Or a half marathon or any distance running/walking event? The answers are different for different people. Some do it "because it's there" or "because I can" or "because it's hard" or "because my (insert friend, sibling, spouse etc) is doing it and he/she talked me into it too". Some people take on the challenge for a cause, some take on the challenge for personal goals, and some take on the challenge because they like challenges.
At USAFit/Philly the marathon is the carrot at the end of the stick. Getting, or staying in shape, is a difficult exercise (pun intended). Few people will work out without a goal; without some measure of success. The marathon gives us that goal; that measuring stick.
The marathon provides the structure to our weekly workouts. Group runs/walks are about more than just putting in the miles. Along the way we learn about hydration, fueling, injury prevention, gear, nutrition and pacing and more. We learn how to do speed workouts and tempo runs. We learn by doing and by helping others do what is necessary to achieve the goal.
Most of the folks who join Phillyfit will complete a full or half marathon at the end of the season. Some choose to participate in the program for fitness without the race goal. Both groups though will come away happier and healthier. Both groups will learn things about fitness. Both groups will learn about how far they can push their own limits; many will be surprised to find it's further than they thought possible.
And everyone comes away new friends with a common interest.
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