Hello and welcome to my Boston Marathon 2012 blog! I will providing updates on my journey over the next 5 months as I train to take part in the one, the only, Boston Marathon. Check back soon! Thank you for your support!
Read below for my adventure to the finish line of my first marathon in beautiful San Diego this past June. It was quite the ride!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Monday, June 20, 2011
Race Report!
It's sort of like being at an amusement park as a kid. You look in the distance and see the biggest roller coaster you've ever seen. You reluctantly get in line, part excited, part terrified. You inch your way to the start, all the while wondering what you're in for. In the seat with the bar in place, there's no turning back. The ride starts, and you make it through the first few drops and loops. Phew! Then it evens out for a bit. But just when you think it's almost over, you're pulled over one last stomach dropping turn. And at that moment, you may question your decision to get on the ride in the first place, but it's too late. You're in it. And just as quick as it started, it's over. And you've survived. As you exit the ride and walk away, you say, "That was awesome!" and run right back in line to do it again.
Flashback to Friday, June 3, 2011:
Welcome to San Diego! We had finally made it. After 4 months of training race weekend had finally arrived. And not just any race, our very-first-marathon race weekend. The excitement was almost palpable. And so was the fear. But we tried to keep that at bay and enjoy our Friday night activities.
We went to the Expo which was very exciting. Our first marathon bib pick up, swag bag, timing chip and official race jacket purchase (which, after some debate, was decided should not be worn until after the race.) We walked around the expo which was full of running related vendors, everything from sneakers, to nutrition, to apparel to.... wine? PF Chang's was sampling wine and giving away fortune cookies. We decided it was a good idea to skip the wine.
For dinner that night we went to a great Mexican restaurant in the Gaslamp District close to our hotel. The Padres were playing, so there were fans mulling around (much more laid back than a home game at Fenway). After a huge meal and still on east coast time, we called it a night. Not sure how much of us actually slept, though!
Saturday morning: We woke up early and went for a 15 minute jog to get the nerves out. It was already pretty warm at 8:30 in the morning, which was a preview of what race morning would feel like. Following our run, we went out for breakfast, but not just any breakfast. The big feed. Our last supper (jk!). Looking at the table, you would have thought there were twice as many people sitting down to eat. Eggs, omelets, pancakes, home fries, toast, fruit... you name it. Carb loading at its finest! Pack it in, our coach had told us. Did we ever!
Saturday Night: TNT Inspiration Dinner. As we ascended the escalator of The Hilton where the event was being held, we heard all this yelling and cheering. Where is that noise coming from? As we got off the escalator, every TNT coach and employee at the event were lining the hallway, cheering us on with noisemakers as we walked into the huge ballroom. They were not only getting us pumped for the next day, but also cheering on the fact that we all fundraised for this great charity. I have to say this was one of my favorite parts of race weekend.
John "The Penguin" Bingham was the MC of the Inspiration dinner night. He had us all laughing as he described to the first time marathoners in the crowd what to expect the next morning. He said we'd probably wake up around midnight freaking out that we overslept. When morning came we'd have the emotional stability of a two year old. He told us to look to the left and the right of us, and he guaranteed one of the three of us would do something without thinking race morning, like the runner who thought it would be a good idea to eat prunes, after never having eaten them during training...
In total, TNT participants for the San Diego half and full marathon raised 9 million dollars for LLS!
After dinner, we gathered for a pre-race meeting with our coach, Carolyn. I was nervous, but also calm. I think part of my brain was still harping on the distance, but another part of my brain was saying I'm trained and I can run it. Overall it was a feeling of acceptance. Tomorrow was the big day and no amount of freaking out was going to change that. It was game time. Time to take this head on. I was strangely able to sleep that night which was a welcome surprise.
Sunday, June 5th 2:45am: Alarm goes off. I set right to work getting ready, which was pretty easy since I had laid everything out the night before. I was downstairs by 4am. One of my teammates wrote all of our names on our arms in big black sharpie marker. One last group photo and we were on the bus to the start!
5am: Balboa Park Runners Village. We ate again, hydrated, used the rest rooms, applied sun block. We were finally here, the starting line! When I first started training back in February, many people told me getting to the starting line healthy is half the battle. And here I was!
We made our way to corral 14. Not too much time went by before they announced the start of the race! And about 15 minutes later, our corral was released!
As each mile went by it was inspiring to look at the spectators and their signs, as many of them were patients or survivors. Some of the signs read, "Thank you for 14 years cancer free" or in memory or honor of an individual. Being a Rock and Roll Marathon, there were also many local bands along the course.
People ask me what I was thinking during the race. To tell the truth, I wasn't thinking about much. The best way to describe it is that I was focusing. Not on the heat, or the mile I was at, just focusing on my plan and making sure I stuck to it. Not putting a value judgment on anything (I'm only at mile 3, I still have 23 to go...), because I knew that could sabotage the whole race and get me in a bad place mentally. I looked at whatever what in front of me, and didn't let my mind stray.
The way I broke down the 26.2 miles was 10 and 10, and then I'd figure out the last 6. The first 10 sort of floated by. At that point I envisioned our 20 mile training run where we ran out and back. So at mile 10 I pretended I was running "home", or back. The second 10 were fine as well, also uneventful (this sounds boring, but I guess that is a good thing!). Around mile 13 the back of my leg started bothering me, which radiated up and down my right leg. Luckily I was able to run through it. I just tried to ignore the pain. Again, I stayed focused (not on the pain).
I said to the two others I was running with that after mile 13 it's really going to feel like a marathon. Mile 13 - 15 were ok, and then 15-18 was an out and back, and it seemed like forever until we reached the turnaround! My coach was at mile 18, and it was so good to see her. TNT coaches from all over the country lined the course, providing support and encouragement to runners in purple. My coach yelled to us, "You're doing it!!" which gave us a boost.
At this point, I knew I was two miles from 20, and then from there it was the homestretch. I was still feeling pretty good at this point, besides the annoying pain in my leg, which I just tired to ignore. It was starting to warm up and the sun being out the whole morning was starting to take a toll. We ran in shade at every opportunity (which weren't many).
Mile 19... 20... and welcome to Fiesta Island. The last leg of the marathon. The course took runners onto the island for the last 5 miles. An island sounds nice, doesn't it? Probably any other occasion but a marathon. There were no spectators, no bands, just an island where we pounded out the last 6 miles. Miles 20-22 were mentally tough, but not letting my mind stray was important. I knew I was close and could finish, I just had to get through this patch.
At this point it was one foot in front of the other and ticking off the miles. Miraculously, before I knew it, I was finally at 24, after what seemed like the longest miles ever (where is that next mile marker!?!).
So close! Keep going! I think one of the best moments in my life was seeing mile marker 25, because I knew I was there. At that point, we were coming off the island (finally, off the island!!) and in the distance you could see the finish line. At this point all the pain and weariness in my legs faded, and I sprinted to the finish. It was probably more like normal pace, but after having slowed down the last few miles it felt fast. I was there. I could see the finish and the crowds. I was almost home!!!
Finally off the island and in the final stretch, spectators once again lined the course. I looked around to take in the moment, and I'll never forget people cheering me on those last few minutes. I felt strong and good and kept running. A spectator said "Only about 3 more minutes of running." After four hours and 21 minutes, it was music to my ears.
As I ran those last three minutes, it was a personal feeling of accomplishment unlike any other. I had conquered the marathon. I took on the monster and won!!
At the finish, I waited for my friend to come through. I was surprisingly OK at this point. My legs and feet ached, but I was still mobile as we entered the finishers area. Pretty beat up, and with my friend who could barely walk because of her knee, we slowly made our way to the TNT finishers tent. Being an official "finisher" was also surreal knowing that I just run a whole marathon. Maybe I was just surprised I was still walking and talking!!
So now, two weeks after finishing my first marathon, I am that kid who wants to run back in line and ride the scary ride again. This has been a life changing experience and I am grateful and honored for the opportunity to run as a member of Team in Training. As Jacquie's mother wrote to me, hopefully one day we can all run for fun because there will be a cure. I couldn't agree more.
Thank you to those who have followed my journey and supported me throughout the last 4 months. I couldn't have done it without you!
Sarah
Flashback to Friday, June 3, 2011:
Welcome to San Diego! We had finally made it. After 4 months of training race weekend had finally arrived. And not just any race, our very-first-marathon race weekend. The excitement was almost palpable. And so was the fear. But we tried to keep that at bay and enjoy our Friday night activities.
We went to the Expo which was very exciting. Our first marathon bib pick up, swag bag, timing chip and official race jacket purchase (which, after some debate, was decided should not be worn until after the race.) We walked around the expo which was full of running related vendors, everything from sneakers, to nutrition, to apparel to.... wine? PF Chang's was sampling wine and giving away fortune cookies. We decided it was a good idea to skip the wine.
For dinner that night we went to a great Mexican restaurant in the Gaslamp District close to our hotel. The Padres were playing, so there were fans mulling around (much more laid back than a home game at Fenway). After a huge meal and still on east coast time, we called it a night. Not sure how much of us actually slept, though!
Saturday morning: We woke up early and went for a 15 minute jog to get the nerves out. It was already pretty warm at 8:30 in the morning, which was a preview of what race morning would feel like. Following our run, we went out for breakfast, but not just any breakfast. The big feed. Our last supper (jk!). Looking at the table, you would have thought there were twice as many people sitting down to eat. Eggs, omelets, pancakes, home fries, toast, fruit... you name it. Carb loading at its finest! Pack it in, our coach had told us. Did we ever!
Saturday Night: TNT Inspiration Dinner. As we ascended the escalator of The Hilton where the event was being held, we heard all this yelling and cheering. Where is that noise coming from? As we got off the escalator, every TNT coach and employee at the event were lining the hallway, cheering us on with noisemakers as we walked into the huge ballroom. They were not only getting us pumped for the next day, but also cheering on the fact that we all fundraised for this great charity. I have to say this was one of my favorite parts of race weekend.
John "The Penguin" Bingham was the MC of the Inspiration dinner night. He had us all laughing as he described to the first time marathoners in the crowd what to expect the next morning. He said we'd probably wake up around midnight freaking out that we overslept. When morning came we'd have the emotional stability of a two year old. He told us to look to the left and the right of us, and he guaranteed one of the three of us would do something without thinking race morning, like the runner who thought it would be a good idea to eat prunes, after never having eaten them during training...
In total, TNT participants for the San Diego half and full marathon raised 9 million dollars for LLS!
After dinner, we gathered for a pre-race meeting with our coach, Carolyn. I was nervous, but also calm. I think part of my brain was still harping on the distance, but another part of my brain was saying I'm trained and I can run it. Overall it was a feeling of acceptance. Tomorrow was the big day and no amount of freaking out was going to change that. It was game time. Time to take this head on. I was strangely able to sleep that night which was a welcome surprise.
Sunday, June 5th 2:45am: Alarm goes off. I set right to work getting ready, which was pretty easy since I had laid everything out the night before. I was downstairs by 4am. One of my teammates wrote all of our names on our arms in big black sharpie marker. One last group photo and we were on the bus to the start!
5am: Balboa Park Runners Village. We ate again, hydrated, used the rest rooms, applied sun block. We were finally here, the starting line! When I first started training back in February, many people told me getting to the starting line healthy is half the battle. And here I was!
We made our way to corral 14. Not too much time went by before they announced the start of the race! And about 15 minutes later, our corral was released!
As each mile went by it was inspiring to look at the spectators and their signs, as many of them were patients or survivors. Some of the signs read, "Thank you for 14 years cancer free" or in memory or honor of an individual. Being a Rock and Roll Marathon, there were also many local bands along the course.
People ask me what I was thinking during the race. To tell the truth, I wasn't thinking about much. The best way to describe it is that I was focusing. Not on the heat, or the mile I was at, just focusing on my plan and making sure I stuck to it. Not putting a value judgment on anything (I'm only at mile 3, I still have 23 to go...), because I knew that could sabotage the whole race and get me in a bad place mentally. I looked at whatever what in front of me, and didn't let my mind stray.
The way I broke down the 26.2 miles was 10 and 10, and then I'd figure out the last 6. The first 10 sort of floated by. At that point I envisioned our 20 mile training run where we ran out and back. So at mile 10 I pretended I was running "home", or back. The second 10 were fine as well, also uneventful (this sounds boring, but I guess that is a good thing!). Around mile 13 the back of my leg started bothering me, which radiated up and down my right leg. Luckily I was able to run through it. I just tried to ignore the pain. Again, I stayed focused (not on the pain).
I said to the two others I was running with that after mile 13 it's really going to feel like a marathon. Mile 13 - 15 were ok, and then 15-18 was an out and back, and it seemed like forever until we reached the turnaround! My coach was at mile 18, and it was so good to see her. TNT coaches from all over the country lined the course, providing support and encouragement to runners in purple. My coach yelled to us, "You're doing it!!" which gave us a boost.
At this point, I knew I was two miles from 20, and then from there it was the homestretch. I was still feeling pretty good at this point, besides the annoying pain in my leg, which I just tired to ignore. It was starting to warm up and the sun being out the whole morning was starting to take a toll. We ran in shade at every opportunity (which weren't many).
Mile 19... 20... and welcome to Fiesta Island. The last leg of the marathon. The course took runners onto the island for the last 5 miles. An island sounds nice, doesn't it? Probably any other occasion but a marathon. There were no spectators, no bands, just an island where we pounded out the last 6 miles. Miles 20-22 were mentally tough, but not letting my mind stray was important. I knew I was close and could finish, I just had to get through this patch.
At this point it was one foot in front of the other and ticking off the miles. Miraculously, before I knew it, I was finally at 24, after what seemed like the longest miles ever (where is that next mile marker!?!).
So close! Keep going! I think one of the best moments in my life was seeing mile marker 25, because I knew I was there. At that point, we were coming off the island (finally, off the island!!) and in the distance you could see the finish line. At this point all the pain and weariness in my legs faded, and I sprinted to the finish. It was probably more like normal pace, but after having slowed down the last few miles it felt fast. I was there. I could see the finish and the crowds. I was almost home!!!
Finally off the island and in the final stretch, spectators once again lined the course. I looked around to take in the moment, and I'll never forget people cheering me on those last few minutes. I felt strong and good and kept running. A spectator said "Only about 3 more minutes of running." After four hours and 21 minutes, it was music to my ears.
As I ran those last three minutes, it was a personal feeling of accomplishment unlike any other. I had conquered the marathon. I took on the monster and won!!
At the finish, I waited for my friend to come through. I was surprisingly OK at this point. My legs and feet ached, but I was still mobile as we entered the finishers area. Pretty beat up, and with my friend who could barely walk because of her knee, we slowly made our way to the TNT finishers tent. Being an official "finisher" was also surreal knowing that I just run a whole marathon. Maybe I was just surprised I was still walking and talking!!
So now, two weeks after finishing my first marathon, I am that kid who wants to run back in line and ride the scary ride again. This has been a life changing experience and I am grateful and honored for the opportunity to run as a member of Team in Training. As Jacquie's mother wrote to me, hopefully one day we can all run for fun because there will be a cure. I couldn't agree more.
Thank you to those who have followed my journey and supported me throughout the last 4 months. I couldn't have done it without you!
Sarah
Monday, May 23, 2011
Hard Part's Over
It is now May 23rd and I am 13 days from my very first marathon! So close yet sooo far away. The week after the 18 miler, we ran 20 miles (such a surreal experience!) and then the 3rd week was 17. That was a hard three weeks! The 20 miler went well, the 17 wasn't as enjoyable. Burnout was the only way to describe it. But we made it through, and tapering had finally begun.
As I reflect on the past 4 months and look forward to the next two weeks, I've realized the hard part is over. Yes, I have 26.2 miles left to run, but I've made it through training. I made it through the hilly long runs, the track workouts, the early Saturday mornings, the early Friday nights, the planning and organizing and schedules. The sore muscles and exhaustion and at times, the thoughts of "What am I doing?!". I've raised over $3,000 for a very worthy cause, which is my biggest accomplishment in all of this. I've learned about myself, about life, and about running. The marathon will truly be a celebration of the last four months and all the hard work that went into getting me to the start line. Whatever happens after the gun goes off doesn't matter all that much.
These next two weeks are rest and rejuvenation as I gear up to run San Diego on June 5th! Wish me luck!
As I reflect on the past 4 months and look forward to the next two weeks, I've realized the hard part is over. Yes, I have 26.2 miles left to run, but I've made it through training. I made it through the hilly long runs, the track workouts, the early Saturday mornings, the early Friday nights, the planning and organizing and schedules. The sore muscles and exhaustion and at times, the thoughts of "What am I doing?!". I've raised over $3,000 for a very worthy cause, which is my biggest accomplishment in all of this. I've learned about myself, about life, and about running. The marathon will truly be a celebration of the last four months and all the hard work that went into getting me to the start line. Whatever happens after the gun goes off doesn't matter all that much.
These next two weeks are rest and rejuvenation as I gear up to run San Diego on June 5th! Wish me luck!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
18 miler!
This past Saturday we ran 18 miles! I still can't believe it. Here is how it went.
We gathered at BSC and at 8:00am headed for the T. We were going to take the green line to Woodland, the 2nd to last stop outbound. We were all a little anxious - we've never run this far!
We arrived at our destination where we met Coach and some other team members. Running in a new area is always fun, so we were looking forward to the change in scenery. We reviewed the course and where the water stations would be. I, being map challenged, usually rely on someone else to know where we're going. It's worked well so far, but I hope I didn't just jinx myself! (this is why I always carry cash and T pass!)
After we all had a general idea of the course, coach said she had an inspirational moment to share. Over the past 13 weeks, team members have shared their personal experiences with surviving cancer, and others a relative. One woman told the story of her mother who has passed away from a rare type of brain cancer. While she was fighting the disease, her daughter (my current teammate) starting raising money and walking marathons. Her mother stood at the finish line of her first marathon with a spatula. When my teammate finished, she saw her mom and asked, "Why in the world do you have a spatula?" Her mother replied, "Because, I thought I was going to have to scoop you up off the ground". She still has that spatula.
This morning, coach shared the story of her own mother who would have turned 66 that very day, April 30th. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and went into remission after having experimental treatment. Years later it came back, but this time in her bones. She passed away a year and a half ago. Fighting back tears, she thanked all of us for doing what we are doing, because even though her mother didn't have Leukemia or Lymphoma, the money raised for cancer research affects all who battle the disease. And it also funds experimental treatments like the one her mother had which extended her life.
I was taken back by this story and her strength to tell it. My TNT coach is very inspirational for many reasons, and this added one more.
After that emotionally charged opening, we now had 18 miles ahead of us! And we're off! Two steps in, my new water belt starts bouncing everywhere. "Mechanical failure" as one of my running partners proclaimed. It sure was. Then what every runner should live by flashed through my mind, "Don't try anything new (on a long run)!"
I ended up carrying it for a while, then strapping it around my shoulder on my back. It was at least some comic relief to me and my running mates. Mile 9 I ditched it at the first water station in my coach's car. It has since been returned to City Sports. Lesson (re)learned, don't try anything new!
We ran through Wellesley and then back to Boston on our favorite course, Heartbreak Hill. We stopped briefly at both water stations to goo and continued. Overall, we did great. We kept a steady pace, and ran strong. As we neared Boston, my legs started talking to me, but we were almost home. We ended back at BSC. We made it! 18 done!
We gathered at BSC and at 8:00am headed for the T. We were going to take the green line to Woodland, the 2nd to last stop outbound. We were all a little anxious - we've never run this far!
We arrived at our destination where we met Coach and some other team members. Running in a new area is always fun, so we were looking forward to the change in scenery. We reviewed the course and where the water stations would be. I, being map challenged, usually rely on someone else to know where we're going. It's worked well so far, but I hope I didn't just jinx myself! (this is why I always carry cash and T pass!)
After we all had a general idea of the course, coach said she had an inspirational moment to share. Over the past 13 weeks, team members have shared their personal experiences with surviving cancer, and others a relative. One woman told the story of her mother who has passed away from a rare type of brain cancer. While she was fighting the disease, her daughter (my current teammate) starting raising money and walking marathons. Her mother stood at the finish line of her first marathon with a spatula. When my teammate finished, she saw her mom and asked, "Why in the world do you have a spatula?" Her mother replied, "Because, I thought I was going to have to scoop you up off the ground". She still has that spatula.
This morning, coach shared the story of her own mother who would have turned 66 that very day, April 30th. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and went into remission after having experimental treatment. Years later it came back, but this time in her bones. She passed away a year and a half ago. Fighting back tears, she thanked all of us for doing what we are doing, because even though her mother didn't have Leukemia or Lymphoma, the money raised for cancer research affects all who battle the disease. And it also funds experimental treatments like the one her mother had which extended her life.
I was taken back by this story and her strength to tell it. My TNT coach is very inspirational for many reasons, and this added one more.
After that emotionally charged opening, we now had 18 miles ahead of us! And we're off! Two steps in, my new water belt starts bouncing everywhere. "Mechanical failure" as one of my running partners proclaimed. It sure was. Then what every runner should live by flashed through my mind, "Don't try anything new (on a long run)!"
I ended up carrying it for a while, then strapping it around my shoulder on my back. It was at least some comic relief to me and my running mates. Mile 9 I ditched it at the first water station in my coach's car. It has since been returned to City Sports. Lesson (re)learned, don't try anything new!
We ran through Wellesley and then back to Boston on our favorite course, Heartbreak Hill. We stopped briefly at both water stations to goo and continued. Overall, we did great. We kept a steady pace, and ran strong. As we neared Boston, my legs started talking to me, but we were almost home. We ended back at BSC. We made it! 18 done!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Recovery Week
Last week was a 'recovery' week from the last three weeks of long runs (12, 14, 16). We ran 10 miles yesterday morning on a rainy spring Saturday in Boston. The city was quiet, in stark contrast to the previous week when it buzzed with marathon excitement. This Saturday we run 18. Ek! Have to go rest up and eat! More to come soon!
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| Homemade vegetable lasagna. Very good! |
Well hello IT band.
One thing I've learned is that for some things, go to the expert. For example, getting properly fitted for running sneakers. You or I looking at our feet probably wouldn't know what kind of shoe to wear, so best to rely on someone who does. Another area where I turned to the expert is injury prevention and treatment.
Of course you'd go see someone if you are injured or have pain, right? Wrong. Too many people run through pain. It took me far too long to realize that if something is hurting when you run, your body is yelling at you to stop and re-evaluate what you are doing. It could be the shoes, or maybe a long term injury that you thought "comes with the territory". Our bodies are made to run (think back to when you were 5, you ran everywhere), so if there's pain, there is probably a reason.
Of course you'd go see someone if you are injured or have pain, right? Wrong. Too many people run through pain. It took me far too long to realize that if something is hurting when you run, your body is yelling at you to stop and re-evaluate what you are doing. It could be the shoes, or maybe a long term injury that you thought "comes with the territory". Our bodies are made to run (think back to when you were 5, you ran everywhere), so if there's pain, there is probably a reason.
My right knee has always given me some trouble. For years it hasn't felt as good as my left, which feels strong and stable in comparison. My left is just a tab more unsteady, and I was experiencing pain during runs. My new shoes took away 85% of the pain (go figure). At the TNT kick off event, there was a physical therapist there who I started talking with. She suggested it might be a good idea to get an overall assessment early in training, to evaluate any muscle weaknesses that may contribute to existing pain or injuries down the road. I made an appointment the following Monday.
My assessment didn't reveal anything spectacular. I knew I (thankfully) didn't have too many major issues, but what it did reveal was quite a large muscle imbalance in my lower body. My left leg and hip were a lot stronger than my right, which resulted in knee pain in the latter.
Long story short, two months of PT and a series of stretches and strengthening exercises later, my left leg/knee is feeling good. One of the things I do regularly is foam roll. It's a piece of foam (that's probably worth about $1.00, but which running stores sell for about $20), that you lay on and roll your leg muscles over, especially the side of the leg where your IT band runs from the hips to the knee. It's like a deep tissue massage, but for much less. At first it is extremely painful, but overtime the IT band loosens and becomes more pliable. It then better supports the knee and help it track properly.
The IT band... it's a good find!
My assessment didn't reveal anything spectacular. I knew I (thankfully) didn't have too many major issues, but what it did reveal was quite a large muscle imbalance in my lower body. My left leg and hip were a lot stronger than my right, which resulted in knee pain in the latter.
Long story short, two months of PT and a series of stretches and strengthening exercises later, my left leg/knee is feeling good. One of the things I do regularly is foam roll. It's a piece of foam (that's probably worth about $1.00, but which running stores sell for about $20), that you lay on and roll your leg muscles over, especially the side of the leg where your IT band runs from the hips to the knee. It's like a deep tissue massage, but for much less. At first it is extremely painful, but overtime the IT band loosens and becomes more pliable. It then better supports the knee and help it track properly.
The IT band... it's a good find!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Heartbreak Hill, you've got nothing on us.
Today we ran our longest distance to date... 16 miles! I can't believe it. We started from our usual spot in Back Bay, and ran out and back on the last leg of the marathon course. We ran Heartbreak Hill, not once but twice. The Boston Marathon course is fairly flat until runners reach mile 19/20, where they hit the Newton Hills, also known as Heartbreak Hill. Comprised of three distinct slopes amidst rolling hills, what makes these hills particularly hard is their placement in the marathon. They come at the very end, when runners are running on empty and their legs feel like jello. But, it is also what makes the already prestigious Boston Marathon a notorious course to run. This is not amateur hour. The Newton Hills will eat you. Only the strong survive.
Sometimes I feel like "The Marathon" is like a fictitious character, or monster is more like it, who is trying to defeat all who tackle it. As soon as you sign up, it tries to take you down at all angles. I recently watched the movie "Spirit of the Marathon" and one runner said "you need to respect the marathon", meaning you need to respect and train for 26.2, or else you will pay. There is no "winging" a marathon. The distance will laugh at you, and you will be defeated. I am doing my best to respect the marathon. It will have to find someone else to eat for breakfast.
Speaking of survival, I sometimes think of marathon training as being on an episode of Survivor. After each week and Saturday run I make it through, I feel "safe" for another week. Not kicked off the island yet. The Marathon gods have not defeated me. I'm still in the game (take that, marathon gods).
Next Saturday is a 10 mile run to recover from the last three long ones, and then we climb in distance again. Never thought I'd say this, but 10 will seem short in comparison. But when did a 10 mile run become "not that long"? Must have been somewhere along Heartbreak Hill.
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| 16 ... and we lived to talk about it...! |
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
14....16....!
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| Go Team! |
This week marks #10! And welcome long runs. 14 last week, and a daunting 16 this week (including Boston Marathon's Heartbreak Hill). Last week we ran through Southie to Castle Island, and this week we're running the last leg of the Boston Marathon course, out and back. Wish me luck!
Marathon Monday is next week, so exciting! For those of you out of staters, Marathon Monday falls on Patriots Day in Boston, and many businesses close for the day. It's like Christmas but in April.
I am sneaking away on my lunch break to catch a glimpse. I'm going to my favorite spot. It's the corner of Boylston and Hereford in Back Bay. Once the runners turn onto Boylston, they can see the finish line for the first time (!!). Such emotion on each runner's face. It gives me chills just thinking about it!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Do The Breath
Training for an endurance event necessitates certain things: strength training, cross training, endurance runs, healthy diet, enough sleep, etc. But recently I've heard a term that piqued my interest. It's a part of one's training that rises above the rest. Something that gives them an "edge". This ladies and gentleman, is called 'the secret weapon'.
I found this amusing. Sounds like something out of a murder mystery. My TNT coach recently talked about hills in her neighborhood that she would inevitably run each time she went out for a jog, simply because they were at the start and end of her course if she were beginning from home. "I swear those were my secret weapon, because when I went out for group runs I killed it."
Do I have a secret weapon? If not, I want one! Turns out I might have one all my own. Has it helped me break records and win races? No, but that's not what I'm aiming for anyway. Has it helped me become a stronger runner? Absolutely.
It all started in the basement of the elementary school down the street from my apartment. Elementary school gym? you might be asking. What strenous activity can go on there. We begin with the breath, Do the breath, my instructor repeats over and over. In through the nose, out through the mouth. Engage, don't clench. Again.
Is part of some new age spiritual awaking practice? No. Yoga? (I'll get into my love for yoga in a moment). Close, but not yoga.
Pilates.
It all started almost 4 years ago when my friend and I decided to sign up for Pilates offered through Brookline Adult Ed. Previously having completed three rounds of Cooking Classes (aka eating class), we figured it would be good to switch it up and try something new. Fairly confident in my abdominal fitness, I thought, 'This will be fun. I'm not too worried about it. I'm in pretty good shape, I can handle a few crunches."
Flash forward 8 weeks to the end of the first session. I was sore. I mean every-part-of-my-body, sore. Arms, legs, ABS, neck muscles. Not only was I sore the last week, I was sore every week up until that point. Every single class would leave me aching, and by the time I recovered it was time for the next class. This isn't what I bargained for, I thought. If anything only my abs would be sore! Why can't I move my arms normally! Will the back of arms ever stop hurting?? I pleaded. I begged, but with each class the soreness persisted.
I soon learned Pilates, particularly this class and this instructor, is no joke. I remember about 10 minutes into my first class I knew I was in for it. I couldn't do half the moves! It was a STRUGGLE. My point in sharing the agony of that first session was that I for sure under estimated the power of pilates as a total body workout.
It got me thinking. Here I am with just myself and my mat. No free weights, machines, or props. And it is the most incredible full body workout I've ever had, all in 2 hours a week. How can that be? Don't you need weights or those bulky machines at the gym to build muscles? Turns out all you need is your own body weight. That is what I love about Pilates, is that it uses gravity and your own body weight for resistance. I was once told the best measure of how in shape you are is how well you're able to manipulate your own body weight. For example, can you hold plank for at least a minute (from hands and knees, extend legs all the way) without collapsing? At first I couldn't. Now, several Pilates sessions later, I can.
And it feels so natural. Jerking a bulky machine up and down with varying amounts of weights just doesn't feel right after you've done pilates or yoga.
In a world where we rush from place to place, and where our lives have been simpled by machines, we rush to another place in which we voluntarily exert force against other types of machines. This place is known as "the gym." While I am all for gyms, and the opportunities to increase fitness and overall health that are offered, I have been fortunate enough to explore an alternative, and I believe a much more natural way, of gaining strength in the mind and body.
My Pilates teacher often tells us before class to bring the mind in. If you're mind is elsewhere, you're unable to maintain the necessary focus to do each move. Same for yoga. Yoga is based on the premise of bringing the mind and body together, so that when you're in an strenuous pose (as in life, we are often in uncomfortable positions), you can bring your focus to your breath to calm your mind and get through it moment by moment. Similarly, yoga uses natural body weight as resistance with a focus on sustaining different poses while muscles are stretched and strenghtened.
How can I tell Pilates has helped? For one thing, I stand up taller when I run since I'm supported by better abdominal muscles. Why is this important? It helps reduce injury since my running form is better (knees over feet, not leaning forward or slouching). Also a stronger core/upper body I've noticed helps to propel me forward with each stride. Since every movement originates from the core (think about it, they don't call it your "core" for nothing), it makes sense that if it's strong, movement of the extremities will be more efficient (less work needed) since you're not compensating for a weak center. And when I'm running hills or doing a track workout, I do the breath. Bringing focus on your breath and not how tired you are really helps!
Four years later (three of which I took Pilates on a regular basis), I am not longer sore (yay!). Each class is still challenging, but I wake up able to move my arms and legs like a normal person. I'm more flexible, stronger all over, and have a new appreciation for the connection between mind and body. Try it! You'll be glad you did.
I found this amusing. Sounds like something out of a murder mystery. My TNT coach recently talked about hills in her neighborhood that she would inevitably run each time she went out for a jog, simply because they were at the start and end of her course if she were beginning from home. "I swear those were my secret weapon, because when I went out for group runs I killed it."
Do I have a secret weapon? If not, I want one! Turns out I might have one all my own. Has it helped me break records and win races? No, but that's not what I'm aiming for anyway. Has it helped me become a stronger runner? Absolutely.
It all started in the basement of the elementary school down the street from my apartment. Elementary school gym? you might be asking. What strenous activity can go on there. We begin with the breath, Do the breath, my instructor repeats over and over. In through the nose, out through the mouth. Engage, don't clench. Again.
Is part of some new age spiritual awaking practice? No. Yoga? (I'll get into my love for yoga in a moment). Close, but not yoga.
Pilates.
It all started almost 4 years ago when my friend and I decided to sign up for Pilates offered through Brookline Adult Ed. Previously having completed three rounds of Cooking Classes (aka eating class), we figured it would be good to switch it up and try something new. Fairly confident in my abdominal fitness, I thought, 'This will be fun. I'm not too worried about it. I'm in pretty good shape, I can handle a few crunches."
Flash forward 8 weeks to the end of the first session. I was sore. I mean every-part-of-my-body, sore. Arms, legs, ABS, neck muscles. Not only was I sore the last week, I was sore every week up until that point. Every single class would leave me aching, and by the time I recovered it was time for the next class. This isn't what I bargained for, I thought. If anything only my abs would be sore! Why can't I move my arms normally! Will the back of arms ever stop hurting?? I pleaded. I begged, but with each class the soreness persisted.
I soon learned Pilates, particularly this class and this instructor, is no joke. I remember about 10 minutes into my first class I knew I was in for it. I couldn't do half the moves! It was a STRUGGLE. My point in sharing the agony of that first session was that I for sure under estimated the power of pilates as a total body workout.
It got me thinking. Here I am with just myself and my mat. No free weights, machines, or props. And it is the most incredible full body workout I've ever had, all in 2 hours a week. How can that be? Don't you need weights or those bulky machines at the gym to build muscles? Turns out all you need is your own body weight. That is what I love about Pilates, is that it uses gravity and your own body weight for resistance. I was once told the best measure of how in shape you are is how well you're able to manipulate your own body weight. For example, can you hold plank for at least a minute (from hands and knees, extend legs all the way) without collapsing? At first I couldn't. Now, several Pilates sessions later, I can.
And it feels so natural. Jerking a bulky machine up and down with varying amounts of weights just doesn't feel right after you've done pilates or yoga.
In a world where we rush from place to place, and where our lives have been simpled by machines, we rush to another place in which we voluntarily exert force against other types of machines. This place is known as "the gym." While I am all for gyms, and the opportunities to increase fitness and overall health that are offered, I have been fortunate enough to explore an alternative, and I believe a much more natural way, of gaining strength in the mind and body.
My Pilates teacher often tells us before class to bring the mind in. If you're mind is elsewhere, you're unable to maintain the necessary focus to do each move. Same for yoga. Yoga is based on the premise of bringing the mind and body together, so that when you're in an strenuous pose (as in life, we are often in uncomfortable positions), you can bring your focus to your breath to calm your mind and get through it moment by moment. Similarly, yoga uses natural body weight as resistance with a focus on sustaining different poses while muscles are stretched and strenghtened.
How can I tell Pilates has helped? For one thing, I stand up taller when I run since I'm supported by better abdominal muscles. Why is this important? It helps reduce injury since my running form is better (knees over feet, not leaning forward or slouching). Also a stronger core/upper body I've noticed helps to propel me forward with each stride. Since every movement originates from the core (think about it, they don't call it your "core" for nothing), it makes sense that if it's strong, movement of the extremities will be more efficient (less work needed) since you're not compensating for a weak center. And when I'm running hills or doing a track workout, I do the breath. Bringing focus on your breath and not how tired you are really helps!
Four years later (three of which I took Pilates on a regular basis), I am not longer sore (yay!). Each class is still challenging, but I wake up able to move my arms and legs like a normal person. I'm more flexible, stronger all over, and have a new appreciation for the connection between mind and body. Try it! You'll be glad you did.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Directional Signs
When I look back on how I came to this place in my [running] life, it was anything but a straight shot. By no means did I wake up one particularly motivated day and say, "I'm going to train for a marathon." Rather it was a series of twists and turns. The best way to explain is to describe the path which led me here...
I decided to run my first half marathon in Fall 2010, after my roommate had run the year prior and inspired me. Then, 13 miles was a daunting task, just like any new distance. But I was determined to take on the challenge. I googled "1/2 marathon training schedule", found one I liked, and started running.
Thinking ahead to those 10 mile runs and not wanting to go it alone, I set on a mission to find other people in the area to run with. So next, I googled 'Boston running groups' and was presented with a list of 15 or so. Some were outside the city, and others were in Cambridge, Somerville, and of course the prestigious B.A.A. (Boston Athletic Association) running club. Being new to the idea, little did I know most charge dues, have a coach, organize speed workouts once a week on a local track, and offer a environment for competitive running (aka people who have retired from the sport but still do it for fun).
Not ready to jump into a full fledged running club, I read online that a local running store had a run group that met Saturday mornings. This seemed a great alternative to a formal club, and it was right up the street. So I went that next Saturday.
The first time there was another runner my pace and was wanting to run the same distance, so we paired up. The week after, I wasn't so lucky. Everyone was much faster, and they left me in the dust (literally!). No way could I keep up with the other runners that week and their 7:30 pace (or something equally as speedy). They were all training for an upcoming marathon and after about a half mile, I fell behind.
Even though this didn't pan out, it was my first taste of organized group running with people I had never met, and it was fun (minus the leaving me in their dust part). I liked running with a complete stranger just as much as I did a friend, and it made the time fly by.
Still wanting to find other runners in the neighborhood (and my pace) to train with, I looked into two other groups that looked promising. One was TMIRCE (The Most Informal Running Club Ever), and the other was Community Running. I started with Community Running. They looked like a group of friendly runners, and they even volunteered together (I've been meaning to get back into volunteering, this could be a two for one). And most importantly they welcomed all ability levels. The only disadvantages were that they charged a fee, and their meeting spot for long runs was across the river (meet to run at 7:30am on a Saturday, that means I would have to leave to catch the bus at 6:45am...). Nonetheless, I signed up to receive their daily emails.
Then one day, one of the members had posted a message about a new run group in the Brookline/Brighton/Allston area. Great! I thought, this was my neighborhood and would be very convenient. I was excited and emailed the group organizer to get on their mailing list.
This group was very unlike the first two. Since the group was brand new, there were no set runs, just members emailing out a location and time and asking if anyone wanted to join. I ran a few times with various people during the week and enjoyed the company.
Getting farther into my training, I was still hoping to find someone to run my long Saturday morning runs with. I emailed this group and a handful of people responded that they were interested. I ended up running consistently with a girl named Anita. It was great to have company and I really cherish those training runs. It was my first time exceeding 9 miles, and with the scenic backdrop of the Charles River on beautiful summer mornings... what could be better?
One Saturday, another member of the group came along. He was training for Chicago, and had dabbled in different running groups around town. He was also a member of TMIRCE - The Most Informal Running Club, the other group I had saw online that piqued my interest. Turns out this group was formed because the founder was fed up with pretentious running circles in Boston, so he and a few friends started their own and made it very clear that this was a fun, informal, running group for anyone. No dues and all ability levels welcome. It seemed to spread like wildfire, and in the three years it's been around, hundreds, if not thousands, have joined for a run at one point or another. And the greatest draw, besides the "informal" part, is that everyone sticks around for a pot luck breakfast where people socialize and refuel.
So the three of us continued on our run, and near the end, he pointed across the street at a playground area and said, "Oh, that's where TMIRCE meets for their runs." "That's where they meet?" I said. It was just over the BU bridge, and not hard to get to at all (maybe a 15 minute walk from my apartment). At that moment I felt he was my personal tour guide, guiding me in the direction of where I was meant to go next.
I continued running with Anita each week. I ran my half marathon in October, and for sure my training had paid off. What a great feeling!
Late Fall, I wanted to continue running to stay in shape, so I joined TMIRCE for their weekly runs. Immediately I was welcomed with open arms, and before I knew it I had a new running partner, Elisa. This was definitely more my scene. Just a friendly group of runners getting together each week, as much for the socialization and eating than for the actual running. And they begin each run with a striking of a gong!
One week, two of Elisa's friends joined. The four of us ran the usual loop around the Charles - up to the Museum of Science and back down the Cambridge side to the BU bridge - all in all about 6.5 miles. Me and one of the friends starting talking, and I learned they had both run two marathons and were training for their third. They don't strike me as marathoners, I thought. That was back when I thought someone who ran a marathon looked like an Olympian, with not an ounce of fat and a frame supporting well defined muscles. These girls looked just like any other girl in her 20s, but wow, they were not only one time marathoners, but were working on their third.
They had done their first two through Team in Training. At that point I had only briefly heard of TNT, but wasn't very familiar. She described the support they were given throughout, the fundraising component, and overall what a great experience it was. I tucked that conversation into the back of my mind, still no where close to signing up myself. Then I decided to make it a point to learn more, since the conversation did inspire me in some small way, or maybe a big way without even realizing it at the time. I came home and went to the TNT website, and watched the intro video, and was truly moved. What a great way to help a worthy cause, while fulfilling a life long dream!
Some weeks later, I saw ads on the subway for TNT - "We train to beat cancer" was their slogan. At that point I said fine, I'll call and attend an information session. The rest is history. I threw caution to the wind and signed up for the my first marathon!
Some may say it was just a matter of time before I signed up for my first marathon. This could not be any farther from the truth. Had I not been guided here, I am sure I would not have arrived of my own accord. I truly believe I was directed to where I am today. If I had never signed up for the Community Running list serve, I never would have learned about the Brookline/Brighton/Allston run group, and I never would have run with that guy who told me where TMIRCE met, and I never would have gone to TMIRCE to meet Elisa and her friends who told me about their experience with TNT. And without them telling me about it, I wouldn't have been inclined to look more into it and attend an informational session, and ultimately join the Boston TNT team and train for San Diego.
Sometimes life gives us directional signs as to where we are meant to be!
I decided to run my first half marathon in Fall 2010, after my roommate had run the year prior and inspired me. Then, 13 miles was a daunting task, just like any new distance. But I was determined to take on the challenge. I googled "1/2 marathon training schedule", found one I liked, and started running.
Thinking ahead to those 10 mile runs and not wanting to go it alone, I set on a mission to find other people in the area to run with. So next, I googled 'Boston running groups' and was presented with a list of 15 or so. Some were outside the city, and others were in Cambridge, Somerville, and of course the prestigious B.A.A. (Boston Athletic Association) running club. Being new to the idea, little did I know most charge dues, have a coach, organize speed workouts once a week on a local track, and offer a environment for competitive running (aka people who have retired from the sport but still do it for fun).
Not ready to jump into a full fledged running club, I read online that a local running store had a run group that met Saturday mornings. This seemed a great alternative to a formal club, and it was right up the street. So I went that next Saturday.
The first time there was another runner my pace and was wanting to run the same distance, so we paired up. The week after, I wasn't so lucky. Everyone was much faster, and they left me in the dust (literally!). No way could I keep up with the other runners that week and their 7:30 pace (or something equally as speedy). They were all training for an upcoming marathon and after about a half mile, I fell behind.
Even though this didn't pan out, it was my first taste of organized group running with people I had never met, and it was fun (minus the leaving me in their dust part). I liked running with a complete stranger just as much as I did a friend, and it made the time fly by.
Still wanting to find other runners in the neighborhood (and my pace) to train with, I looked into two other groups that looked promising. One was TMIRCE (The Most Informal Running Club Ever), and the other was Community Running. I started with Community Running. They looked like a group of friendly runners, and they even volunteered together (I've been meaning to get back into volunteering, this could be a two for one). And most importantly they welcomed all ability levels. The only disadvantages were that they charged a fee, and their meeting spot for long runs was across the river (meet to run at 7:30am on a Saturday, that means I would have to leave to catch the bus at 6:45am...). Nonetheless, I signed up to receive their daily emails.
Then one day, one of the members had posted a message about a new run group in the Brookline/Brighton/Allston area. Great! I thought, this was my neighborhood and would be very convenient. I was excited and emailed the group organizer to get on their mailing list.
This group was very unlike the first two. Since the group was brand new, there were no set runs, just members emailing out a location and time and asking if anyone wanted to join. I ran a few times with various people during the week and enjoyed the company.
Getting farther into my training, I was still hoping to find someone to run my long Saturday morning runs with. I emailed this group and a handful of people responded that they were interested. I ended up running consistently with a girl named Anita. It was great to have company and I really cherish those training runs. It was my first time exceeding 9 miles, and with the scenic backdrop of the Charles River on beautiful summer mornings... what could be better?
One Saturday, another member of the group came along. He was training for Chicago, and had dabbled in different running groups around town. He was also a member of TMIRCE - The Most Informal Running Club, the other group I had saw online that piqued my interest. Turns out this group was formed because the founder was fed up with pretentious running circles in Boston, so he and a few friends started their own and made it very clear that this was a fun, informal, running group for anyone. No dues and all ability levels welcome. It seemed to spread like wildfire, and in the three years it's been around, hundreds, if not thousands, have joined for a run at one point or another. And the greatest draw, besides the "informal" part, is that everyone sticks around for a pot luck breakfast where people socialize and refuel.
So the three of us continued on our run, and near the end, he pointed across the street at a playground area and said, "Oh, that's where TMIRCE meets for their runs." "That's where they meet?" I said. It was just over the BU bridge, and not hard to get to at all (maybe a 15 minute walk from my apartment). At that moment I felt he was my personal tour guide, guiding me in the direction of where I was meant to go next.
I continued running with Anita each week. I ran my half marathon in October, and for sure my training had paid off. What a great feeling!
Late Fall, I wanted to continue running to stay in shape, so I joined TMIRCE for their weekly runs. Immediately I was welcomed with open arms, and before I knew it I had a new running partner, Elisa. This was definitely more my scene. Just a friendly group of runners getting together each week, as much for the socialization and eating than for the actual running. And they begin each run with a striking of a gong!
One week, two of Elisa's friends joined. The four of us ran the usual loop around the Charles - up to the Museum of Science and back down the Cambridge side to the BU bridge - all in all about 6.5 miles. Me and one of the friends starting talking, and I learned they had both run two marathons and were training for their third. They don't strike me as marathoners, I thought. That was back when I thought someone who ran a marathon looked like an Olympian, with not an ounce of fat and a frame supporting well defined muscles. These girls looked just like any other girl in her 20s, but wow, they were not only one time marathoners, but were working on their third.
They had done their first two through Team in Training. At that point I had only briefly heard of TNT, but wasn't very familiar. She described the support they were given throughout, the fundraising component, and overall what a great experience it was. I tucked that conversation into the back of my mind, still no where close to signing up myself. Then I decided to make it a point to learn more, since the conversation did inspire me in some small way, or maybe a big way without even realizing it at the time. I came home and went to the TNT website, and watched the intro video, and was truly moved. What a great way to help a worthy cause, while fulfilling a life long dream!
Some weeks later, I saw ads on the subway for TNT - "We train to beat cancer" was their slogan. At that point I said fine, I'll call and attend an information session. The rest is history. I threw caution to the wind and signed up for the my first marathon!
Some may say it was just a matter of time before I signed up for my first marathon. This could not be any farther from the truth. Had I not been guided here, I am sure I would not have arrived of my own accord. I truly believe I was directed to where I am today. If I had never signed up for the Community Running list serve, I never would have learned about the Brookline/Brighton/Allston run group, and I never would have run with that guy who told me where TMIRCE met, and I never would have gone to TMIRCE to meet Elisa and her friends who told me about their experience with TNT. And without them telling me about it, I wouldn't have been inclined to look more into it and attend an informational session, and ultimately join the Boston TNT team and train for San Diego.
Sometimes life gives us directional signs as to where we are meant to be!
Aidan
Grab a tissue. This is a very touching story but exactly why I'm doing this. When I am tired and worn out from training, I will remember Aidan!
The following correspondence is between a Team In Training participant and a donor. The TNT runner came home one night to the following note (and $100 donation) in his fundraising email. He has never met the Garveys.
The following correspondence is between a Team In Training participant and a donor. The TNT runner came home one night to the following note (and $100 donation) in his fundraising email. He has never met the Garveys.
Note from Regina Garvey to TNT Participant Justin:
In 1998, I ran 26.2 with TNT in Alaska. Never would I have guessed that 11 yrs. later, my own son would get A.L.L. (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia). On Father's Day, I took my 5 1/2 y/o son, Aidan, to the ER w/ a reoccurring cough. He was diagnosed w/ A.L.L. & put in the ICU. He responded quickly to the chemo & was in remission w/in a wk. & given a 85% chance for a full recovery. A few days later he got the Swine Flu IN THE ICU & due to his low immune system, he passed away on July 17th, just 3 1/2 weeks after the nightmare began. We've started a non-profit to fight hospital-born illnesses, but need people like you to keep raising money to find a cure for cancer so other parents don't have to feel our pain. If you could remember Aidan when you are running, we'd really appreciate it.THANK YOU, JUSTIN!Love, Regina Garvey
Justin's Response:
Dear Regina,
I make my living as a writer yet it took me days to compose an adequate response to your generous donation, and more importantly, to your story. I'm still not sure this does it justice.When I look at my two daughters, ages 3 1/2 and 15 months, I can not comprehend the pain that you and your family have endured, nor can I understand the weight of the unanswered questions that remain.A mentor and friend once told me "of whom much is given, much is expected". That expression popped into my head a few weeks ago and I had the realization, perhaps "epiphany" is a better word, that I've lived thus far a fortunate, maybe even insulated, life. It was time for me to do something to help others. I chose TNT because it would help me fulfill two goals: First, I wanted to give back, to help out my community in some way (LLS seemed to me a most worthwhile cause), and second, I've always wanted to run a marathon.When I received your email Saturday evening, I read and reread and read it again. It brought tears to my eyes and a tangible purpose to my efforts now, next January in Phoenix, and hopefully, next April in Boston. One of my goals - perhaps a pipe dream I know - is to qualify in Phoenix for Boston. If my body holds up and I do earn a spot at Boston, I'd like to help you raise money for your non-profit by running Boston for Aidan. It will be my way of saying thank you and helping your cause.You poignantly asked that I remember Aidan during my run and on race day. Of course I will. Part of my plan is to dedicate certain miles to certain people. Mile One is for me. Miles Two and Three are for my daughters. Mile 18, supposedly one of the toughest to get through, is for my Aunt Kathy, who lost a leg to cancer some 30 years ago and has been on crutches ever since.Others I'm sure will sponsor other miles. But Mile 26 is now taken.It will be just Aidan and me.Yours,Justin
Friday, February 25, 2011
Carbs: A Girl's Best Friend
There are many great things about running I've come to appreciate over the years. The high after a great run, the sense of accomplishment after reaching a personal goal, the rewards of hard work and dedication. But one outweighs the rest, and that is carb loading.
Ok, maybe it isn't the greatest part of running, but it sure ranks high on the list. Training for an endurance event is like a free pass to carb city. Physically, your body needs carbs for energy and to fuel workouts. It only takes one run to realize what it feels like when you haven't eaten enough carbs. When I trained for my half marathon last fall, soon into the training I thought, "This is great! I pretty much have to eat Brueggers Bagels on a regular basis!"
I will leave this post with an image of my week 2 Wednesday morning breakfast - an example of carb loading at it's finest. Coconut cashew chocolate chip pancakes from Friendly Toast in Kendall Square. Absolutely, amazing!
I will leave this post with an image of my week 2 Wednesday morning breakfast - an example of carb loading at it's finest. Coconut cashew chocolate chip pancakes from Friendly Toast in Kendall Square. Absolutely, amazing!
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Sunday, February 20, 2011
Toe Caps... Who'd have thought?
One thing for sure is that understanding your body as a runner and the experimenting with different type of gear is half the battle. I still remember running a 5K in high school with completely inappropriate trail running shoes which were all wrong. At that point I picked the sneaker that I thought looked the coolest, with no attention to whether it was actually the right shoe for my foot and body. I ended that race in extreme pain from shin splits, with no understanding why. 'I must not have trained hard enough. My body isn't responding! I'm frustrated!'
Little did I know it was the wrong sneaker for me. It didn't take long for me to realize that when you have the wrong fit or support, your body is working double time. Running is hard enough on the body, the key is finding a shoe that works for and not against you!
I have listed some of the gear I could not run without. I have come upon many of these simply through trial and error.
My must haves for winter running:
Toe caps are little silicon coverings that slip over your toe to protect the nail. Black toe (it's as pleasant as it sounds) results from the nail constantly pressing against some part of your shoe - either the front if your sneakers are too short, or the bottom, if your toes have a tendency to grip or claw the bottom with each stride (which is what I was doing) Toe caps are amazing! It's the little finds like this that make me (and any runner) very happy.
That concludes Week 1 of training. Time to eat! Tonight's menu: garlic and pepper marinated pork loin (from Meat House yum!), brussel sprouts and homemade asparagus risotto. And yes, one of the best parts of running is eating! After all, they say your workout is not complete until you've refueled. I've got that part down!
Little did I know it was the wrong sneaker for me. It didn't take long for me to realize that when you have the wrong fit or support, your body is working double time. Running is hard enough on the body, the key is finding a shoe that works for and not against you!
I have listed some of the gear I could not run without. I have come upon many of these simply through trial and error.
My must haves for winter running:
- Ear band, gloves (they make you look fast, it's a fact), running tights, tissues (stuff them in sleeve).
- Non-cotton socks - My feet have never been happier (and dryer)
- Toe Caps - if you know what black toe it, these are little pieces of heaven
- Brooks Adrenaline, Narrow - 1 whole size bigger than I wear in a dress shoe
- Wicking Base layer
- Wicking Mid-layer (the zipper helps when you inevitably feel over heated)
Toe caps are little silicon coverings that slip over your toe to protect the nail. Black toe (it's as pleasant as it sounds) results from the nail constantly pressing against some part of your shoe - either the front if your sneakers are too short, or the bottom, if your toes have a tendency to grip or claw the bottom with each stride (which is what I was doing) Toe caps are amazing! It's the little finds like this that make me (and any runner) very happy.
That concludes Week 1 of training. Time to eat! Tonight's menu: garlic and pepper marinated pork loin (from Meat House yum!), brussel sprouts and homemade asparagus risotto. And yes, one of the best parts of running is eating! After all, they say your workout is not complete until you've refueled. I've got that part down!
Monday, February 14, 2011
First Team Saturday Run
Laying in bed Friday night, I felt like a kid on the eve of the first day of school. I'll admit it, I was excited for the first team run the next morning! I had all my gear out and ready. I woke up the next morning, ate my trusted bagel, got ready and was out the door by 7:30am to catch the T. There were more people out and about than I would have thought. I guess 7:30 isn't that early.
We all met at 8am in Back Bay at BSC. What a gym! I couldn't believe how big it is! Before our run, we gathered in a room and had our first clinic. Shane from Marathon Sports gave a great talk on proper footwear, apparel and gear.
Some things I thought were interesting:
After some stretching and visiting with my new teammates post-run, everyone slowly started trickling out. I headed to Marathon Sports, to check out their 30% off sale on winter apparel. Shane's 'informational session' clearly had an impact, and hey, I can't resist a sale. I was in need of a running jacket, which I had been thinking about getting to round out my winter/spring running wear. It blocks the wind and rain, and is light weight so you can wear it over a mid layer, or even just a base layer as the weather warms up.
When I arrived at the store, half the team was there! Everyone was stocking up on tops, compression tights, jackets, sneakers. One thing's for sure, we'll all be looking good on our next run!
We all met at 8am in Back Bay at BSC. What a gym! I couldn't believe how big it is! Before our run, we gathered in a room and had our first clinic. Shane from Marathon Sports gave a great talk on proper footwear, apparel and gear.
Some things I thought were interesting:
- Cotton is the runner's worst enemy (it absorbs and holds moisture = makes you feel wet and uncomfortable while running)
- The ideal running form is like that of a marching solider, straight up and down, rather than leaning forward. Leaning puts your weight over your knees in an unnatural way and could lead to pain.
- Your knee should track directly over your ankle with each stride. This prevents injury and knee/leg/foot pain.
After some stretching and visiting with my new teammates post-run, everyone slowly started trickling out. I headed to Marathon Sports, to check out their 30% off sale on winter apparel. Shane's 'informational session' clearly had an impact, and hey, I can't resist a sale. I was in need of a running jacket, which I had been thinking about getting to round out my winter/spring running wear. It blocks the wind and rain, and is light weight so you can wear it over a mid layer, or even just a base layer as the weather warms up.
When I arrived at the store, half the team was there! Everyone was stocking up on tops, compression tights, jackets, sneakers. One thing's for sure, we'll all be looking good on our next run!
Week 1: Let's Get This Party Started!
This is it, time to get organized and plan out my week. Sixteen weeks sounds like an awful lot, but as I looked over the training schedule it didn't seem that long! The whole thing pretty much fit on one page! Maybe I was over reacting. But I had a slight anxious feeling of 'I need more time! We need more weeks of training, the schedule looks too short!' After I came to my senses and realized the schedule was in fact a full 16 weeks, I calmed down. I tend to over react at the onset of a large project or challenge, and think I need double the time it will actually take to complete. I've come to appreciate the fact that this it's how I'm wired. No one's perfect.
The training schedule as laid out by TNT consists of 2 strength training days, 2 cross training days, 1 easy run day, 1 long run day, and one rest day. Week one, my plan was as follows:
Sunday: Easy run
Monday: Cross train at the gym
Tuesday: Pilates
Wednesday: Cross train at the gym
Thursday: Pilates
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Group long run
I followed my week one schedule pretty close. The only modification was that I swapped out Wednesday's cross training day with a third Pilates class (optional makeup class for the ones we missed because of the weather). Pilates three days in a row was hard! I felt great Tue and Wed, but come Thursday my body was saying, 'this again?!?' As my teacher says "bring the mind in" and "do the breath". But on the third day I found it more difficult to focus and remain in the moment which is important in Pilates.
Other than that, I stuck to the schedule and come Friday was ready for my day off!
The training schedule as laid out by TNT consists of 2 strength training days, 2 cross training days, 1 easy run day, 1 long run day, and one rest day. Week one, my plan was as follows:
Sunday: Easy run
Monday: Cross train at the gym
Tuesday: Pilates
Wednesday: Cross train at the gym
Thursday: Pilates
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Group long run
I followed my week one schedule pretty close. The only modification was that I swapped out Wednesday's cross training day with a third Pilates class (optional makeup class for the ones we missed because of the weather). Pilates three days in a row was hard! I felt great Tue and Wed, but come Thursday my body was saying, 'this again?!?' As my teacher says "bring the mind in" and "do the breath". But on the third day I found it more difficult to focus and remain in the moment which is important in Pilates.
Other than that, I stuck to the schedule and come Friday was ready for my day off!
Team in Training Summer 2011 Kick off Event - Boston University
It was a bleak Saturday morning, Boston has just been dumped on with snow again for the third time, but that didn't deter my excitement as I walked to the kick off meeting. I would meet my coach (sometimes I think I'm on MTV's MADE), mentors, and teammates (aka the people I'm banking on to get me through this!). I signed in and was pleasantly surprised when they handed me a T shirt given out to those running the San Diego Marathon. I love free T-shirts! Things were off to a good start.
Vendors lined the perimeter of the gym, with chairs set up in the middle. I took a seat and soon started chatting with two other first time marathoners who were on the Boston team as well. I was immediately put at ease and I didn't feel like I was the only newbie to marathon running. We looked over the training schedule, talked about our current workout routines, discussed sneaker preferences... you know, the usual. The event began with a presentation on LLS, and the impact our decision to sign up will make on patient care and research.
Then, two cancer survivors told their stories. It was the first time I had heard the concept of "two birthdays". The first is their actual birthday, and the second is the date of their successful bone marrow transplant, when they began their second chance at life. Both women were in their early to mid 30s, both mothers and wives, and both blindsided by their diagnosis. Seemingly "healthy" individuals, they were transported from their everyday lives to the world of cancer treatment in a matter of hours. They learned that what they had thought was a severe sinus infection or flu was actually much worse. Both now are cancer free - which is truly a miracle. This made it all very real, and very inspiring at the same time!
I left with my training schedule in hand. This was it - time to get moving!
Vendors lined the perimeter of the gym, with chairs set up in the middle. I took a seat and soon started chatting with two other first time marathoners who were on the Boston team as well. I was immediately put at ease and I didn't feel like I was the only newbie to marathon running. We looked over the training schedule, talked about our current workout routines, discussed sneaker preferences... you know, the usual. The event began with a presentation on LLS, and the impact our decision to sign up will make on patient care and research.
Then, two cancer survivors told their stories. It was the first time I had heard the concept of "two birthdays". The first is their actual birthday, and the second is the date of their successful bone marrow transplant, when they began their second chance at life. Both women were in their early to mid 30s, both mothers and wives, and both blindsided by their diagnosis. Seemingly "healthy" individuals, they were transported from their everyday lives to the world of cancer treatment in a matter of hours. They learned that what they had thought was a severe sinus infection or flu was actually much worse. Both now are cancer free - which is truly a miracle. This made it all very real, and very inspiring at the same time!
I left with my training schedule in hand. This was it - time to get moving!
Let the Fundraising Begin!
That following Monday, after excitedly telling my family and friends all about my new challenge, I was emailed my fundraising page and went right to work. I personalized my page and began sending it out via email to everyone I knew. Listen up everyone, I've decided to run a marathon! I might be crazy, but I need your support! Donate on my fundraising page today! OK, so I was a tad less blunt but I wasted no time getting the word out and asking people to support me and the worthy cause I was running for - the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS).
Many people in my "network" were already familiar with this cause. Sadly, my sorority sister passed away from Leukemia at the age of 23. All of us college friends followed her battle, as chronicled by her family on a amazing website which is now the site for a foundation whose efforts support patients like her. I feel proud that I am able to contribute to these efforts through my fundraising as well.
Many people in my "network" were already familiar with this cause. Sadly, my sorority sister passed away from Leukemia at the age of 23. All of us college friends followed her battle, as chronicled by her family on a amazing website which is now the site for a foundation whose efforts support patients like her. I feel proud that I am able to contribute to these efforts through my fundraising as well.
One thing I quickly learned once I started identifying my network of people to reach out to, is that I have a big network! My extended family alone on both sides (and significant others - have to include them in the fundraising efforts!) accounted for around 60 people! What a lucky girl I am! Others in my network included friends near and far, some I hadn't even been in contact with for a while. I figured better to include everyone, even those I haven't connected with in some time, because I'd be happy to support someone who reached out and hoped they felt the same!
Other groups I included in my outreach were co-workers, alumni groups, current members of my sorority, facebook friends, and my parents' and sister's co-workers and friends. I also reached out to my gym to see if they support members for events like this, and the CEO committed $50.00! Donations can come from just about anywhere, you just have to ask.
Other groups I included in my outreach were co-workers, alumni groups, current members of my sorority, facebook friends, and my parents' and sister's co-workers and friends. I also reached out to my gym to see if they support members for events like this, and the CEO committed $50.00! Donations can come from just about anywhere, you just have to ask.
At The Start
What made me sign on for my first marathon? Well, it was for a couple of reasons. One, I've enjoyed running for several years. I am not a new runner, but definitely not marathon endurance level. I've run a 15K road race in my hometown for 7 years through college and after, and this was really my first taste of distance running. It was without a doubt a slow progression to that level. I still remember finishing my first 5K race sophomore year of high school when I was really new to running, thinking, 'No way could I ever triple that!'
What is that saying, practice makes perfect? Well I hadn't exactly reached perfect yet. But I did stick with it recreationally, until that fateful summer between my freshman and sophomore years of college when my good friend Kassie turned to me as we finished up a leisurely jog around the neighborhood and said, 'Let's train for the 15K!' Me, taken slightly aback thought, 'This is really nice idea Kassie and I appreciate the thought, but really? Run 9 miles? I was planning on a nice relaxing summer...'
Believe it or not, we did it. We trained that summer and ran together all 9.3 miles to the finish which I had only ever watched on TV, wondering how it was possible. We completed our goal - what a great feeling! I still attribute my emergence into running to Kassie and that crazy idea of hers. Granted that first year I couldn't walk for the rest of the day following the race, and was laid up in bed feeling pretty bad (probably from dehydration), but it was a great feeling nonetheless. It's funny thinking back on my early days of running. How far I've come!
Another reason for signing up for a marathon was I was looking for the next big challenge. Something to commit myself to and nurture overtime to meet an ultimate goal. Having finished the Boston half marathon this past October in just under 2 hours, I entertained the thought of someday training for a marathon. But soon after convinced myself otherwise. But a part of me always thought, 'Come on! How great would it be to finish a marathon? It might be do-able, just double the training you did for the half!'
It was the first time I actually wrapped my head around the idea of completing 26.2 miles. I knew what I did for the half, and assumed if I doubled it - doubled the length of training, mileage, and commitment - it might be possible. It was a revelation of sorts, to think what you once perceived as impossible ('I have no idea how people could do that'), to understanding a path by which it may be achievable. Still on the fence and not 100% committed to the idea, I put it to rest for a while. Then on January 22nd, things changed.
My final reason for signing up for a marathon and ultimately the deciding factor, was learning about the Leukemia and Lymphoma's Team in Training program. I had heard about it before, but wasn't really sure what it was all about. I went on their website to learn more and was really taken aback at the program, and how it helps you meet a lifetime goal while raising funds for patients battling life threatening diseases. At that point I was moved, but not yet ready to sign on for a marathon (I'm a thinker, and not easily moved to action by my emotions!).
I then started seeing ads on the T and decided to attend an informational session in January 2011. After hearing in person about the program and speaking with alumni, I had made up my mind. I had actually signed up for a marathon - the San Diego Marathon on June 5th - and was responsible for raising a lot of money along the way - WOW!
This was one of the moments in my life where my gut was shouting at me, "Do it!" and I recognized and acted on it. My mind was frantically running through the logistics, 'Would I have enough time, am I ready to take on this commitment, what will I have to sacrifice to make this happen, am I ready to put my body through this?' I surprised myself that day, not expecting to actually commit before thinking it over a little more. All I can say is, I went with my gut!
What is that saying, practice makes perfect? Well I hadn't exactly reached perfect yet. But I did stick with it recreationally, until that fateful summer between my freshman and sophomore years of college when my good friend Kassie turned to me as we finished up a leisurely jog around the neighborhood and said, 'Let's train for the 15K!' Me, taken slightly aback thought, 'This is really nice idea Kassie and I appreciate the thought, but really? Run 9 miles? I was planning on a nice relaxing summer...'
Believe it or not, we did it. We trained that summer and ran together all 9.3 miles to the finish which I had only ever watched on TV, wondering how it was possible. We completed our goal - what a great feeling! I still attribute my emergence into running to Kassie and that crazy idea of hers. Granted that first year I couldn't walk for the rest of the day following the race, and was laid up in bed feeling pretty bad (probably from dehydration), but it was a great feeling nonetheless. It's funny thinking back on my early days of running. How far I've come!
Another reason for signing up for a marathon was I was looking for the next big challenge. Something to commit myself to and nurture overtime to meet an ultimate goal. Having finished the Boston half marathon this past October in just under 2 hours, I entertained the thought of someday training for a marathon. But soon after convinced myself otherwise. But a part of me always thought, 'Come on! How great would it be to finish a marathon? It might be do-able, just double the training you did for the half!'
It was the first time I actually wrapped my head around the idea of completing 26.2 miles. I knew what I did for the half, and assumed if I doubled it - doubled the length of training, mileage, and commitment - it might be possible. It was a revelation of sorts, to think what you once perceived as impossible ('I have no idea how people could do that'), to understanding a path by which it may be achievable. Still on the fence and not 100% committed to the idea, I put it to rest for a while. Then on January 22nd, things changed.
My final reason for signing up for a marathon and ultimately the deciding factor, was learning about the Leukemia and Lymphoma's Team in Training program. I had heard about it before, but wasn't really sure what it was all about. I went on their website to learn more and was really taken aback at the program, and how it helps you meet a lifetime goal while raising funds for patients battling life threatening diseases. At that point I was moved, but not yet ready to sign on for a marathon (I'm a thinker, and not easily moved to action by my emotions!).
I then started seeing ads on the T and decided to attend an informational session in January 2011. After hearing in person about the program and speaking with alumni, I had made up my mind. I had actually signed up for a marathon - the San Diego Marathon on June 5th - and was responsible for raising a lot of money along the way - WOW!
This was one of the moments in my life where my gut was shouting at me, "Do it!" and I recognized and acted on it. My mind was frantically running through the logistics, 'Would I have enough time, am I ready to take on this commitment, what will I have to sacrifice to make this happen, am I ready to put my body through this?' I surprised myself that day, not expecting to actually commit before thinking it over a little more. All I can say is, I went with my gut!
Sarah's Mile
Hello and welcome to my blog!
My name is Sarah and I live in Boston, MA. I'm a transplant to the city and originate from New York. I'm training for my first marathon and have created this blog as a way to keep a record of my training and preparation over the next four months. I want to track my progress and log what works for me and what does not, so that my running life is long and prospers!
'The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start.' ~John Bingham
My name is Sarah and I live in Boston, MA. I'm a transplant to the city and originate from New York. I'm training for my first marathon and have created this blog as a way to keep a record of my training and preparation over the next four months. I want to track my progress and log what works for me and what does not, so that my running life is long and prospers!
'The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start.' ~John Bingham
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