In urban areas, running marathons seems to be trend. This activity, which is often the venue for health campaigns, requires careful preparation, from physical to psychological preparation. This is because the distance to run a marathon is far and it takes quite a long time.
Marathon running is one of the athletic sports that was first held at the Olympics in Greece in 1896. Although it has been done long ago, the marathon still exists today. Even recently, marathons are often held in various social events and fitness campaigns.
Understanding the Benefits of Running a Marathon
Both marathon and light running have tremendous benefits in losing weight. A study even revealed that running is the most effective exercise to burn calories in the body.
Running in a distance of 1.5 kilometers (km) alone can burn 100 calories. Especially if the distance you run by running is 5 km, 10 km, 21 km (half marathon), or 42 km (full marathon). Calories burned of course very much.
In addition to losing weight, other benefits of running a marathon are heart healthy, increase endurance, gain experience from exploring new places, and expand social relationships by participating in events that are attended by many people you don't know.
Important Things to Prepare Before Running a Marathon
Even if it's just running, don't underestimate this sport. To complete a marathon, you need thorough preparation, including:
1. Consult a doctor
The first and foremost thing to do before starting training for a marathon is to undergo a thorough physical examination at the hospital.
The point is to make sure your body is able to handle the stress of running a marathon. This is important, especially if you have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure, or don't exercise regularly before.
2. Exercise routine
Given that running a marathon is a sport that requires strong physical endurance, it is important to do regular exercise to prepare your physical condition.
You can join a training program with a marathon instructor or join a community of marathon runners, to get safe and correct direction in running a marathon.
3. The right sports equipment
Use shoes and clothes that are specifically designed for running. This will keep you from getting injured while running the marathon.
To avoid injury, you should also not wear new shoes when running a marathon. Use shoes that you have often used when running, because your feet are used to the shape of these shoes.
4. Eat healthy food
Before running a marathon, it is very important to eat healthy and nutritious foods, especially foods rich in carbohydrates, such as rice, bread, and pasta. This is because carbohydrates are very useful in storing the body's energy.
You are also recommended to eat vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and foods rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure to consume enough calories each day, and also meet your fluid needs by drinking lots of water.
There are many benefits of running a marathon that you can get. However, follow these marathon preparation steps above to avoid getting injured while doing it.
When running a marathon, try to keep your body well hydrated, regulate your breathing pattern, and prioritize safety, especially when running on public roads.
