals sound good, especially not caring about your time. just relax and enjoy the fact that you CAN run a marathon! 🙂

  • Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin July 23, 2010, 2:23 pm

    Though I’ve never done a marathon, I’ve run several 5ks and 10ks. I think the biggest thing I learned from my first race to my second was to pace myself! Because I haven’t done long distances my training hasn’t been as extensive, but I’m currently training for a half marathon in September and I’ve really nailed down a training schedule and am trying to stick with it!

  • Ashley M. [at] (never home)maker July 23, 2010, 2:23 pm

    Good luck with you training, Caitlin! I’m running my second marathon in October — hoping to break the 4 hour mark . . . but will be happy (again) just to finish. It’s a long journey, but definitely very satisfying. However, I think after this next marathon (depending on how it goes), I may stick with halfs. As much as I’m enjoying my training, I don’t feel like super long distance is the best fit for me. I like more variety.

    ANYWAY — congrats on signing up. I’ll be happy to follow your training!

  • Christine July 23, 2010, 2:23 pm

    AWESOME! Can’t wait to hear about your training in the coming months! 🙂

  • Juliene July 23, 2010, 2:24 pm

    Yay how exciting. Your big day is my 26th birthday and 1 year wedding anniversary. You’ll do great, only amazing things happen that day!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:25 pm

      Yay! happy pre-birthday and anniversary!

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine July 23, 2010, 2:24 pm

    So exciting!! I’m glad you’re not focusing much on time- I feel like a lot of bloggers really pressure themselves to run under X, and it’s supposed to be something you do for you 🙂 Can’t wait to hear about training!

    Oh, and that red white and blue loaf is making my mouth water!

  • Kaitlin July 23, 2010, 2:24 pm

    Caitlin this is AWESOME!!! You are incredible and such an inspiration. You will rock this marathon!

    I’m training for my first half this october! Can’t wait to follow you on your path to training– there’s nothing more motivating than reading about other people’s runs before you take off for one yourself!

  • tanyasdaily July 23, 2010, 2:25 pm

    Your salads look so good…GOOD JOB ON SIGNING UP

  • Tina July 23, 2010, 2:25 pm

    Congrats! You have a smart head on your shoulders and will do this well. Treating your body with respect and accomplishing something great in the process. I’m so excited for you!!!

  • Lauren @ The Raw Cure July 23, 2010, 2:25 pm

    I am so excited for you! Are you going to update us with your weekly training? Knowing you, you will, but I’d love to be kept super informed, including details! Thanks!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 2:27 pm

      definitely! i just hated the feeling of personally looking at a 21-week long plan with all these freaking numbers in it. LOL but I’ll do an excel spreadsheet for other people to check out as I go and of course I’ll blogzzz about it.

  • Bethany @ More Fruit Please July 23, 2010, 2:25 pm

    Wow, I’m excited to read about your training! I’m just getting into running, so this should be good motivation! Oh, and I need to find the nearest Great Harvest… that bread looks awesome!

  • Lizzy July 23, 2010, 2:27 pm

    YAYA!!!!!!!! i’m so excited for you caitlin! i’m doing my first full on october, so i’m anxious for you to start training i can compare some of my training with yours! your gonna do amazing!

  • Evan Thomas July 23, 2010, 2:28 pm

    Good for you! I think you’re going to love training. Think about it; when else can you sit down and eat 3 bagels and not feel bloated after other than marathon training 😉

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 2:29 pm

      hahaha i definitely miss eating three bagels after a long run. 🙂

  • Lizzie July 23, 2010, 2:30 pm

    I have run 2 half marathons and plan on doing a 3rd in the fall. My biggest take away is I need to do more core work so my back doesnt hurt! Its fun to take what you have learned and apply it to your next training plan!

  • Maria @ Oh Healthy Day July 23, 2010, 2:32 pm

    As someone so new to running that even 3 miles mildly freaks them out, I am so inspired by your courage to run another marathon – even knowing that you didn’t have the absolute best experience the first time around.
    I can’t wait to read every detail of your training plan. I almost signed up for my first 5K race yesterday, hesitated, but now I am most certainly going to do it!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 2:52 pm

      Do it! What are you waiting for? Life is for living!

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) July 23, 2010, 2:33 pm

    Good luck! That is great! I am not a runner, but I do need to be better about doing yoga. That bread looks so good! Oh and salads are never boring…always delicious!

  • Maissa July 23, 2010, 2:34 pm

    Best of luck lady!

    Although this is far, far in advance I thought I’d offer up some unrequited advice on running in the cold. I’ve got a ton of experience (living up here in Canada and all) and trained for my first 1/2 entirely in freezing temperatures, in the dark, and often in the rain (work meant I had to run either before 8:00am or after 5:00pm). In retrospect I’m impressed with myself for getting through it.

    Anyway:

    Invest in light-weight woolen mittens. These will SAVE your hands. There is nothing worse than being distracted by painfully numb hands. Also Lululemon makes several winter running tops with cuffins, cuffs with thumb holes and an extra flap of fabric you can pull over your hands until your warm enough. I LOVE these, it keeps you from having to stash your mitten somewhere and they are super easy to pull on and off.

    Layers, layers, layers. I can’t say it enough. I usually wore a pair of long pants (yeah ankle-length spandex! Running dorks are awesome!), a tank-top, a long-sleeved technical shirt, and a fleece of some kind. It’s important to not wear cotton and to wear moisture wicking clothing, being wet just makes you COLDER.

    Buy a fleece headband and wear it. Like with hands, nothing is worse than feeling like your ears and forehead are going to fall off. Toques are fantastic too, fleece or wool are my fabrics of choice.

    Socks. Wear thin wool socks, they will keep your feet warmer and are well worth the investment. My favorite brand is teko. They are made out of merino wool, are thin, breathable and my feet are never cold. I’ve also never gotten a blister in them. So they’re about 12$ a pair… SO WORTH IT.

    A lightweight rain jacket with pit-zips and good pockets will change your life. I asked for one for Christmas and my request was granted. It ranks among my favorite things in the world. Make sure the hood is comfortable and doesn’t chafe your forehead (yeah, it happened, and it HURT).

    Watch the ground, frost, and ice result can result in falls, which at the best result in a cold butt and general unhappiness and at the worst can cause injury. Also if it is icy out, be SUPER careful at intersections. Drivers go crazy in the winter.

    When you are freezing and it is 5:00am and pitch dark repeat to yourself, over and over again: I am hardcore, I am hardcore, I am hardcore. Then brag about it. Everyone will be very impressed with your dedication. Either that or they will think your crazy…

    Anyway, I hope that in, you know four months when it gets cold you find this helpful…

    • Fueling for Fitness July 23, 2010, 2:41 pm

      I just did this too (I live in Canada as well). However, on my actual race day, all the snow miraculously disappeared and we ended up running in above 0 degree weather. 😛 I was slightly disappointed as I had been envisioning ice-y sidewalks and running over snow banks (I have a vivid imagination).

      Overall though, I can’t complain too much about having gorgeous weather. 🙂

      -Alison

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:26 pm

      Ohhhh thanks for the cold weather running advice! I guess I need to investigate in a few key pieces!!

  • Rachel July 23, 2010, 2:35 pm

    Good luck! You are such an incredible inspiration to me!!

    I’ve got 5 5ks under my belt now (started running at the beginning of this year). And once it cools off a bit in Texas, I’ve got a 10k, a 5 miler, and an 8 mile run on Thanksgiving. I’m terrified!!

  • Heather C July 23, 2010, 2:37 pm

    How exciting!! Love that feeling of clicking “register Now!” 🙂 Training for #2 is an entirely different feeling – you know what you’re getting into and you’re Ready for it!

  • Fueling for Fitness July 23, 2010, 2:38 pm

    AHHHH that is so exciting!

    I am training for my first marathon this year (Chicago) and am trying to not fall into the trap you mentioned (being too obsessive about sticking with the training plan). I did that first my first half-marathon and I almost lost friends over it. 😛

    I think hills/strength training are *the best* for you, despite how awful they can be. If anything, the long runs are what remind me about why I’m running, but the shorter, intense runs build your stamina for race day.

    Having said that, I’m still having trouble fitting in more than three core runs each week. I recently dealt with a leg injury that forced me to stop running completely for a while too, so this time around I’m trying to listen to my body and not take it beyond its comfort zone.

    I’m so looking forward to reading your training updates! 🙂

    -Alison

  • Jen @ Jen is Green July 23, 2010, 2:39 pm

    Good luck with marathon training!! I can’t wait to read about it! 😀

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) July 23, 2010, 2:41 pm

    I am so glad to hear that you signed up for another marathon!!!! Good for you girl!!!!!!

  • Kimberly July 23, 2010, 2:44 pm

    Very exciting! I ran my first half May 2, and I’ll be running my second next weekend (ACK!). The second time around, I am focusing much more on building my endurance (mid-week long runs of about 6-7 miles) and strength training. Though I can’t do NMTZ and run the next day, lunges and squats have helped strengthen my legs as well as help me avoid injury. Good luck!

  • Cindi July 23, 2010, 2:44 pm

    I always told myself I’d do a marathon before 30. Now I’m 31 and still no marathon. So can I make a pact with you that the next one you run in Charlotte (2011 or 2012?) I’ll do it with you? Better late than never! And I’m seriously considering doing the half this year…….stay tuned! We could get tips from my dad – did I ever tell you my dad used to run marathons in 2:40??? CRAZY MAN!!!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 2:54 pm

      Um, why dont you do Thunder Road 2010!!??? We can train together.

  • Sassy Molassy July 23, 2010, 2:46 pm

    Nice work! A friend of mine signed up for the Marine Corps Marathon this past spring when she got pissed about her ex boyfriend who had just broken up with her. So funny. Anywho, congrats on training for another! It’s always fun to see what you learn from the previous marathons and use it to your benefit. I’m training for my 5th marathon, Portland Marathon on Oct. 10. I’m excited for it.

    A few things I learned: run hills (they will make the flat stuff even easier and engage your sprinting muscles), commit to your speed work (it will help you pick up your pace and run more efficiently), train how you will race (i.e. I don’t race with an ipod so I rarely train with one and I generally carry my hand held water bottle bc I’ll either use it in the race or use the aid stations), and finally…sleep, water, massage and stretching are your friend! Good luck!

  • Anna July 23, 2010, 2:46 pm

    Yay, good luck with your 2nd marathon!
    I just started training last week with the marathon group in North Charlotte at Run For Your Life. They are actually training for Thunder Road, but I think my friend and I will be doing the Vegas marathon. This will be my first time, I am NERVOUS!

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday July 23, 2010, 2:49 pm

    You’re never really alone. I’m sure there will be tonnes of people watching (and participating) that will cheer you on

  • rachael July 23, 2010, 2:52 pm

    Good luck!! I love running but marathons still scare me.

  • Alex July 23, 2010, 2:53 pm

    Yay! So excited for you!

    I am also one of those people who does 22-milers – and I completely agree with you! I can’t imagine only having run as long as 20 before the big day. Once, I even ran a 24-miler two weeks before – and that was my best time! I know everyone is different, of course, but I’m with you. 🙂

  • Kim (Imperfectly Perfect) July 23, 2010, 2:55 pm

    I’ve never run a marathon, but it sounds like you have a good plan in place! Good luck and, most importantly, have fun with it!! 🙂

  • Liz @ Tip Top Shape July 23, 2010, 2:56 pm

    Good luck on training!!!!!

  • Mindy July 23, 2010, 2:56 pm

    Good luck, girl! You’ll do awesome!!

  • Angela (The Lady Loves to Eat) July 23, 2010, 2:58 pm

    I’m scared to death of running a marathon. I’ve run a half and that was enough for me! You are awesome!

  • AngelaOSG July 23, 2010, 2:58 pm

    haha after you announced on Twitter you were going to do a marathon
    I looked at my outdoor thermometer a few mins later and it said this:

    ‘26.2-C’

    I knew it was a good omen for you. Thought you should know! 🙂

    Im really excited for you.

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:27 pm

      Hahah thanks!

  • Anna @ Newlywed, Newly Veg July 23, 2010, 2:58 pm

    Ahhhh, this makes me want to sign up for a marathon!!! You’re going to rock it (again!).

  • Marci July 23, 2010, 2:59 pm

    I think it’s great you signed up! I am running my first half marathon alone on December 5 so I am excited to follow along as you train to! And reread your half recaps again.

  • ActiveEggplant July 23, 2010, 3:02 pm

    I’m excited for you! I 100% understand your last “what I would do different” point too – I have started running alone and it is helping me get more in tune with my body and my capabilities. I like to do training runs with people every now and then, but if I ever do a marathon again, I think I’ll do it alone. I’ve already done a few races alone and I have had much better experiences so far!

  • Hannah Hawley July 23, 2010, 3:02 pm

    Good luck!
    If you ever get really crazy, come to Vermont in the summer and run the The Vermont Endurance 100! 100k or 100miles of craziness.
    I volunteer and work one of the aid stations at mile 92!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:28 pm

      That is insane! I don’t think I’ll ever get that crazy.

      • Hannah Hawley July 23, 2010, 6:29 pm

        It certainly is a certain kind of crazy for sure!

  • Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman July 23, 2010, 3:04 pm

    This is really bad but I’m more excited about that bread, which looks amazing, than ever running a marathon. But go you!

  • Lauren July 23, 2010, 3:08 pm

    FYI – I’m doing TRM too this year! I’ve ran the 1/2 for this race 3 years in a row and this will be my FIRST marathon! I look forward to hearing about your training!

  • qualler July 23, 2010, 3:13 pm

    Congrats on the marathon! I’m doing a marathon for the first time this year and have been greatly inspired by your blog posts about running in general. You’re gonna do great! Thanks for the inspiration!

  • Reenie July 23, 2010, 3:14 pm

    You’ll be runnin’ on my Bday!!!

    You go girl 🙂

  • Megan @ Healthy Hoggin July 23, 2010, 3:15 pm

    I only recently ran my first half marathon, and I’m still in that “I never want to do that again” phase. 😉 But it’s good to see you’re motivated to run another marathon now! Sounds like you’ve got a good plan!

    Oh, and that Great Harvest bread looks to die for! There’s a Great Harvest right next to my parents’ house, and I can’t help but get a sample every time I visit– it’s truly the best bread in the world!!

  • Carly (Swim, Run, Om) July 23, 2010, 3:22 pm

    I was wondering when you would make the announcement on your blog! I’m super stoked to read about your training. I’m running my first marathon Nov. 28, and am seriously freaked out. So it’ll be good to follow along. 🙂

  • Amber July 23, 2010, 3:23 pm

    Oh exciting! I loved following your training for the first marathon so can’t wait to follow your training for this one.

    I am currently training for my FIRST full marathon on 10/10/10 in Portland, Oregon! I am…. 6 weeks into training I think. My schedule actually calls for 2 TWENTY milers, but I’m thinking of bumping one up to a 22-miler… It’s only 2 miles.. Right!! Haha. I bet I won’t be thinking that the day of.

    Anyways, good luck with the training for this 2nd marathon. I’m excited to follow along!

  • Roberta July 23, 2010, 3:25 pm

    Congratulations on the Marathon!! Nothing feels more exciting yet scary when you hit the confirm button:) I often find if you can survive the training the race is the easy part. I am with you about running 22 miles, that was the HUGE factor between my first and second marathon. Also running alone was another key for me as well. I have PB’s in all my races when I have ran alone. GOOD LUCK my training for the Philly Marathon starts next Sunday. Here I go again.

  • Allie July 23, 2010, 3:27 pm

    AWESOME!!! i just signed up for my first marathon in november (PHILLY!!!!). i have a 22 miler planned. i have been a runner for 20 years and never done a marathon. it’s time!!

  • Danielle (Runs on Green) July 23, 2010, 3:28 pm

    That’s so exciting!! I know I’m going to run another marathon in my future, I’m just not sure when/where. And after running the actual thing, I def. think running a 22-miler would help. Cuz seriously the difference between 20 and 26.2 is atronomical. I had a mini meltdown around mile 19!

    Something I would keep the same is all the strength-training/stretching I did. I trained/ran the whole thing (and followed the plan to a T) without any injuries and I credit it to the strength/stretching!

  • Nikka @ neekadeek July 23, 2010, 3:32 pm

    ‘No need to hurry,
    No need to sparkle,
    No need to be anybody but oneself.’
    -Virginia Woolf

    Congratulations Gurrrl!
    Can’t wait to read all about it!

  • Michelle July 23, 2010, 3:33 pm

    I am so so so excited for you!!! I am also excited for US that we get to follow along with you in your training!!!

  • Cindy@A Listed Life July 23, 2010, 3:34 pm

    Yay! That is awesome! I have been training for my first 10K, but have ended up with a weird pain in the back of my leg, above my ankle. Any ideas what that may be? LOL

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:29 pm

      I have no idea but I would REST it. It can only get worse if you continue to run on it!

  • Ellen W July 23, 2010, 3:36 pm

    Hey Caitlin,

    Congrats on the decision to tackle 26.2 again! I think you will find it is MUCH easier the second time around. You sort of know what to expect, and what works for your body. I think you’re taking a smart approach to the whole thing! I don’t normally comment, but I just wanted to suggest that you still make some sort of long-term training schedule to stick to- I got really lax on mine the second time around, and I don’t know, I just didn’t feel as prepared on race day. But that is probably just me…
    Good luck with your training!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:29 pm

      I’m definitely going to schedule the long runs!! I agree 100%

  • Peggy July 23, 2010, 3:37 pm

    Yay, Caitlin! Congrats on marathon #2! I’m also running my second this fall, Chicago on October 10. I ran my first alone, and this time I’ll be running with my best friend, who lives all the way across the country from me. I can’t wait to run it with her–it’s really given us something to bridge the gap of distance. But, I have to say, it was an incredibly powerful experience to run it alone, to see what I and my mind and body could do, for no other reason than to see for myself. Awesome!

  • Keri July 23, 2010, 3:37 pm

    Yes…I completely agree about doing the 22 miler. When I was training for my marathon I did a 23 miler. I wanted to do 26 but I just wasn’t able to get it in. Maybe this time around. Good luck! I think a marathon is a great way to break in the new city!

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) July 23, 2010, 3:38 pm

    After my first 5K my goal was just to do the entire thing. My second race I wanted to beat my time but didn’t take into consideration the different terrain. Now I base my time goals on how the course looks instead of what I had done before.

    Good Luck! You have great adjustments and a good plan. Just enjoy it.

  • marie July 23, 2010, 3:40 pm

    that sounds like so much fun and you have a good solid plan! you’re making me want to sign up for my first half marathon!

  • Julie @SavvyEats July 23, 2010, 3:41 pm

    Every time I read about one of your races, I want to run again. Seriously.

  • Karen w July 23, 2010, 3:42 pm

    Awesome! I have looked at that race a few times as it is reasonably close to Atlanta. I am with you on the 22 miler, there is some kind of mental edge to running that much closer to 26.2. Hope it is a great experience!

  • Katie @ peacebeme July 23, 2010, 3:45 pm

    Just wanted to say that I am naturally a cardio fiend, like you. 🙂

  • Christina July 23, 2010, 3:49 pm

    WTG Caitlin! You’re going to rock it, I know it.

    Your title prompted me to get that song stuck in my head…”OOps, I did it again…I made you believe we’re most than just friends…oops baby you think I”m in looooovveee..”

  • Caroline July 23, 2010, 3:50 pm

    Congrats! How exciting! I like your ideas about training for this one and think that you’ve got it all figured out.

  • Madeline @ greensandjeans July 23, 2010, 3:52 pm

    Yayyy! I am in the midst of training for my very first marathon, but all of the halves I have done have definitely help keep me on track. I think the best thing I’ve done is I only run every other day. I’m injury prone and I know this has helped keep me on the roads! I’m doing my longest run ever tomorrow- 18 miles! Eeeek!

  • Jaclyn July 23, 2010, 3:52 pm

    Aghhhh I love free samples, gets me every time! 😉

    Congratulations on signing up for your second marathon, you are such an inspiration and that’s great!! I can’t wait to read and follow along!

  • Beth @ DiningAndDishing July 23, 2010, 3:55 pm

    Congrats Caitlin! I just signed up for my first half with my little sis. She is also going to do a full in October and although I think she sounds crazy, I admit it’s a bit tempting to do a full at some point down the road :).

  • Mary Ann July 23, 2010, 3:55 pm

    I’m excited for you to do this marathon! I have been thinking of doing one as well, but I can’t seem to keep a knee uninjured during the training. I have run several half-marathons (1:52 is my best and I’m 47 years old…you do get faster as you age!) It’s fun to read your excitement in this blog. Best of luck to you!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:29 pm

      1:52 is an epic time!!!

  • Deanna July 23, 2010, 3:58 pm

    Good luck and great decision!! I love how you spelled out what you’ll do differently and what you’ll do the same. I also love how you are doing what works for YOU, which is most important in running long distances. And do lots of yoga! Those hip openers will do WONDERS.

  • Marie July 23, 2010, 4:04 pm

    Very exciting! Congrats, it’ll be fun to watch your training updates as I wasn’t reading your blog yet during you last marathon. Very cool! I started running in February and really want to sign up for a race… I can run 3 miles, so I sort of have been thinking of signing up for a 10k to challenge myself. No idea how/where to sign up though! Sad, huh? Haha… anyways, congrats again, I think this is awesome.

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:30 pm

      check out active.com!

      • Marie July 23, 2010, 7:54 pm

        Awesome thank you!

  • Julie @ Pickley Pear July 23, 2010, 4:09 pm

    Awesome news about the marathon! So exciting!

    I was seriously considering the half in Charlotte for a few reasons 1) I love NASCAR (call me what you want!), 2) I have two friends + blog friends that live in Charlotte, and 3) I want to do another half. But…timing isn’t right this year. I know…excuses excuses. I just can’t take time off work for another long weekend. Detroit to Charlotte is not the easiest road trip!

  • Amy July 23, 2010, 4:13 pm

    congrats Caitlin! I am also going to attempt my first full marathon this year in January. will you please post your training schedule when you have it all worked out…i like the pointed you pointed out. thanks!

  • ida July 23, 2010, 4:18 pm

    The great thing about doing a local race is that you can train on the course. There might also be some group runs organized by local running stores if you don’t want to totally train alone.

  • Neen July 23, 2010, 4:35 pm

    the training plan looks great! good on you! it seems a very grounded and down to earth realistic approach i’m sure you’ll rock that marathon!

  • Jackie (Peaces of Earth) July 23, 2010, 4:37 pm

    aaackkk!! I saw this on Twitter last night, SO EXCITING!! I honestly can’t imagine ever running another marathon, but I’m sure I will at some point. I also had a friend, but towards the end you’re really the only person that can get yourself through. I’m sure you will do SO great by yourself. I’m so excited to follow your training. You are awesome!!!!

  • kristin July 23, 2010, 4:42 pm

    that’s so exciting!!! good luck!

  • Jasmine @ Eat Move Write July 23, 2010, 4:52 pm

    You are pretty much a running rockstar. You have NOTHING to worry about girl. Nothing!

  • Ally July 23, 2010, 5:08 pm

    So excited for you!! And so proud of you! You’ll do great. I just signed up for Marine Corp Marathon (I am an exhibitor, so, I got a bib! YAY!) and am really excited. It will be my 5th marathon and this year my work schedule is super crazy, so, I’m adopting the FIRST method of training and will run 3 days a week–maybe 4 on some weeks. It’s scary to cut back my mileage, but, I know that getting obsessed with miles is stupid and hurts me mentally and physically. Sooo, we’ll see how this training cycle goes!

    Good luck!

    PS. My work will have a booth at that marathon, stop by and say hello!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 6:31 pm

      Yay!!

  • Holly @ couchpotatoathlete.wordpress.com July 23, 2010, 5:10 pm

    I will definitely do things differently for my second marathon. I too need to not stress about training and not get so strict about it. It should be fun! I love all your tips — speed work, yoga, etc. I wish I had done more crosstraining while I trained — running became, well, boring! And it was supposed to be fun. So all in all I would have fun with the training and not take myself so seriously!

  • Ellen@FIrednFabulous July 23, 2010, 5:16 pm

    I just LOVE your attitude. As always. I’ve been toying with the idea of doing my first EVER half marathon in November. I think I just need to DO IT! I know it’s not as scary as it seems…this just might have been the push I needed 🙂 And yes, yoga is your friend! It has helped me so much with my hip pain!

  • Cheryl July 23, 2010, 5:22 pm

    Caitlin, for some reason, I didn’t see your post about TCOYF. Yes, if you follow it the way you are supposed to, you will not get preggers. Switching to this from the pill, at extreme urging from my very Catholic husband, allowed me to realize I had severe fertility issues that I might not otherwise have known about. Glad to hear you went this route. BCP’s although a great invention are not “natural.” I’m all for the TCOYF method.

  • Candice July 23, 2010, 5:34 pm

    Way to go, girl! I’m so excited for you!

    I actually haven’t run the same distance twice yet, but I did run a half marathon and then a full marathon. Like you, I said I would never run another marathon – it was SO hard!!

    I’m already getting the itch again, though, and I may just have to do it! Next time around I will definitely do more yoga and core work. Also, I may do the 22 miler like you said. I only ran a 20 miler before the first one. People said the adrenaline would carry me the last 6.2. Um, no! I hit a major wall at about 21 miles and my meltdown just about lasted through the rest of the race!

    I’m so excited for you, and I can’t wait to follow your training!

  • Katheryn July 23, 2010, 5:39 pm

    I’ve run a full marathon 3 times and I have loved all three of them. After the first one I changed a bit in the way I trained. Mostly not being so crazy. Focusing a lot on my nutrition during training also made a big difference.

    BTW, I’ve only trained and ran in races by myself, and I love it!

  • Kelly @ Healthy Living With Kelly July 23, 2010, 5:42 pm

    YAY!!! Number 2 is awesome! I also totally agree with the 22 mile rule. I actually did 23 as my last long run and I also thought it was a smart decision. Miles 18-23 were the hardest for me. And knowing that I had already conquered 23 miles before made it a lot more mentally easier. After a certain point a marathon is all mental and running as long as possible before the big 26.2 helps me mentally.

  • Wendy July 23, 2010, 5:42 pm

    You will do great! If I had any other advice to add (even though I’ve never done more than a half marathon), it would be to work on your core strength. Yoga should be good for that as well! I’ve done 4 half marathons, and I learned something from each one – every single one was a unique experience with a unique set of circumstances.

    Off topic, but did you know the OB book is being released the same day as the paperback version of Breaking Dawn? Must be fate. 🙂

  • Erin July 23, 2010, 5:43 pm

    Awesome! That’s really exciting! It must be a great feeling to know that you’ve already completed one so you ARE capable of it–now it’s just about challenging yourself. At least you know it’s an attainable goal.

  • Anya @ Fitness & Sunshine July 23, 2010, 5:49 pm

    How awesome! 🙂 Good luck to you, I’m sure you will do great!

  • Ashley July 23, 2010, 5:59 pm

    Wow this blog is so amazing! Your so healthy and fit your everything a healthy person dreams to be! I wish I could run that far haha I’d love to start training for long distance! Good luck in training I hope all goes well and your eats are totally fabulous!

  • Janna (Janna's Keeping it Real) July 23, 2010, 6:05 pm

    i’ve only done one marathon, and i keep saying “never again”…but who knows! congrats and good luck on your training!

    lessons i’ve learned wtih the half:
    DON”T start out too fast! it’s so easy to get caught up in the moment, and push it HARD at the beginning…i’ve learned it’s better to fall back at the beginning so that you have that extra kick at the end!

    i’ve also learned that laughing is KEY. i was struggling to the max the last 2 miles of my last half, and my brother started cracking “that’s what she said” jokes. although i wanted to punch him in the face at the time…i really don’t think i could have made it without those laughs!

  • Julz @ freshman5k July 23, 2010, 6:09 pm

    I’m so excited for you! I can’t wait to do marathons when I’m done with college.

  • Chelsey July 23, 2010, 6:33 pm

    Go you on your second marathon!! How exciting!

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit July 23, 2010, 6:38 pm

    How exciting! You are so inspiring 🙂

  • Lisa @ bakebikeblog July 23, 2010, 6:48 pm

    ooooh yay!!!! How exciting!!!!

  • Dee July 23, 2010, 6:51 pm

    I don’t have two-time advice, but your post made me nostalgic. As a college senior, a friend and I ran as “bandits’ in the Boston Marathon during one of the last few years the organizers tolerated that practice. We had run half of the course the year before, which ends at Wellesley College where we were students.

    During the 26.2 haul, I had a meltdown just after we hit 26 miles. The going had gotten tough for a few miles, but at 26 miles, I couldn’t take it anymore! Thank goodness for my friend being there, because she wouldn’t let me stop with only .2 miles to go! After running for 26! The marathon really messes with your mind, but it is a great feeling of satisfaction.

    Good luck with your training!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 7:03 pm

      Aww what a funny story 🙂 Very cool to do Boston that way!

  • Wes July 23, 2010, 7:38 pm

    Hey, I use to live in North Carolina and actually did the Charlotte Thunder Road Marathon 3 years ago. It is a nice marathon to do…you run by Panther’s Stadium and the course is actually fairly flat. It was like 30 degree at that start line though – but it was so cold that it takes your mind off what your doing. I finished and I was barely tired at all because I just focused on the cold the whole time, lol. You will have a good time! Good luck.

  • Megan (Braise The Roof) July 23, 2010, 7:56 pm

    Wow! I have to say, for an impulse buy you have thought thoroughly about this marathon! Good for you- you marathoners are an inspiration. 🙂

  • Heather ODonnell July 23, 2010, 8:28 pm

    So, I’ve just blogged about my own marathon issues. Maybe you can help. Here’s the link: http://runodonnell.wordpress.com/2010/07/22/my-22-mile-dilemma/
    I’m really unsure about my training plan and I’m looking for any ideas from people who have tackled the distance before. I’m a little bit terrified of my first marathon.

  • Laura (Starloz) July 23, 2010, 8:28 pm

    I’m a pretty new reader, thanks for the history.

    Loved you lunch

  • Laura@FindingAHealthyBalance....after a 100+ Pound Weight Loss!!! July 23, 2010, 8:29 pm

    WOO HOO!!! So happy for you, I knew you would eventually run another Marathon…..after following you through all your training I knew you loved it to much to not do it again. I plan to run my 1st Marathon at Disney in 2012 and will be using all your tips. I am currently training for my 1st 15K and have a great training plan I found at runnersworld.com and love it as it has Easy Runs, Speed Work Runs, Tempo Runs and Long Runs each week. I wasn’t sure about the whole “speed work” thing at first when training for a distance race but I get it now and your post cinched it for me…………THANK YOU! =)

  • sarah (this is it) July 23, 2010, 8:46 pm

    Wow! 2 in a year! I have a fear of signing up for races and signing up for a 1/2 is a huge commitment for me. I have to say that I think speed workouts are a key part of preparing. I look forward to the challenge each week. I learned that strength training and yoga are also huge factors in the preparation. I am realllly looking forward to following along! I’ve got a few coworkers egging me on to try for a marathon.

  • Rachael July 23, 2010, 8:49 pm

    That’s a pretty awesome goal, and your approach sounds sane and balanced – love the yoga aspect. When I did long distance running back in the day, yoga was a key player in preventing injuries (and keeping me vertical). I’m actually considering the same marathon; it would be my first, but I’ve got some NC friends that run it every year…I guess I ought to start training now that I”m running again!

  • Rosey Rebecca July 23, 2010, 9:07 pm

    YOU are amazing! You are going to rock it!

  • Kristin@MissOnMyOwn July 23, 2010, 9:10 pm

    At the end of your last marathon did you say you had no desire to do another? Did something significant change or just a spur of the moment decision?

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 9:55 pm

      No – I said I would never do another one. I think I just got over the bad feelings I associated with the experience (it was really freaking cold and miserable). 19 degrees = hell.

  • Mackenzie July 23, 2010, 9:20 pm

    Congratulations! As I was reading our post, I realized how similar our stories really are. Three years ago I decided to take the “plunge” and sign up for a marathon. I wasn’t a distance runner until I got out of college and needed something to keep me motivated after a day of sitting at my desk. I started out doing 15Ks and Half Marathons and just decided it was time! So in 2007 I signed up for the Chicago Marathon. I kept to my training schedule pretty well, but also trained through an injury. I was determined to finish this race.
    The 2007 Chicago Marathon was a record breaking race. With temperatures reaching in the mid 90’s by 10am, race officials actually cancelled the race while we were running it! Fortunately, I was already at mile 18 when they called the race so I was allowed to finish – but not without police walking down the middle of the streets yelling at me to stop running. Regardless, I finished, but I was pretty emotionally scarred and ready to give up running.
    After a couple years of running shorter races, I decided it was time to try again. So far training for Chicago 2010 has been going well. I’m enjoying myself and hope to have a great race day.
    Sorry for the long post, but I thought it was great that our stories had so many similarities. I love your blog! I’m a vegetarian too and all our food posts are really inspiring!

    • Caitlin July 23, 2010, 9:55 pm

      We’re twins!

  • Kelly July 23, 2010, 9:43 pm

    Maybe it’s just my memory, but I do not thing you ever said on the blog you would never do one again (or perhaps I knew you didn’t mean it if you did), I figured you would eventually 🙂 Sounds like you have good plans for this time around!

  • sarah (the SHU box) July 23, 2010, 10:14 pm

    AHHH i did that one last year!! loved it. wish i could do this one but i am REALLY hoping to be pregnant by then! you are going to love it – such a lovely, well-run, awesome race.

  • Diana @ frontyardfoodie July 23, 2010, 10:46 pm

    Yes!! So exciting! You’re gonna rock this one after everything you learned on the last one!

    I’m jealous of anyone with running goals since I’m 8 1/2 months pregnant!

  • Wei-Wei July 23, 2010, 10:48 pm

    Oh my gosh this is so exciting! I can’t believe you’re doing it AGAIN! You’re amazing 🙂 Well, here goes training! Good luck with everything 🙂

    Wei-Wei

  • Lisa July 24, 2010, 12:34 am

    I’ve run 2 marathons and want to run my third in March/April 2011. The first one was faster but I didn’t run for about 4 years after finishing. Changes I made (without realizing it) for the second one was a lot of core and strength training (but that is a passion of mine and I didn’t start because of the marathon). I recognized that my body would no longer tolerate more than 3-4 days of running/week so my schedule was one long, one speed/intervals, one 10k and that’s it. I walked my water breaks during the race. Learned to love (than seriously HATE Gu). I got up to 34km in training and after my long runs reached 20km, I went long every other week, going back down to 20km on alternate weekends as a sort of recovery. My taper was then the 2 weeks from my longest run (but the weekend before the race, I had a 20km run). My time was slower but not only did I have a great time, physically I felt that I could run it again the next day! Good luck!

  • Susan - Nurse on the Run July 24, 2010, 12:36 am

    I’ve run five marathons, and every single time I toe the line thinking, “What? I thought I could run 26.2 miles?? I must be nuts…”

    Some things never change. 🙂

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople July 24, 2010, 1:25 am

    WOW! You are so inspiring! And I love your tips. If I ever decide to do a race, your blog is the first one I am going to raid for all the inside scoop!

  • Robin July 24, 2010, 6:01 am

    Good for you! I’m running my first at the end of November, so I’m looking forward to hearing about your training!

  • Amy* July 24, 2010, 11:45 am

    I’ll be running my first marathon on December 5th in Dallas. I’m excited to read about your training while I’m doing my own training. I’m kind of curious why you chose to do 22 miles as your longest run when you were training for your first time?*

    • Caitlin July 24, 2010, 11:59 am

      I just felt like 20 was way too far (mentally, not necessarily physically) from 26.2. 22 seemed to give me more confidence.

      • Megan July 30, 2010, 2:28 pm

        I thought the same thing about a long run of 10 miles being too far from 13.1! I feel like that 20 to 26.2 though, is way worse. I’ve only done one half so far, and am doing another one in October. Now you’ve officially gotten me thinking about the Charlotte marathon because it’s on my birthday and pretty close to me! I didn’t figure I’d ever do a full, but it looks like fun. That, in itself, is a scary thought 🙂 I would definitely need some serious mental preparation (particularly for the running in cold weather)!

  • Becky July 24, 2010, 4:25 pm

    I am so interested in following your training this time around. I am training for my first battle of 26.2. I’m following a Higdon plan and it seems to be working, but it can be intense. I also feel like I’m always questioning my mileage because I keep reading about people running 40, 50, even 60 miles/week! I’m in week 6 of an 18 week plan and I’m just about running 25 miles/week. I have no expectations…just hoping for a great experience!

    • caitlin July 24, 2010, 5:13 pm

      You’ll be fine! I ran 20 – 35 in the process of my first and was fine 🙂

  • tina July 24, 2010, 5:34 pm

    I’ve run two marathons, same course. I learned the second time to definitely work in cross training to the mix and drop some of my miles to keep from getting overuse injury issues. As long as my xt gets and keeps my heart rate up I can easily absorb some miles into it. I had been going to kettlebells and realized what an improvement it made in my posture and how much stronger I felt all the way through. I will probably incorporate some yoga this time too just to aid in stretching and flexibility.

  • Jaime July 25, 2010, 10:55 am

    Oooooh fun! Congrats on your spontaneous decision – can’t wait to read about your training!

  • Erika @ Food, Fitness, & Fun July 28, 2010, 9:25 pm

    Congrats on signing up for another marathon! I hope to sign up for one when I am older – it’s one of my goals. 😀

    -Erika

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