The Next Level

I've decided to take my running to the next level.

In 2012, I ran more miles (around 1300) than in any other year. Most of those miles were run in preparation for what I thought would be my final attempt at breaking the 4 hour barrier in the marathon. In my heart I believe I ran enough miles and trained enough to break 4 hours. But come last December in Memphis, my 4th attempt at the marathon ended like the first three -- over 4 hours. To be fair, the weather did not cooperate on that day in Memphis with 60+ degree temperatures and high humidity. But I think something else contributed as well.

Since the marathon, I've set PRs in the 10k, 10 miles, and half marathon. So, clearly, my fitness was in a good place. Clearly, I had put in the work. All the online running calculators kept telling me I should be able to break 4 hours in the marathon. But I hadn't. What was I missing?

I'm a pretty smart guy. And I've read a lot about running over the past few years. But that hardly qualifies me as an expert. I finally arrived at the realization that I needed help. I needed someone to teach me, to show me, to coach me. If I was going to improve enough to break 4 hours, I was going to need help. I was finally ready to admit it.

Just as I was coming to this realization, a brand new running training center opened in my hometown. I took this as the first sign. Then, I discovered that several (fast) runners I knew were being coached by Alex Morrow, the new proprietor of the Resolute Running Training Center. One of his students, Lisa, blogged about her coach, her new PRs, and her Boston qualifying time (Yo Momma Runs). I took this as the second sign. Fortunately, I'm wise enough now not to require a third sign.

I called up Coach Alex and set up a visit. He showed me around his nice new facility. He was very excited about the programs the training center could offer. And he was very confident in his ability to train me and in my ability to break 4 hours. I am putting myself in his hands; he will show me the way.

I think I know what I am in for. I think I will be running more miles. I hope I will be running fewer junk miles. I am sure I will be doing speed work and long runs. But, most of all I know will get instruction, accountability, and encouragement.

So, Coach Alex, let's take my running to the next level. I am ready.

I think.