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To say there is a mix of excitement and anxiety around a first marathon event is a huge understatement. One day out of three, I was eager and ready to go. And for the remaining two, worried and concerned.

A marathon is a major commitment with many months of preparation and planning; learning about others' experiences, successes, challenges, the routines, always wondering if I could really do it. Where could I turn to find reassurance that all would be well? Were the answers in the ever-growing stack of books and magazines piled high on my bedside table? Or the advice from friends who already had two or three marathons under their belt?

For many, the weeks leading to the big day are much harder than the event itself. And followed by the tremendous relief and sense of accomplishment that can only come about from all the hard work we invest, that's what first marathons are about.

Some of you may be aware that I recently "endured" my first marathon. In the months leading up to the marathon, I was generally upbeat, excited and feeling good. Definitely looking forward to the big day but still concerned about my ability to perform when the time came, even though I was fully aware that many others with much less of a base than myself did this every day.

In the days just prior to my marathon, I was restless and eager, both positive signs I thought. But how would I feel during the event or afterwards? Would the people I was to rely on for support be understanding? Would they be able to deal with me as I became fatigued, uncomfortable and terse? The actual start of the marathon was strangely vague to me, though I recall how I felt early on with clarity. Many questions and concerns about my ultimate performance loomed over me, but I was now completely focused on the job ahead.

With the first few down, I was beginning to sense the immensity of the task at hand and tried to settle down into a rhythm. As I continued, I concentrated on hydration as I had some pretty good cramping, even though it was still quite early. Shortly before the halfway point I hit bottom. Fortunately observers were supportive, urging me on, reminding me how much progress I had made. I continued hydrating and settled down with regular breathing to keep the pace as I progressed.

I saw quite a lot of my husband, Scott, as he handed off beverages and cheered me on. He did his running marathon just last year and THOUGHT he had an idea of how I felt. With just a few more to go, I was feeling quite confident that I could actually pull this off. Endorphines kicked in and the discomfort I had earlier was diminishing. With just 2 to go I knew I would make it somehow or another, though I was certain the last bit would be the hardest.

For the last one, I had to dig down deep and push harder than I ever had before, but the finish line was in sight!

And then, it was there! Andrea Rose Printz was born after 26.2 hours of labor.

I'd like to see 49% of you try that kind of marathon!

by Sheilah Printz, RD, LD, MS, MPH, & MBA!

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