My first marathon is in 8 days (and counting) and I've been having some serious self doubt moments (more often than not). I had a rough go this season with my training. It's the most INconsistent training I've ever done in my life but I kept it up. I've had a few injuries that had me slow down plus the stress of fundraising (I'm running w/TNT), part time school, full time work, and home responsibilities. Oh yeah, add on the stress of my husband losing his job in September and it's been a mess. Because of my injury (piriformis/ITB) my longest run has been 17 miles at a very very easy aerobic pace. My biggest trepidation is that I am just plain scared out of my mind. I've ran 4 HM (2 last year within 6 weeks of each other) and I've never felt the way I do right now about my marathon. I'm seriously second guessing even going through with it but I've come this far so I have to try. Everyone tells me that no matter what I will finish and they're right but I'm just scared. I'm telling you guys because I hope there is someone out there who has gone through the same thing. I actually had a few bouts where I took a whole week off and then there was some time where I was only running two days a week. Not nearly enough for a marathon I know. That's what has me the most scared is knowing that my training was really crappy due to life stresses. I just need some reassurance that I will make it. Besides, it is my first marathon so no matter what I run it in, it will be a PR. Maybe when I get there next Saturday, things will start to come together and I'll calm down a little.

Thanks Perf. I'll definately post a RR here when I get back.

I think the nerves are part of it. Just take it easy on yourself. I remember going through the same thing. I really didn't know until the last k or so if I could do it... but if you keep putting one foot in front of the other you WILL get there. You will always rmember your first marathon. I jumped up and down so much with excitement when I finsihed they couldn't put the medal on me. Remember to smile at the finish line for the photos and post a RR.

I think I'll go down to the frig, open a nice pale ale and toast to turboterie's first marathon........ ..........Cheers! Best of luck!

Lot's of good responses here already, but I'll throw in my two cents. Don't be scared. Marathons aren't easy, but if you take the attitude that you're doing it for fun, and keep your pace under control in the early miles, you'll be fine. You may feel once you get started that it feels good, and you can run something close to your half marathon pace. Don't fall for that. Decide right now what your goal is, based on your half marathon times and what you know about how under-trained you might be. In a marathon, a goal pace is not something you try to beat, it is something you try to stick to, at least for the first 20 miles. So decide your goal pace, an easy, fun run pace, and run it as far as you can. If you have to slow down or walk toward the end, it's not a problem. You're still becoming a marathoner. You can only do what you can do. There's nothing to be afraid of or stressed out over. Enjoy!