Melrose Boot Camp

Archive for the ‘Inspiration’ Category

On April 16, 2012 I will be running the Boston Marathon as part of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Marathon Team.  Since December I have been physically and mentally preparing myself for my 12^th Boston Marathon.   I will be running for those who have lost their lives to cancer, have won their fights, and for those who continue their battles.  My Uncle Frank is on my mind and I know his spirit will be with me on race day as it has been with me during my training.

This weekend I will complete my longest training run so far this year of 16 miles.  Running such a distance provides plenty of time for reflection.  I think a lot about how grateful I am that I can physically take on such a challenge.   I think about how far I have come personally and professionally since my first one in 2001.  The marathon has given me the confidence to do more in life that I ever thought I could.  There is little more powerful in life than succeeding at something that at one time you thought you could not do.  When life gets tough I still think if I can do that, I can do anything! Running Boston and more specifically, running for Dana-Farber, has taught me the importance of paying blessings forward, generosity of spirit and has brought out the strong woman in me.  These last 12 years of running have provided me with a way to honor loved ones and to contribute to innovative cancer research.  I am very grateful for the opportunity.

We now have just 50 days until the Boston Marathon 2012!  So if you see someone out running here in Melrose, chances are good that person is doing more than running.  He or she may very well be training and could very well be training for a charity close to your heart. Give them a knowing smile and wish them well.  Such exchanges are more appreciated than you know. A dollar they raise may be a dollar that helps you or someone you love.

Best wishes runners, See you out there.

Marathon Thoughts for the First Time Marathoner

*Every day is a new day

*There will be a day that you have your partner’s support, kids are occupied, the weather is perfect, you slept well, are hydrated and have been 100% mindful of nutrition..you are dressed properly, made a new play list……and you will head out and… it will (pardon me) suck……  you just can’t do it that day and you will remember that this was what Joy was talking about…you expected it at some point and remembering that, will make you feel better…see # 1 above.

*Get together with your teammates for running and socializing as often as you can…for  motivation, inspiration, and  fun! Always make time for FUN!  ..and remember we are not Kenyans..We are not going to win..;)

*Run on the actual marathon course if possible…especially the last nine miles over the hills and down to Boston..(and while you are in Boston- do go out for a beer and french fries!)

*Do your best not to miss a long run even if you juggle your schedule to fit it in on Monday instead of Saturday…Even if you have a busy week and don’t get your shorter runs in…the long run is the most important run of the week.  It is your marathon dress rehearsal and strengthens you mentally as well as physically.

*Remember that Life Happens ..Never stick so fast to a training schedule that you don’t allow for flexibility/modifications…this only results in resentment and frustration…Always listen to what your body is telling you. The goal is to get to that start line feeling GREAT! do whatever it takes to get there..This may mean easing up on your training, if you are experiencing pain or discomfort–see a doctor or specialist..Maybe you need to get off the roads and into a gym or treat yourself to a massage or… visit  a hot tub!!

* Tell everyone you know that you are going to run the marathon..It will make you stronger and more determined and you will have more positive energy surrounding your training.  Be proud!

*Thank your support team as much as possible- your support team consists of ANYONE who encourages you, cooks for you, donates $, runs with you, cares for your children or takes on any additional responsibility, so you can train. GRATITUDE brings more blessings your way.  It is important to let these important people know that they are appreciated.

*This is no time to politely refuse offers to help you.  Your body and mind are under much stress…People want to help you and be a part of your experience..so let them.

*Never have your reason for running far from your mind and heart…If you are fund-raising, remember that you are making a difference in people’s lives!.  Do not underestimate the effect you are having. It is a powerful motivator. For every story you hear of your fund-raising dollars being put into action- there may be hundreds of untold stories of how it has affected peoples lives. You ARE making a difference.

*Meet local business people and ask for their support..They want to help! local fundraisers where a business donates a percentage of sales made within a designated time frame is a great win win arrangement.  You do all the advertising, flyers etc..you  follow up the event with a picture  and brief write up about the event for the local paper.  It is great business sense for them to help you in this way…  Letter campaigns, raffles… think about your area of expertise and how you can use it to raise money..be creative!

*Marathon Day is the celebration day of all of your hard work!..It is your final.. “long run”

*The marathon may be one of the biggest “Ah ha” moments you will ever have…about so many things at once. ..

*Believe it or not after the marathon you will at some point become sad or down.  This has happened to me every time.  Be prepared for this, be patient with yourself and have a new goal ready. Treat yourself with compassion and patience.

*And finally… I do know you can do this….and you know,…..that you agree.  Bring on Boston 2012!!

This morning’s 5k in Melrose…Enjoy!