By KVAL News Published: Feb 23, 2012 at 1:34 PM PST

EUGENE, Ore. - As the countdown to the Eugene Marathon continues, hundreds of runners are logging their miles.

From music to running partners, runners have a trick or two up their sleeves to conquer the mental challenge of running.     

"You start to think, why am I - is there really a good reason for me doing this again?" said runner Jack Anderson.

Anderson is one of the local long-distance runners who brave the elements to run.

He is not alone in trying to trick himself into putting down the miles.

"I picture a string, like pulling...

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