Should I run a marathon? It’s a good question to ask before jumping in to training.
In some cases, the answer is no. You really shouldn’t make that goal RIGHT now.
But that’s an entirely different question than CAN you.
I love running, you may have gathered that from the almost 2,000 posts I’ve now done on RunToTheFinish about running and of course, you know I’ve run 9 marathons and coached hundreds of others through their first marathon.
Which could leave you scratching that sweaty ponytail head of hair as to why I’d be telling you NOT to run a race.
So hang with me on this, you’ll see I might just have a few things you need to really consider.
ANNNNNND NO I’m not telling you that running a marathon is bad for your body. We’ve busted that myth already, running is good for your health.
Fall is the PEAK time for marathons and it feels like every runner is doing a marathon, which creates a concern that not doing one makes you less of runner.
I find myself falling in to this mindset when I talk about training for a half, even though that’s the season I’m currently in with my goals and post injury.
My long run was 10 miles, but compared to those doing 20 miles, suddenly I feel like I’m really slacking by only doing a half…. BUT every race has it’s own goals and you have your own reasons for running those races.
9 Reasons You Should Not Run A Marathon
Here are my top reasons NOT to let FOMO influence your decision to sign up for a marathon:
1. You Want to Prove You’re A Runner
Don’t run a marathon because you think that’s a requirement to be a runner.
If you run, you are in fact a runner. A real runner isn’t about pace or distance, it’s a mindset.
2. You Aren’t Genuinely Excited to Do It
Don’t run a marathon if you don’t want to!
It’s a lot of work if you don’t already enjoy running a 1/2 marathon. Trust me once you’re out there, it doesn’t feel like simply twice as long, it feels longer.
You need to truly want this to commit to the training time and enjoy the experience.
3. Your Current Schedule is OVERLOADED
Don’t run a marathon if you’re already over committed in other areas of your life.
It takes time to do it and not get injured. <<— not getting injured requires doing more than running!
Busy people train for marathons all the time, so it’s not impossible, but really look at your life and be honest about how much time you can and want to give to it right now.
4. Your Goal is Weight Loss
Don’t run a marathon to lose weight.
The unfortunate truth is that most first time marathon trainees gain weight because the body wants more calories due to increased activity and you justify those delicious ooeey gooey fresh from the oven cookies based on your new mileage.
Plus I shared with you a killer story from my friend Tara who got her 6 pack abs by stopping marathons that she no longer enjoyed and finding new workouts. 
5. You Care About How Your Feet Look
Don’t run a marathon if you need to have pretty feet for a photo shoot.
I’ve never had a black toenail from running, but I think I’m one of the lucky few. I do however have calluses and blisters. And honestly, in general, a lot of marathon training just isn’t glamorous!
It’s looking exhausted after your first 18 mile run and walking sideways down stairs after a race because it hurts to go any other way.
This one is a little tongue in cheek, but still true!
6. If You’re Super New To Running, Wait
Don’t run a marathon if you have to ask someone “how long is this marathon?”
Of course it’s your first and maybe you’re new to running, but you need to have been running long enough to have a small concept of 26.2 miles.
7. You Want to Keep Your Current Social Schedule
Don’t run a marathon if your social life is KEY to your happiness and none of your friends are runners.
It becomes harder as the miles grow to go out for late night fun when you’re Saturday is going to start 5AM! Additionally, you are going to TALK about running non-stop and need people who won’t throttle you for it.
8. You Aren’t Dealing with Current Health Issues
Don’t run a marathon if you’re having health issues…it won’t make them better.
Marathon training can weaken your immune system without the right plan, coach and nutrition.
While it could help you lose weight and strengthen your heart, if you have adrenal fatigue or other major issues this just isn’t the time.
BUT you can run, checkout Low Heart Rate training.
9. You Honestly Don’t Care for Running
Don’t run a marathon if you don’t enjoy running!!!
Listen I’ve shared my story, which is similar to many others, that I didn’t love running right from the get go, but clearly now I can’t live without it. Soooo FALL in love with running first because you’re going to be spending way more time than you know doing it, thinking about it and talking about it.
Let one running coach convince you NOT to run a marathon (yet) #runchat Share on XWhy Should You Run A Marathon?
Of course the flip side of all of this is the reasons that we do run marathons:
- Pride in the achievement
- Learning that we can do more than we believe
- Experiencing new places
- Connecting with other runners
- Challenging ourselves in new ways
- Because we really do love the run
- Less than 1% of the population has done one, so it’s an elite crowd
- It makes us better employees (seriously data supports that!)
- Running improves our health, both mental and physical
It’s been a few years since my last marathon and part of me is craving the challenge again, but honestly I’m also trying to be honest with myself about what is driving that need.
Is it really because I want to run 26.2 miles or is it because every weekend I’m watching my friends crush long runs or crush PR’s and it makes me feel like I SHOULD. Once I know it’s for me again, you’ll likely hear me announcing a registration!
And once I click register, you can bet I’ll be reminding myself of what’s to come with these 22 No B.S. Marathon Training Truths!!!
Looking for marathon training tips? Start here!
- First Marathon Training Tips
- How Long Does Marathon Training Take?
- What to wear for a marathon?
- Marathon Pace Chart
- Training to Walk a Marathon
Other ways to connect with Amanda
Instagram Daily Fun: RunToTheFinish
Facebook Community Chatter: RunToTheFinish
Get more running tips: Pinterest
Running Blisters: 7 Ways to Prevent + Causes and Treatment
This really speaks to me. I've had friends ask if I would run marathons with them because they assume physically I could train and be OK. They may be right? Regardless I need to fall in love first.
My recent post 3 ways Im Miss.Piggy’s doppelgänger.
Um yes, I've run a few. ; )
My issue is SO many people come to me "wanting" to run a marathon, but for the "wrong" reasons. When your "why" is not compelling ie: you have to WANT to do it on the inside. For yourself. Not the outside, meaning everyone else and the Facebook updates. Those that are motivated from within are more successful, IMO.
My recent post The Kindness Project
3 weeks from Saturday I'll be running my 4th marathon. I ran for about 15 years before I ran my first one though. It was the right time. I didn't feel pressured at all. I wanted to do it. I can't do more than 2 in a year, my body needs lots of recovery, but I do enjoy the entire training process. Love seeing the progress and saying "My long run was 'only' 10 miles!" I'm excited for my race, but I'm also looking forward to freedom on Saturdays afterwards!
There is definitely weird pressure to run a marathon. And now it even seems that the 60k has become a popular distance to run. It's only best to do it if the goal is for you and it will be a happy choice!
My recent post Post Marathon Recovery Tips
Loving this post so much, Amanda. I ran my last marathon a year ago and after that decided to take a break from marathon training for a while. As a blogger I struggle with feeling not "good enough" for not training for longer distance races, so it's always nice to have an outside voice to remind me that yes, I can still blog about running even if I'm not running marathons right now. Thank you, thank you, thank you for this great post!
My recent post Sun Salutations for Beginners
Can't tell you how much I love this post Amanda! I swear I'm bookmarking this for those times when I'm feeling like my half marathon training is "not enough!"
Love this post so much, Amanda! I was adamant last year that I was not going to run a marathon until it was right for me and I had the deep desire to – so I didn't sign up for one until I wanted to, it would work in my life, and I still then waited a month on the idea. I personally love the half, especially since then I can engage my other passions such as hiking and camping. I firmly believe that runners should only run what makes them happy. So thank you for this post – it's something people need to hear!
My recent post Thursday Things + Life Lately {October 15}
Well there you go! Great reasons, and thanks for putting them out there. I ran a half marathon and didn't enjoy it. Thus, I've never considered a full. You've certainly reiterated why right here! :) There are so many things I can invest my time and get more out of. Although I think running a marathon is an amazing journey for many people! I appreciate your honesty!
My recent post How to gather for a healthier tailgate party
Haha, yes, DO NOT run a marathon if you have to ask how long it is!
Also on a serious note, if you haven't done a half-marathon, don't skip that steps,.
I just started training for my first marathon. It was the perfect time in my life… at work, social life, mindset, health… it is my first and could most likely be my last but I completely get your post. That is exactly how I felt for 10 years. Now, the timing is just right.
My recent post Race Recap : Nogent Baltard 10K
I'm a one and done! so far anyway. I ran my one and only four years ago and haven't been tempted enough to sign up for another. Why… I really like half marathons. I like the distance, the training is manageable with kids and cows and a part time in town job. Marathon training left me tired, really thin, and a little taumatized with that wall I slammed into at mile 22. Maybe someday another, but I really feel no pressure and am okay with that. I am a runner who has done a marathon but am not a marathoner. I am a half marathoner! Proudly because #wycwyc right?!
My recent post Life, running, football
I’m 41 and, after only running in high school, I slowly worked back into running. I have done a regular 5K and a muddy trail 5K. I enjoyed them but my body takes a long time to get stronger and seems to be very easily injured. I used to think that I’d love to complete a marathon. Now I just want to take care of my body, mind, and spirit. So maybe I’ll continue to run or (like I am now because of an injury) maybe I’ll continue with lifting weights and elliptical/bicycle. The goal is not determined by my ego. ?
I totally get it. I just did my first (not sure if last) marathon. It was so empowering. I wanted to prove to myself that I am strong (physically, emotionally, spiritually). I learned so much about myself. I will keep running, but probably half marathons for a while. My friends/husband max out at halfs, and really, I just want to spend time & be healthy with the people I love. Thanks for a great post.
Talk about discouraging crud. Debatably the worst runner related article I’ve ever read. Don’t call yourself a runner nor athlete. Complaints about a 5am wake up to train? Give me a break.
welcome to the blog and thanks for your cheerful attitude! If you’ve been around anytime I’ve written over the last 10 years, you’ll know I’ve done plenty on how to enjoy a marathon and have done 8 myself. But they aren’t for everyone and people need to know what they are signing up for.
have a great day
Love this post! I feel called to run a marathon every once in a while, but also have to remember how difficult and draining it can be. It’s a huge commitment and should;t be undertaken lightly!
I think it’s easy to underestimate the time commitment!