Aghast wrote:
Why is there more pressure racing a marathon then racing a 10k or a 5k or XC? Why do people say that he needs to run these other races to enjoy racing again? Why isn't a marathon enjoyable? The people saying these things are probably 5k/10k runners.
First, I wasn't a 5k/10k guy. I was a marathoner who raced at the Olympic and WC level. Second, you clearly don't understand the distance and the pressures involved.
The marathon is a one race season, unlike shorter races where you can race every couple of weeks (or more). If I do a season of shorter races, there is not the same pressure that I will have to perform on one single day for which I have invested months of preparation. What other sport/event is there where your whole competitive year comprises two events?
Racing shorter distances is an enjoyable change because you can run a bunch of them without beating yourself up. If you have a cold or a bad day, then you can regroup and race again in a fortnight. Try that with the marathon. You can track your progress in races over a couple of months, and it is quite motivating. Think how Webb feels these days.
Also, training for a marathon involves significantly more mileage than training for shorter races. This extra volume takes a toll on the body. Believe it or not, it can get to be a drag being tired all the time. You generally feel sharper and fresher when you are training for shorter races.