Adidas Sundown Marathon - Part 2 Mechanical Man

Mechanical Man
Got better with some Glucosamine/Chondroitin combo drug from GNC. Started training again and with some gradual step up training, have managed to increase my MTBF*. For the update, my last run cleared approximately 18km before the left knee gave way.

My Take on Marathon Training:
The marathon experience is quite different from normal runs. In a normal run, timing is dependent on stamina and muscle strength. Not that stamina and strength isn't important. Strength/stamina could be stretched to amazing levels, just like fuel, they could also be replenished via pit stops and proper nutrition along the way. In runs that lasts hours, the benefits of periodic rests outweights the time difference of not stopping at all**.

Injuries however, with the possibility of permanent damage, can instantly put a runner out of the game. A long distance run therefore, requires careful management of speed and body mechanism. The aim is to minimize wear and tear. This is much harder than it sounds, the slightest improper footing, or placing more weight on either leg, eventually accumulates to incapacitating pains when amplified over a thousand steps.

Thus the MTCF description. To be ready for a marathon, it is necessary to condition one's joints to tolerate the prolonged pounding. Adopt the proper running posture to prevent premature injury failure. Proper equipment helps too.

That said, it's incredibly frustrating to have to stop a run before your stamina runs out.

*Mean time before failure
**Imortals are an exception to this fact.