The SAT vs the Marathon

When I took the SAT in October 2009, the students thought I was the proctor!  It was helpful to relive the test-taking experience plus I learned a lot of grammar.  A marathon is an interesting comparison as preparation for an athletic event is very similar to an academic event. 
There is a peak performance aspect -- the preparation is the key -- actual timed practice as well as self-care (sleep, food, etc) help with mental and physical  performance.  At the end of the day regardless of the results, the payoff is in the energy and effort expended.

I was inspired by a 2009 Wall Street Journal article written by a reporter whose teenage son dared her to take the SATs What I Learned from the SATs.

SAT                      vs.                           Marathon

4.5 hours                                              Variable

Indoors                                                 Outdoors

Teens                                                    Various age levels

Increase cognitive abilities                      Improve physical fitness