Aiming for a full marathon with my husband. The big day is finally here.

I wrote an article like this before, but
today, the full marathon finally arrives.

When I was five months postpartum,
"Wouldn't it be cool if I could finish a full marathon as a goal for my maternity leave!?"
That was the rather simple reason I started marathon training.

That said,
most of the practice time I was given
was just the one-hour lunch break during my husband's remote work.

Especially between February and March,
there were errands for the kids during the day,
and my husband had to go into the office frequently,
"Being home during the day" x "Husband working from home"
these conditions rarely overlapped,
so I couldn't practice as much as I wanted.

Because of the anxiety of not being able to practice,
there were times I took my frustration out on my husband.

Making time for the marathon itself became stressful,
and there were days I thought, "Maybe I should just quit."

Even so, I managed to make it this far by cooperating with my husband.

On days when I couldn't get enough time, I ran just a few kilometers.
On days I couldn't go for a run, I did strength training while watching the kids.

Doing what I can, step by step.

The stage for my first full marathon is
the Itabashi City Marathon.

Although it is an event certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations, the time limit is 7 hours.
It is a beginner-friendly race.

I adjusted my shoes.
I got my physical condition in order.
I prepared energy gels and cold-weather gear as well.

I did what I could.

But honestly, I only have about 30% confidence that I can finish.
I am terrified.

Still, I want to believe in myself and aim for the finish line.
It's okay if I walk part of the way. I want to finish if I can.

My target time is around 5 and a half hours.

Well, let's see what happens.
I'm off.