Why run a marathon?

I've been asked this question several times in the last week so I thought it was time to post my reasons why I'm doing a marathon.

I'll be following the training programme in the book "The Non-Runner's Marathon Trainer" and here's their textbook answer as to why someone would run a marathon:


"Each of us has a completely unique set of life experiences, yet as humans we share the desire to test our personal limits in search of how far we can go.  The avenue of testing is limited only by one's imagination, fear threshold and financial resources.  Some people dive out of airplanes, others climb mountains, still others explore the depths of the sea.  But for most of us, the arenas of challenge are less grandiose and a lot closer to home. ...

Along with the need to grow by testing and expanding our personal limits, we humans desire what psychologists call 'peak experiences'.  Peak experiences are positive happenings that have a profound and lasting impact.  They are life-changing, and in retrospect are often considered the finest moments of our lives.  They are experiences we value and memories we cherish.  Some people actively seek peak experiences, but most of us rarely get beyond weddings, births and the occasional vacation."


So why do *I* want to run a marathon?  Because I think I have the ability to do so.  I know, in my heart of hearts, that if I don't at least attempt it I'll be letting myself down.  Why on earth wouldn't I want to achieve all I can?  Why wouldn't I want to get as much out of life as possible?

Afterall, Life is too short.