Run-Down Forums

[PeterJ]

I just wonder how it is in your areas: Does only running marathon acknowledge you as a runner?
In Germany it seems so. Whenever you discuss with runners, the next question is: "Did you run a marathon", or "how many did you run".
Telling them:"no I didn't yet", seems to classify me as a second class runner, a lower caste.
I always wonder, what's the point in just surviving a marathon in 4 hours 30 instead of running exciting 10K in a acceptable time.
Is that world wide phenomenon?

Peter

[Micah Ward]

I have seen that attitude too but it seems to be most prevalent in people who really don't know much about running. Real runners and people who are really knowledgeble about the sport know the difference. Someone who runs a 35 minute 10K is a "real" runner whether they ever run a marathon or not.
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[Dan]

Typical. I've got a neighbor who is very into sports and even the Olympics, but knows next to nothing about track. After every meet, he asks me if we set any world records. I haven't quite managed to convince him that that is an extremely tough standard for even the very best runners in the world, let alone a little DIII school with no scholarships in the middle of the season.

Dan
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[PeterJ]

I mean training makes the difference, not the distance. And I assume a marathon runner does not train harder and longer than, let's say an 100m sprinter. The training is different, well and the final event is shorter. In the end, the result is similar: total exhaustion!

[Dan]

Different is key. Which one is tougher or requires more training and discipline is a hopeless debate.

Dan
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[Indeurr]

Running too many marathons certainly may make you feel like a knight -- when they put metal bars and screws in your knees and legs. I have seen it. People who are near handicapped after over 50 marathons, and still want to participate in another.
My good friend who is not a marathon runner, and who aimed at running 5 K in 18 minutes, trained or overstrained himself to the point of spending 12,000 dollars for knees' surgery.
Certain psyche and body types make you prefer and more able of running certain distance. Not everyone is both mentally and body--type wise built for a marathon. It is possible to force your mind and body to go against your own predisposition. However, it is unwise, since the price you pay for it may be too high.
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