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Finding Joy in the Process

Finding Joy In The Process Of Marathon Training by Christi Dee for Run Tri Bike

Training for a marathon is grueling, a test of endurance, and a battle against one’s physical and mental limits. While the finish line is undoubtedly a rewarding goal, there’s an overlooked treasure in the process itself: the joy of the journey.

From “Have To” to “Get To”

Those who set their minds on completing long endurance events sacrifice comfort on a daily basis—whether it’s by missing out on an event because of an early bedtime, getting up at 4 a.m., avoiding indulgent foods, or being disciplined enough to stick to a schedule of weight training and recovery when laying on the couch sounds so much better. But instead of looking at the training lifestyle as filled with things you “have” to do, I challenge you to look at it as a list of things you “get” to do—all of which will lead you to success in reaching a goal.

In my 18+ years of training for endurance events, I have found that a key factor in determining if running will have longevity in your life is whether you can find these joys and embrace them. Marathon training transforms running into more than just a workout. It becomes a ritual of self-discovery, discipline, and growth. Each run, whether a short recovery jog or a long weekend effort, offers a chance to connect with your body and mind. The repetitive rhythm of your feet hitting the ground becomes meditative. There is a soothing cadence that clears the clutter of daily life. You will learn to cherish those moments.

Celebrating the Small Wins

By approaching the training lifestyle with a positive mindset, you’ll find there is so much joy to be found in the little things. Celebrate all the steps in the journey, no matter how small. Progress in training brings its own kind of happiness. What once felt impossible—a five-mile run, a faster pace, or conquering a steep hill—becomes achievable with consistent effort. These small victories serve as powerful reminders of human resilience and the reward of perseverance. And as cliché as it sounds, these small steps make up giant leaps that prove each of us can do hard things.

The joys of marathon training extend beyond physical achievements. Moments of community with fellow runners who understand the grind will bring you joy. The community that is alongside of you is there to celebrate and support your journey. Joy can be found in the quiet mornings when the world is still asleep. Those quiet morning when it is just you, the road, and the sunrise can be magical. There will come a time when there is a realization that your body—something you might have once doubted—is stronger and more capable than you ever imagined.


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Embracing the Highs and Lows

Finding joy in the process also means embracing the ups and downs. Not every run will feel amazing, and some days will test your patience. There will be runs where your legs feel like lead, your lungs burn, or the weather refuses to cooperate. But even on the hardest days, there’s joy to be found in showing up, lacing your shoes, and taking one step closer to achieving your goal. Those challenging days often teach us the most valuable lessons. We learn about grit, determination, and the power of simply continuing to move forward.

Ultimately, the marathon itself is just a moment in time, a culmination of months of effort, sweat, and discipline. But the journey to get there is where life happens. It’s in this journey that you grow, learn, and discover the best version of yourself. By cherishing the process, you’ll find that the joy doesn’t stop at the finish line. That feeling will stay with you for miles beyond. The lessons, resilience, and pride you gain will spill over into every other aspect of your life. And in an unsuspecting moment it will prove to you that the journey truly is the reward.

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Christi Dee running coach and contributor to Run Tri Bike

Christi Dee is an RRCA-certified running coach, a UESCA-certified Endurance Sports Nutrition Coach, and a passionate advocate for distance running. With over 18 years of experience in endurance sports, Christi has completed 42 marathons and numerous ultramarathons, making her a seasoned veteran bringing a variety of personal experience to the table. She works with athletes both in-person and virtually across the U.S., helping them achieve their running goals while emphasizing the importance of life balance, proper nutrition, strength training and recovery.

Beyond coaching, Christi is also a children's book author. Her book, Can A Frog Jog? (available on Amazon), introduces young readers to finding friends within the running community.