Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Are you ready to rock?

When you first hear the words “rock ‘n’ roll,” nothing about sports really comes to mind. But this year the 3rd annual Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure is being hosted right in our backyard.

Why Rock ‘n’ Roll? Because this event offers a unique flavor to the already-spicey blend of live entertainment, scenic courses, supportive spectators, inspiring cheerleaders and post race concerts you’ll never forget.

 The Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon is going to be hosted in downtown San Antonio on Nov. 14.

This year’s marathon has lots to offer on and off the course. Participants can enjoy the rich history and color of San Antonio as they run throughout the course. Forget your earphones at home, because live music is going to be playing along each mile of the course.

“It’s really exciting to be apart of,” said Mark Young, senior business major. “It’s going to be a tough run because I’m going to attempt the full run for the first time.”

Ana Liebeskind is also a “Rock ‘n’ Roll” first timer.  “This is my first marathon, so I’m only going to run the half marathon,” said Liebeskind, senior education major. “I think 13.1 miles is all I can take!”

Marathons are extremely tough and training is extensive, especially if  training for a full marathon,  26.2 miles. A typical training schedule consists of 10-12 weeks prior to the marathon of 4-6 days a week, one day of speed work, and one day of long runs.

Dieting and nutrition are just as equally important to training. “Carbohydrates and fluids are probably the most important [ingredients] you will need during your training and during the run,” said Annie Bell M.S., R.D., L.D.

“Carbohydrates are the fuel for your muscles. It fuels every cell in your body. It’s what will keep your going,” said Bell.

Training for a marathon is harder than one thinks. It requires time, patience, endurance and self-motivation. It’s hard work because of the amount of time that’s needed to dedicate just for training.

“I’m training at early as 6 or 7 in the morning about 5 or 6 days a week, and right now I’m running about 15 miles a day and that’ll increase by a mile every week,” said Young.

“Luckily I already eat healthy, so I don’t have to change my diet too much. But I make sure I [consume] lots of water and cards,” said Leibeskind.

Even if the runner’s diet isn’t as healthy as it should be, just substituting a few foods for something else could make a big difference, according to the training programs that can be found on the Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon’s website.

“Whole grains, low fat foods, lean meat, and healthy fats like avocados, peanut butter and fruits,” said Bell. “A stir-fry with brown rice and lean chicken breast cooked with olive or canola oil is an ideal meal.”

No, that’s not a recipe, but meals with low fat and high carbohydrates are perfect ingredients to keep energized and ready for a long run. “Typically, while training you would want 30-60 grams of carbohydrates, and at least be drinking 64 ounces of fluids, because you want to make sure you don’t dehydrate,” said Bell.

Dehydration can be fatal if not enough fluids are being consumed, so it’s really important for runners to know exactly what they’re getting into before attempting a long run.

Finishing any sort of challenge is big deal and such an ego-booster for self-satisfaction.

Running a full marathon, or even a half marathon, is a big decision because of the amount of hard work needed to be dedicated to the run. “I’m trying to motivate myself and running this half marathon will accomplish my goal,” said Liebeskind.  

The Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon is a benefits the Susan G. Komen  for the Cure and is part of a nation-wide series across the United States including Arizona, Denver, Chicago and Las Vegas.

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