You can run a Marathon
Why were there so few females running Milano Marathon? This question has been bothering me. I even pondered it during the marathon itself. I was very aware that I was amongst a sea of men throughout the entire race. And it was nothing to do with my starting sector.
After the race I looked up how many female runners there actually were. 991, just 15% of the field! 15%!
But why? I don’t have the answer. It’s likely I never will. But, I think it comes down to two points:
Either, women don’t want to
Or, they don’t think they can
Personally, I think if you and dug deep enough with someone, more often than not, the latter would be identified. The sheer lack of confidence or belief in an ability to do something. I think many often confuse this (or hide this) with “not wanting” to do something.
In my relatively short running coaching career to date (2 years), I’ve been lucky enough to work with circa 200 female runners. Either as 1:1 clients or Ladies Run Club members.
I, hand on my heart, believe that ANY one of these ladies are capable of running a marathon. Will they all have the same finishing time, training plan, or areas to work on? Absolutely not! That is what makes running and marathons so amazing.
It’s not about a 12-week build… it’s about working on what you need to, trusting the unique process to you, then committing and believing in yourself.
Marathons are not easy; the training nor the day itself. But that’s the point, right?
It doesn’t mean they are not enjoyable. They just become a way of life.
But, please stop thinking that you can’t.
