AGAINST THE WIND



Yesterday I went for a 16 mile run in 25 mph wind. Heading north along the Ohio River trail in Wheeling, West Virginia, we flew along at 7:30 pace with the wind at our backs. Then we turned around. What a difference! Running into the wind, I felt like I was pulling a sled. By the time I finished my back hurt, my quads hurt, my calves hurt, and my joints hurt. We ended up averaging about 7:55 a mile for the entire run.

As a 57-year-old man training for a spring marathon, I get the sense that taking on this challenge is like running against the wind. Five years ago at Pittsburgh I ran a 3:16:31. I have no idea what I can run in April at the Toledo Glass City Marathon. Is 3:20 unreasonable? Experts say that people in their fifties will lose at least a minute a year on their marathon time. In the best light that puts me at 3:21:31.

Running against the wind of age, I have learned to reset goals. My main goal for this spring race is to get there in good shape and uninjured. This means that I may have to let up on my training now and again in the next two months. If the calf starts nagging me or my knees hurt consistently, I'll cross train until the pain is gone.

I realize that a 3:20 marathon is the upper-tier goal. I hope to run that fast but understand it can only happen under near perfect training and racing conditions. That's why I set three goals. My mid-tier goal is 3:30. Between now and the race, I may suffer a few minor injuries. I've learned the hard way not to ignore them. I'll take time off, cross train, and try to get back on track. Minor injury interruptions will sway me to focus on my mid-tier goal. If something major happens that puts me out for several weeks, I'll fall back on my lower-tier goal of 3:40. That time still qualifies me for Boston but makes it contingent upon times entered by other men in my age group.

I believe it's wise to set three goals for your marathon--upper, middle, and lower. With three goals, an injury blow to your training won't be as psychologically devastating. Chances are you will encounter rough waters between now and race day. Hopefully, you will get through without too much difficulty. If not, don't despair. Get healthy and embrace the goal that's right for your circumstances.

Happy running,

Joe C. Ellis