DANGERS OF DISTANCE RUNNING?

Since I've started running (and progressing!), I've become increasingly more excited about what's to come for me in the sport.  Like probably every beginner, I look forward to the day when I can complete a half marathon or maybe even a full 26.2.  If other people can do it, I can do it - right?  Well, as a frequent reader of the Runner's World forums, I came across a post this morning about distance running and cardiac arrest.  Uh oh.  Insert sobering pause.

The post was about a young man who had run a marathon and had collapsed due to a heart attack upon crossing the finish line.  There was some discussion about whether the human heart was designed to work that hard, and for that long.  As runners, when we see progress we are tempted to push farther and faster because our body has accepted what we've thrust upon it.  So we assume that it can take more.  Every smart beginner will start by building miles and speed slowly -- but is there a threshold for some, or most, of what the body can take?  My excitement about running such long distances one day was immediately tempered.

I did a bit more digging on the subject and read a few more articles, like this one.  The general consensus seems to be that most cardiac incidences were brought about by previously undiagnosed, underlying conditions of which the runners were unaware.  In a nutshell, if it wasn't the distance running, it was going to be something else -- sooner rather than later.  While a bit comforting to know that there was at least a reason behind the marathon-related deaths, it brought home to me that none of us are invincible.  

I know it's said again and again, but remember -- before starting an intense exercise program, check with your doctor!  After I train for and complete my upcoming 10k at the end of March, I plan to start training for a half marathon next winter/spring.  I am also going to hustle myself to my doctor and request a treadmill stress test based on my distance running plans.  Don't be the undiagnosed percentage -- be responsible, and get a head to toe checkup before subjecting your body to such intense training.  Running is great for you, but do it with a clear conscience knowing that your body is ready.  Run responsibly and run with happiness!