She Strengthens

From Finish Line to Fresh Start

As I stood at the finish line of the 2011 ING New York City Marathon, clutching my hard-earned medal and wrapped in a heat sheet, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. My personal record of 4:29:55 was a testament to months of dedication and perseverance. But as the euphoria began to wear off, a familiar question crept into my mind: what’s next?

The Post-Marathon Slump

Let’s face it – after pushing my body to its limits, I deserved a break. And break I did. I drastically reduced my running routine, both in terms of mileage and intensity. The “post-marathon blues” were real, and I was guilty of indulging in extended couch sessions and hitting the snooze button a few too many times. But as the days turned into weeks, I began to feel restless. I missed the rush of endorphins, the sense of accomplishment, and the camaraderie with fellow runners.

Getting Back on Track

It’s time to shake off the complacency and get back to what I love. To ensure I don’t lose the progress I made during my marathon training, I’ve decided to take on a new challenge: the Runner’s World Holiday Running Streak. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, I’ll be committing to run at least one mile every day. It’s a daunting task, but one that will keep me motivated and accountable.

Sharing the Journey

During my marathon training, I shared my experiences – the highs and lows – with readers on The Huffington Post. It was incredible to connect with fellow runners and inspire others to lace up their shoes. This time around, I’ll be sharing my updates here every Wednesday, detailing my workouts, struggles, and triumphs throughout the holiday season. From a Turkey Day “turkey trot” to a potentially hungover New Year’s Day run, I invite you to join me on this journey.

Join the Challenge

If you’re looking for a fitness boost or a way to offset those extra holiday treats, consider joining me for this Holiday Running Challenge. Make your pledge to run at least one mile every day for 38 days, and share your commitment in the comments below. Who’s with me?!