If you are considering running a marathon, you may be experiencing several emotions: fear, excitement, anxiousness. I experienced all of these feelings.The anticipation of running in the Chicago Marathon was scary, yet so amazing! Here are some takeaways I gained from running in the Chicago Marathon.

1. The feeling you get from the crowd and city is exhilarating.

I never felt so much love in my life. The breeze from the lake, amazing fans, and runners from all over the world make this race special in so many ways. I remember one time a girl giving me a banana. For a second I thought it belonged to her. She looked at me laughing and said, no it’s for you! I forgot simply how encouraging this world can be. The fans are on their feet most of the day, dedicating all their time just to cheer for those that simply love to run.

2. Running a marathon takes patience and dedication.

During training, I found myself getting impatient and frustrated. Nearly two months before the race, I developed a knee injury. Unfortunately, the knee pain didn’t go away when I wanted it to. If you experience an injury while training, please focus on your health and be patient. Ice, baths, and cross training became my new friend. While I wanted to run like I used to, I had to accept my condition for what it was. I may not have finished at the pace I wanted to, but I don't think I would have been able to run if I neglected this pain.

3. Fundraising for a charity can be challenging, but it is so worth it!

I remember my dad and grandpa reacting when I told them I had to raise 1,500 dollars, or I wouldn’t be able to run. “You what?” and “You won’t be able to raise that much money.” Fundraising can be difficult if you have limited resources, but doing it a little at a time can be easier. All the support you have from your family and friends feels like such a blessing. I was amazed at how many people wanted to help me reach my goal. From my elementary school gym teacher to supervisors, It felt so nice to have people that really cared about my cause. It also felt so amazing crossing the finish line, knowing I ran for all those who simply could not.

4. Not everyone will understand why you are running 26.2 miles, and that is okay.

You may expect your friends to be there to cheer you on. I mean, you are running 26.2 miles. Isn’t that important? Not everyone will understand the struggle it is to carve out time to run 17 miles when the temperature isn’t 80 degrees out, or how worried you are about an injury. You don’t need to tell the world about your personal training problems or experience. Find another runner to talk to about your experience, or join a running group!

5. I spent time relaxing after the marathon, and that’s okay, too.

After the race, I wanted to take a break from running. 6 months later, I finally felt the urge to start running long distance again. I had toenails fall off, my knees felt weak, and I just wanted a break. If you feel your body needs a break from running, take it! You deserve that recovery and break.

6. You will get tired at mile 20. Keep going.

I remember conversing with a lady who had run in several marathons before the race. This lady was so excited for me. I remember her saying with so much excitement, "It is your first marathon, how awesome!" She had run all over the world from Paris to California; I wanted to hear her experiences. She began to explain to me our bodies can do so much more than we think.

As long as I put in the work, I would be just fine. I found this to be true in so many ways. She did warn me that mile 20 was going to be a struggle. It sure was. As I kept looking for the mile markers, they seemed to keep getting farther and farther away. The sun began beating more intensely, I remember reading the mile marker at mile 17, just wanting it to say 20. My goal was to run all 20 miles without stopping. When I hit the 20-mile mark, I began walking on and off. At mile 24, I found someone who was running. I told myself I would stick behind that person and continue to run the rest of the way. Find your inspiration and stick with it, whatever that may be.

7. Take the water, Gatorade, bananas, and energy gels from the crowds.

Your body needs them more than you think. You are probably running anywhere in between 4-6 hours. Your body may go into shock. I cannot stress how much all of this nourishment helped me.

Out of everything I have learned, I've learned that the Chicago Marathon has such a special place in my heart. If you are considering running a marathon, do it. I promise it is not as bad as you think.