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The Truth About Marathon Running: It's Not Easy for Any of Us

One thing I find myself reminding new marathoners time and time again is this: running is hard for all of us. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been running for years or if you’re lacing up your sneakers for the first time. The challenge is real, and it’s something every runner faces.

There’s a common misconception that "real" runners—those who have completed multiple marathons or seem to have endless energy—somehow find it easier. Maybe it looks like we wake up every morning eager to hit the pavement, with a natural drive and enthusiasm that makes the miles fly by effortlessly. But let me tell you, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The reality is, running is tough. There are days when even the most seasoned runners struggle to find the motivation to get out the door. We all experience the fatigue, the mental battles, and the physical strain that come with training. What separates runners from non-runners isn’t that it’s easier for us, but that we do it anyway.

And also, for us experienced runners, remembering that it’s hard is important. We may think that with time it should get easier and feel discouraged when it doesn’t. We might question why we still face the same struggles or why it still takes such effort. But the truth is, it’s hard—that’s what makes it great. The difficulty is a reminder of the challenge we’ve embraced, the journey we’ve chosen, and the strength we’ve developed along the way. It’s a part of the process that keeps us striving for more.

This lesson extends beyond running and into life itself. Just like in a marathon, life throws challenges at us that can feel overwhelming. There will be days when it’s hard to find the motivation to keep moving forward, and the obstacles seem too big to overcome. But just as in running, what defines us is not how easy or hard life is, but how we respond to those challenges. The strength to persist, to keep going even when it’s tough—that’s what helps us grow, both as runners and as individuals.

The truth is, what makes us runners is the fact that it’s hard—and we keep going despite that. We push through the tough days, the sore muscles, and the mental hurdles. We lace up our shoes when we don’t feel like it and put in the miles when it’s the last thing we want to do.

So, if you’re new to marathon running and finding it challenging, know that you’re not alone. The struggle is universal. But it’s in that struggle that we find our strength. It’s what makes crossing the finish line so rewarding. Remember, it’s not about finding it easy—it’s about doing it anyway. That’s what makes you a runner—and that’s what helps you navigate life’s toughest miles.

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