'The Skinny' on Those Maniacs

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Just finished reading today's Wall Street Journal that includes an article on the rising trend of 'mega marathoners' and just what motivates someone to essentially devote so many waking hours and income to run marathon after marathon. To no one's surprise, those in pursuit of such big goals tend to be middle-aged and at their peak income, at least when they start chasing race tallies rather than race times.

For 'Mega Marathoners,' the Race is On ... To Run More Races

Here's a passage that stood out to me:

Scientists have studied compulsive running, not only in humans but in rats and mice. Some compare it to eating disorders like anorexia nervosa.

Michael Sachs, a professor at Temple University in Philadelphia who studies exercise addictions and usually runs 18 miles a week, says for most people, running multiple marathons is simply a passion, like skiing or surfing, and not a disorder. He says runners enter addiction territory only when they can't control their urge to race. "If running marathons is at the top of your list of values above all else," says Dr. Sachs, "that might be something to worry about."


What's your take on this theory?

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