NYC Marathon 2009

WHAT IT TAKES
By Adventure Girl

WELCOME 2010! The Year of the "Stick It" Resolution!

NYC Marathon 2009 was my first marathon back after a "hit and run" in 2008, whilst training for a Sprint Triathlon. I was trauma hawked to a nearby hospital with multiple fractures and contusions. I was lucky to be alive, and recovery was "miraculous." My lifestyle saved my life.

My training, unfortunately, was sporadic at best whilst still in "recovery" mode, I also can't train in Florida heat, so with only one (1) 10 mile run two weeks prior, I started and FINISHED the NYC Marathon, with plenty of time to spare before the actual cut off.

I definitely would NOT recommend training this way, especially if you have never competed in any foot races including a 5K, 10K, half marathon or a full one. As for me, endurance is something I have mastered over time and I have never NOT finished an athletic/sporting event despite injuries including tendonitis, meniscus, IT band and a migraine and; I still would NOT recommend anyone enter a foot race under these conditions either.

Completing a 26.2 mile marathon takes training, training, in additon to nutrition, plenty of SLEEP, "de-stressing" and keeping the body hydrated. I don't pay for "bottled water," so I filter my own water and carry a hydration bag. I "salt up when needed and drink plenty of fluids with electrolytes. GU rules the roost in our household, so I am never without it on training days. having already completed 42 marathons and other endurance events, the following tips have prepared me for the finish line.

Training CONSISTENCY
It is vitally important to be "consistent" in your training and to work different muscle groups as to not fatigue them. Keep you training interesting and challenging for your body. building muscle is an optimal way to increase metabolism.

We reserve long runs (10 to 18 miles) for SATURDAY, with alternating run/bike training days. SUNDAY is our rest day. During the TRI-season we will add swim/run with alternating bike days, and change it up between trail runs (hills and climbs), road biking or mountain biking. Training should be consistent and FUN!

Nutrient-Enriched FOODIES
Want to know the secret to an optimal diet plan? Eat foods close to the source. 99% of the time, an average plate should be filled with fruits, veggies, elan protein and complex carbohydrates. You already got the message; have done the homework; watched the shows and even read the blogs. Now, do it. If you are confused, stick close to a Mediterranean diet.

If you are striving to lose weight, your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is just as important as your Body Mass Index (BMI). You can email me for more information.

Read my Blogger's Journal on "Nutrition by the numbers."

Be part of a PACK
I learned long ago, NEVER go it alone. I have always been part of a group, whether in business, running or biking. My "mates" have really sustained me mentally, emotionally and even physically. Even in the animal world, those that stay in a pack survive the longest. Find a running group near you, or fill out our "spam-free" form and we can help you find a local group.

"COACHING for SUCCESS"
Having a coach is "priceless." Each USA Track and Field (USATF) sanctioned marathon course offers online coaching and training. A well crafted coaching program will help you design your training runs, nutrition and tips to help you run longer, faster, stronger without over-fatiguing your muscles. you can contact us for assistance in finding a qualified coach and training program in your area.

SLEEP well...feel STRONG
Do you feel sluggish? Well, your brain might be telling you something. Perhaps you did not get enough sleep. A good delta sleep and REM, where you actually dream is what your body requires. 7-8 hours is recommended. I love to sleep so bring it on! Need a "cat nap." Go for it. It is a sure way to restart your "gray matter."

De-Stress...for OPTIMAL living
"Good stress" is where you are pumped up and ready to get going, i.e. the start of a marathon. "Bad stress" is one that prevents you from getting going, starting or finishing. Let go; breathe it out or; meditate. You have to "let go" to keep moving forward towards your goal, as YOU are the only one who can make it happen. Everything else is just noise. Close it off and shut it down.

Hydration is KEY to health
What color is your flow? If you said "clear," you are hydrated. "Murky," well, maybe not so hydrated. Everyone's body is different, so I don't prescribe to the MYTH of 8 glasses of water a day. I drink when I am thirsty and more when the weather is hot and/or when I am training, especially due to the loss of fluids when you sweat, even in the cold!

Marathon PACING TEAM
Bravo to ALL the women and men who lead their fellow runners to the FINISH LINE! If you are a first time marathoner, ensure yourself a "ready-made buddy system" by falling behind one of the Pace Teams. These Pace teams are designed to help you cross the finish line in your specific time category. For instance, if your goal is to finish in 4 hours, there is a pace team for that. 5 hours? Yes. 3:30? YES!

IMPORTANT FYI, please check with your specific marathon to see what they offer. SunTrust in Washington D.C. has a 5 hour cut off and NYC marathon starts their Pace team at 3:30, not good for someone who is trying to qualify for Boston at 3:20.

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A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE:
Anyone who knows me well knows I don't get impressed by much, BUT when I met Linda Quirk recently at the NYC marathon expo, I WAS impressed. You see this remarkable woman was on a mission...a mission to change lives. You can read all about it by clicking the link to follow, but before you do, remember that if she can do it...so CAN YOU! I don't mean running marathons in ALL 7 continents of the world in one year (and bravo to you too if that is your goal)! We are all on some personal quest and each and everyone one of us can finish what we start. The Finisher.

October - Chicago Marathon

The story of the marathon
Teens in Training