After a curious google in early 2026 search of “walking marathon” I found there is an all walking marathon course. This course, unlike those for runners, is open an entire 11 hours! When I found “Walk Wisconsin” I knew I wanted in.
The beginning
Years ago I challenged myself to walk 50,000 steps in a day. And while I was in the midst of doing that, I realized I was probably close to marathon territory. So I joked in that challenge video that maybe someday I will walk a marathon. The idea has always lingered… and THIS year it became a goal!
Training
I spent the entire spring training…. basically just by walking a lot! I also bought nice shoes and insoles (WOW do they make a difference)
I used Chat GPT to come up with a training guide…. that I loosely followed. But truly, my guide was walk everyday…. somedays more than others. I only had 3 intentional walks; 2 10-milers and 1 16 miler.
Marathon Goal
I didn’t have too many goals and they were quite simple 1) complete it before time ran out 2) do it fasted. The fasted part may sound crazy, but remember…. I am 6 years in and know that I feel phsycially best while fasting! Also, I trained fasted nearly every walk. On top of that, my 50K steps in a day challenge was done fasted. Bottom line, it wasn’t a new skill to fast and do something physical. Honestly, I think it’s a demonstration of how GOOD one can feel when metabolically flexible and used to fasting.
Walk Day
Matt joined me on the marathon weekend (although, no, he did not train!). We both signed up, drove the 7 hours from Kalamazoo to Stevens Point, WI. We had an adorable AirBnB close to the race. The day of the race we got there at 6 am for a 7 am start time. I had no clue how parking would be, if registration would take forever… well turns out I worried for nothing. We were parked, registered, ready to go with nearly 40 minutes to spare. We saw a few others start and we decided to, too. Afterall, there were no course timers and no prizes…. why wait longer?
It was a GORGEOUS course! We had warmth, sunshine and a variety of scenes. I was also loaded with my charged phone and podcasts galore.
I enjoyed the time, I finished the course, but honestly… I didn’t catch a bug to do another. I love walking, but 26.2 miles felt excessive. I ended bored, ready to be done and SORE!
BUT, regardless… I felt wonderful from an energy stand point. Of course, I am talking… from an energy standpoint of after walking a marathon. I didn’t feel weak or starved. I kept my fast all day and was excited to break my fast the next day
UP DAY
After fasting from Friday’s OMAD to Sunday morning, and walking 26+ miles in that fast…. I was excited to break my fast and have a nice, long up day!
It just so happened to be our anniversary the day we drove home. So this break-fast breakfast was extra special! Yay for the marathon, Yay for 18 years of marriage.
After a full day fast (referred to as a down day) I always have an up day (referred to as an up day). So we had the most delightful breakfast at Polver Cafe and I snacked all the way home on the drive, including getting a second meal on the road at Taco John’s. Fancy? No…. Enjoyable? Absolutely! 
Joy!
I love that I have both the joy of a fast & the joy of an eating window. Because the two truly are a daily part of my life, I will continue to share in hopes others find the same joy!
I did this experiment to push myself. I love goals, I especially love achieving them. However, I also want to motivate YOU to see that a full life is possible as an intermittent faster!! Jackie of June 2020 wouldn’t ever believe I would have a marathon medal, be maintaining a healthy weight AND not feel like I am constantly questioning every bite I take. And I want that for everyone…. Surprise yourself 6 years from now!!
