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Guys, I did it!

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I lost myhalf-marathon virginitythis weekend!

As you know, I’ve been training for my first half-marathon over the past 12 weeks.

No pain, no gain, right?

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It’s all in your head.

(So pick the right mantra!)

When I started the race, I was ecstatic.

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(Thoughts included: “This is incredible, I feel great!”

and “Why don’t I do marathons all the time?")

But let me assure you, by mile 8 or 9, those thoughts were long gone.

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“Stay positive” is tried and true advice for a reason!

Realize what you’re doing is freakin' awesome.

I trained and workedreallyhard so that I could complete this race.

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But it’s a big number!

And it’s a big deal to work toward something and then finally accomplish it.

I own that now.

Joan Benoit Samuelson gives one hell of a pep talk.

(So, yeah.

Pep talks totally get you stoked.

Stretching can totally store your life.

I’ve heard stretching pre- and post-race can almost make or break your run.

My knees continued to hurt, but I did feel some relief.

you might’t plan for everything.

For me it was a couple of things.

For starters I woke up late.

Answer: It will.)

I was rushed to get ready, gather everything I needed, get downstairs to eat something, etc.

But from these mishaps I realized no matter how much I planned ahead, an unexpected slip-up was inevitable.

Having a goal that you’re proud of helps.

People will ask you what you your goal is.

I learned that having a thoughtful response can really influence your attitude throughout the race.

– it’s helpful to keep that motivation on the brain to keep you moving.

Well, that’s it from me!

Token cliche moment: It has been a challenging, humbling and adventuresome experience.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from a race?

Tweet us@SELFmagazineand@Paige_DePaoliswith your tips!

Courtesy of Rachel Scharmann; 2.

Courtesy of the Subject; 3.

Courtesy of Nike; 4.

Courtesy of Nike; 5.