You cannot always run at your best.

I can't even imagine what it's like to run for 5 or 6 hours.

Aiming for the marathon is a task of sorts which can include terrific highs and lows.

Good health, peace of mind, being outdoors, camaraderie - those are all wonderful things that come to you when running. But for me, the real pull of running - the proverbial icing on the cake - has always been racing.

The advice I have for beginners is the same philosophy that I have for runners of all levels of experience and ability -- consistency, a sane approach, moderation and making your running an enjoyable, rather than dreaded, part of your life.

Runners are the ultimate celebration people. Running is just so intense, you're really experiencing life to the fullest.

Don't feel guilty about driving somewhere nice to run. If people can drive to a park to eat hot dogs, you can drive there to run.

The marathon can humble you.

That's fine; we runners are, after all, up for a challenge.