Back in the elementary school days, my best friend talked about her parents running "Grandma's Marathon". Being a youngin' with little knowledge of running, I pictured them traveling to visit their super ripped runner Grandma and then running a marathon with her. Like she must have her own marathon. Whatever distance that was, I wasn't sure.
Years later, I learned that Grandma's Marathon is indeed a running race and they may even have a Grandma there to take pictures with. Not my Grandma, but someone's Grandma! Started back in 1977 along the scenic North Shore of Minnesota, the Grandma's Marathon is now listed as one of the Top 50 Marathons to Do Across America and around 9,000 runners participate.
Like I said, it's a pretty big deal, and I am ecstatic to be running this race as a BibRave Pro in 2018. Only 182 days to go!
That being said, I should probably start running one of these days!
After spending this year pregnant and our third precious baby boy being born in early November, I am now easing back into run/walk intervals at 5 weeks postpartum. While allowing plenty of time for recovery and stretching, I plan to build up my base mileage through the end of December and January.
By mid-February, the 16-week training cycle for Grandma's will begin! I plan to use the Hanson Method’s Beginner Plan because it is low mileage and as intense as I want it to be, making it a great plan for postpartum training.
This is my second time running a marathon at 7 months postpartum and I'm focusing on keeping realistic expectations, prioritizing rest and recovery over high mileage, and making those running workouts count when I can fit them in. As for time goals, I'm not setting anything crazy because this is my first race back after baby but realistically I would like to run a sub-4:00.
If you're interested in running Grandma's, check out grandmasmarathon.com to take in all of the distances and highlights of the marathon weekend! Prices do increase at the end of this month plus there is a bonus if you register now...
By registering before 12/31/17, you will receive a bonus full-zip fleece lined jacket! I could use that cozy jacket on cold wintery days like today. Brrr. That's life in #Minnesnowta.
After taking a year off marathoning, I feel so blessed with the opportunity to celebrate my 10th full marathon with this epic race. Follow along with me and fellow BibRave Pros Angie and Amy S as we train for #Gmas18!
What races are on your 2018 calendar or your race bucket list?
Linking up with Holly and Tricia's Weekly Wrap Up.