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Guys, I did it!
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?
It’s all in your head.
(So pick the right mantra!)
When I started the race, I was ecstatic.
(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.
“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.
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.