Running

Running Dreams and Bathroom Nightmares

Every runner has a battle story, although some are more embarrassing than others.

Yes, you’ve seen these before, but you don’t know how nasty they can be, even when spotless! Image courtesy of the author.

I’ve been letting a few people know of my marathon dreams and plans. Having been a couch potato for so long, people sometimes look confused when I say I’m training for a marathon in January 2026. Still, I get lots of encouragement from those who know me only on Medium. Thanks, by the way!

But interestingly, from those who know me in person, I get more cautionary tales. I appreciate the concern, but I sometimes feel like people I know don’t think I can do this.

“One year is just not enough,” a few of my buddies have said. “Why not?” I ask. Inevitably, their answers revolve around injuries.

One of my friends tried to explain: “Well, sure, one year of consistent training would be plenty, but you have to figure at least 30% of your time will be spent recovering from injuries.” Really? Why?

This friend said I would become “just like the other runners.” He said I would feel pain and suffer minor impairments, but I would choose to run just the same. Eventually, the injuries would become severe, and I’d be forced to stop.

Humbug!