After not going to the gym since the first week of my Sophmore year, I was afraid to watch the documentary of The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young. This was about the Barkley Marathon, which many people are so captivated by because most people do not finish. The 130-mile marathon was inspired by James Earl Ray’s 1977 prison break from Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary.
The physical preparation these people were willing to do in order to be in the marathon, was truly inspirational. It made me question my lack of motivation in working out for an hour, no doubt less than the 60-hour hypothesized time it takes to finish. I really liked that the main determination was in themselves but I think unconsciously there is something attractive about being apart of the select group that has finished when so many do not.
After finishing the documentary, I applauded those who did not finish as they stayed and support the rest of the participants because it really showed that they really wished the best among their peers. It also verified that it was a personal goal free of selfish rewards. I plan on going to the gym today.
Wow. I’ve never heard of the Barkley Marathons but they sounds very intense. I ran track for one year of high school and I hated running for 90 minutes, but that has nothing on 60 hours. But I agree, it does serve as a great workout motivation knowing people do it.
“I plan on going to the gym today.”
I completely feel this! The amazing feat of strength, both physical and mental, displayed by all the athletes was incredibly inspiring. I loved the camaraderie between them, too; there was something about the event that was so captivating to watch, but it’s difficult to articulate exactly what.