13 Things That Happen When You Train for a Marathon

Megan
Written by
Megan Harrington |

When you begin training for a marathon, you automatically gain entry into a special club. And once you become a member, you'll start noticing changes right away. Some of those things will be expected—others, not so much.

Wait, I'm chafing where?

Here are 13 things you may (or may not) see coming.

Any run under 10 miles starts to feel like an easy run.
1 of 14
Remember when running for a half-hour used to feel like a huge challenge? Well, once you've been logging double digit runs every weekend, your regular runs will feel delightfully short.
Find:
Your Next Race
You figure out your body's most chafe-prone spots.
1 of 14
When sweat meets skin, chafing is almost inevitable. Discovering the pain of chafing isn't fun, but it's sort of a right of passage. Consider yourself inducted. And get some body glide ASAP.
Find:
Your Next Race
Your usual serving size is no longer enough.
1 of 14
Cue the marathon hunger! When training ramps up, you might find yourself constantly hungry, so don't be surprised if you reach for second helpings and snacks more often.
Find:
Your Next Race
You begin stalking the weather report.
1 of 14
Whether it's weeks before race day (hello, long term forecast) or in the days leading up to your long run, you'll become all-too-familiar with the Weather Channel. Fingers crossed for a tail wind, partly cloudy skies and cool temperatures!
Find:
Your Next Race
You become obsessed with the gear.
1 of 14
Now that running is such a big part of your life, you'll find yourself researching the latest and greatest running accessories—GPS watches, wireless headphones, fuel belts and more. Yes, I'll take one of each, please!
Find:
Your Next Race
You might get very, very sleepy.
1 of 14
Marathon training saps a lot of energy, so you may need to hit the sheets earlier than usual. This might mean saying no to evening social activities, but remember that it's only temporary. If all else fails, pour a second cup of coffee and try to find time for a catnap!
Find:
Your Next Race
You'll have no shame when it comes to running buddy talk.
1 of 14
Whether it's sharing details about bathroom issues or talking about work or family issues, you might find that running makes it easier to get things off your chest. Even if you'd never talk about this kind of stuff over coffee, it's often easier to divulge on the run.
Find:
Your Next Race
Your feet will look kind of gross.
1 of 14
From black toenails to blisters, if it's sandal season, you might be a little embarrassed about the state of your feet. It's annoying, but once that finisher's medal is around your neck, the last thing you'll be worried about is how you look barefoot.
Find:
Your Next Race
Your friends and family will be ready for your training to end.
1 of 14
If you find yourself talking about your runs non-stop or bailing on too many events, try to remember that there's more to life than running!
Find:
Your Next Race
You'll realize you're stronger than you think.
1 of 14
Whether it's completing a killer speed workout or a run in extreme temperatures, marathon training will test your limits and challenge you as a runner.
Find:
Your Next Race
Some days you'll wonder what the heck you were thinking.
1 of 14
Bad days (or weeks!) are inevitable and we all reach a point in training when we question ourselves. It's normal, so try not to freak out. Tomorrow is a brand new run.
Find:
Your Next Race
Your internet browser history will be all running, all the time.
1 of 14
Training logs, race recaps, course profiles, shoe reviews and more—if you're having trouble concentrating at work, don't say we didn't warn you.
Find:
Your Next Race
You quickly realize the difference between friends and running friends.
1 of 14
Your childhood bestie and work BFF will always have a place in your life, but a friend who will meet you at the crack of dawn for hours of running is in a totally different category.
Find:
Your Next Race
1 of 14
Find:
Your Next Race

About the Author

Megan

More by Megan Megan Harrington | Freelance Writer
Megan is a runner and writer living in Upstate New York. Megan ran cross-country and track throughout high school and college and now enjoys longer races like the marathon. When she's not reviewing the latest fitness gear or writing copy for brands, Megan enjoys being active with her husband and two small children. For more on what Megan is up to, you can follow her on Instagram.