Anonymous wrote:I'm a runner and I have done both full and half marathons. For me, the best thing about running a marathon is having run a marathon. I do not think it was good for me; I do feel I was pushing my body in an unhealthy way (this could be the opposite for other people, I know). The truth is that I did not enjoy the full marathons and did not feel well after the race, so I don't do fulls anymore.
The half marathon distance is perfect for me, and I feel great after finishing. I also regularly do 10k and 5ks. But I am a self-indulgent creature and I run because it feels good and keeps me in shape. Full marathons don't do much for me in either of those areas.
Anonymous wrote:eventually it will destroy your knees.
Anonymous wrote:Compared to taking up jogging/running or preparing for a 5k, then yes, a marathon is unhealthy.
If you want to exercise for health, then be thoughtful about it. Take care of your body, no one else will.
Anonymous wrote:Maybe start with a 10K or 10 miler. If you go straight to marathon, it could stress your body if you don't ramp up properly.