More Than Just Miles: What Running 100 Taught Me

One hundred miles. And event that up to last August I thought was out of my reach. But having completed it, a year later, heres what I learnt.

This wasn't just any race for me. It was a race with significant change on the horizon- the arrival of my unborn son. It felt sooner than ideal but this turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

It was also a considerable jump compared to the 110km I had completed before. Which equated to an extra marathon on top (with some change.)

Below are the top 3 lessons I learnt from training for and running over 100 miles.

Lesson 1- eat the elephant.

As the old saying goes, how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

Although this is a funny saying it does have some truth. The enormity of the task felt overwhelming at the time and even at points during the race.

So rather than dwelling on the scale of the challenge. I made a plan and simply focused on executing the next stage of that plan. In training, it was about the next long run. In the race, it was getting to the next checkpoint.  

If a task seems too big or unachievable. Break it down to manageable chunks and just focus them one at a time.

Lesson 2- Bite off more than you can chew, then chew it.

This was a saying I picked up from a PE teacher of mine. I know logically it doesn’t make any sense. But I have always loved the sentiment.

Pick a goal you think is out of reach. And then find a way of achieving it anyway. Many of us, myself included, are playing life on easy mode. It's only when you are presented with a big challenge, that you truly realise what you are capable of.

So pick a big, scary goal……and get after it.

Lesson 3- you are capable of more than you think.

100 miles felt like a big jump for me and make no mistake, it was tough.

But now it’s said and done. I know I have more in the tank for future adventures.

I only know that because I have pushed myself further than I probably thought possible at the time. 

And as time went on I had confidence, that I could complete the task at hand.

It was a powerful reminder than if we push ourselves we are capable of incredible things. Step out of your comfort zone and see what you are truly capable of. You will surprise yourself.

And if you need help, don't hesitate to get in touch via any of the links below.

About the Author:

Hi my name is Ollie McCarthy and I am a Running Coach and Personal Trainer in Tunbridge Wells. I help people to build fit, robust and capable bodies that look good but also perform well. This is done through a combination of running, mobility, strength and conditioning work.

E: Ollie@mccarthysf.com

T: 07828573920