One of the first things people learn about me is that I love running. I try not to be a “runnerd” (spewing splits, coaching advice and nutrition tips). I just love to run and am so energized about it that I have had many a friend, or co-worker, give it a try despite “not being a runner.” I have proudly helped many a friend train for and pace a first race (or first distance).
I trained extremely well for the NY Marathon in 2012. I did my three 20 milers, speed work and even paced a friend in the Indianapolis Marathon. I was READY. Due to Hurricane Sandy, the race was cancelled. It seemed like a no-brainer to capitalize on the training and run in the Dallas Marathon on December 9, 2012 instead.
As I was trying to pump myself back up, remember how well I had trained, and how much I enjoyed running that fall, I was reminded of an article I read in Runner’s World years ago. Kristin Armstrong (one of my favorite bloggers) wrote Boston Bound a post about dedicating each mile to someone she loved. She called it a “prayer list” and said the only thing she did not like about the idea was that she “hadn’t thought of it herself.” She said each person inspired her and the miles flew by.
This concept was also first on the list of Self’s 20 Best Fitness Tips – Best Motivation: “Make like Ironman world champion Chrissie Wellington and dedicate each mile you jog (or walk, bike, etc.) to an inspiring person in your life. You’ll never bonk midworkout again. ‘I’ll think of someone who reminds me that I can do more, like my mom, and I’ll push so much harder during that mile. When I get home, I’ll call or text all the people I thought of—and it turns into a productive workout and a lovefest.’” —Marissa Stephenson, SELF fitness editor
I asked my friends, and readers, to nominate people who inspire them to “borrow” for my marathon. I compiled a list of 26.2 people to think of and honor in my run. These are people who have inspired me, or my friends, in 2012. I was not sure how well I would do with this exercise once I started running but I decided to give it a go!
On race day, my friend Leslye and I decided to run together and keep each other in check (we both have a tendency to start fast). Our goal was to aim for 8:00 minute/mile for the first half and we started well on that goal.
I shared my list and stories with Leslye as we ran. I wrote the names on a band and scotch taped it to keep it dry and taped it on- it worked! Not pretty but effective. I enjoyed this exercise – no pun intended! At a few points, I read all of the names again to stay positive. It really helped me to stay focused and motivated.
I finished in 3:36.36 (8:16 pace). I was shooting for 3:30-3:40 so I was pleased with the time. It was my best marathon since Boston in 2007. It capped off a great running comeback year for me.
The Inspiration List is a cool way to stay motivated during a marathon. I recommend giving it a try! (For my full recap with 26.2 inspiring stories, you can read my full post HERE (Reposted with Permission)
Who is one YOUR inspiration list?