The Marathon Mixtape
Because nobody runs 26.2 miles with only silence.
In 490 B.C. a Greek soldier named Pheidippides ran 26.2 miles back to Athens to announce victory in battle. After exclaiming the victory he dropped dead. Insane people such as myself decide to run this distance as well, but we call it a marathon. Regardless of why you run, you question your own sanity during months of training. I'll be running my second marathon this year in Chicago, so I'm spending a good portion of my time on the lakefront, my iPod keeping me company mile after mile. Below are some great songs to throw on a running mix, whether you're going for a fast jog or a 10-mile tempo run. Remember to hydrate, try not to chafe (I wish I was kidding about this warning) and that no matter how hard you try - you will never look cool running. But when you cross that finish line, none of that will matter.
Battles – Atlas - This song not only sets a good starting pace, but it's long enough that when it's done, you've covered at least a half a mile or more.
Woodhands – Dancer - If you shout along, "You're a very good dancer, what is your name what is your name?" on the running trail, you might get a few odd looks.
Dan Deacon - The Crystal Cat - When I interviewed Dan Deacon I told him I was training for a marathon with this song. He laughed. I'm not sure if it was at my song choice, or the fact that my dumb ass was training for a marathon.
The Hives - Try It Again - The cheerleading vocals will either pep you up or make you want to punch someone in the face. Either feeling is acceptable when running long distances.
Girls Aloud – Biology - I have to play some syrupy sweet pop music to distract me from the fact I can no longer feel my lower legs.
Girl Talk - Bounce That - Girl Talk is great for long runs, because when you get bored you can play the game "Guess What Song Girl Talk Sampled!"
Kanye West – Stronger (A-Trak Remix) - When I feel like I can't run anymore, I put this remix on, mouth along the words and kick out some more mileage.
Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run - This song is cheesy, and I've never liked "The Boss." So why do I constantly listen to it when I run? At my first marathon last year, they had music playing as you crossed the starting line. Can you guess what song was playing when I crossed? You haven't lived until you are running with a few thousand ecstatic singing people as a crowd of what will be more than a million cheers you on. It was easily one of the most high adrenaline awe-inspiring moments of my life. Worth the miles in training, the aches and pains, the weird hydration fanny packs, the two toenails lost and the ridiculous looks you get from people when you tell them you are indeed going to run a marathon.
Posted by Lisa White on Jul 24, 2008 @ 7:02 am
