Dan Zielske, crossing the finish line of the Med-City Marathon, May 2003.
I remember when Dan announced one wintry day back in 2002 that he was going to run a marathon. I remember thinking, "Oh, okay. That's nice honey." It didn't exactly shock me. Dan had been a runner since we met and well before that. Two or three times a week for years, he'd lace up and head out for a few laps around the lake by our house, returning shirtless (in the spring and summer months) and drenched in sweat.
He ran for a number of reasons, but primarily it was therapy. You know, clear out the head and just sweat for sanity's sake. Weird. I know.
He never outfitted himself in trendy running gear, emblazoned with logos and inspirational sayings. Sure, he'd lay out some cash for a good pair of running shoes, but that was it as far as high tech running acoutrements went.
Enter the Med City Marathon. On a gorgeous day in May down in Rochester, Minn., he ran his perfect race. He never really changed his pace from the outset. He never hit a wall. Like Forrest Gump, he just ran.
Of course, I didn't know this at the time, because I never really asked for details. Yes, I was very proud of my husband for his accomplishment, but I just took it in stride. Of course he can run a marathon. He can do anything.
Fast forward to now, and here I am, the 44-year-old version of me who, for the first time in her life, is running.
Yep. Lacing up shoes. Heading out the front door. Huffing, puffing, and plodding along at my 11:30 per mile pace, and all of sudden it hits me: Dan ran a freaking marathon. Oh. My. God. By the time I hit mile 2 on any given run, I'm wondering who will identify my body when I collapse.
A marathon. 26.2 miles. By himself. Outside. In the sun. Using his legs.
And not only that, he ran it in 3:33, just 18 minutes over the time needed to qualify to enter the Boston Marathon. He averaged just over 8-minute miles the whole lovin' way.
Amazing.
I just finished reading an excellent book, Run Like a Mother, (because when I'm into something new, I have to dive in headlong) that I would strongly recommend to any runners or any wanna-be runners out there. The two authors and friends write candidly about running, all aspects of it, from aches and pains to peeing in the bushes on long runs. These women are serious runners who love the sport. Both have numerous marathons under their belts. I'm not dreaming of 26.2 miles just yet. My present goal is simply to hit the 5-mile mark. But this book really sparked an interest to learn more about Dan's experience in the marathon, and as a runner in general.
I remember when he'd head out for some of his longer training runs that spring. He trained with his brother, Jonathan (who also ran a very respectable 3:42) and they'd log 12-milers, 15-milers, leading up to a final 20-miler a few weeks before the actual race.
I never remember him complaining once. Not about aches, or pains, or doubts in his ability to do this.
Now me? When I return from a run, I rattle off a laundry list of what doesn't feel right.
When I mentioned this to him, that I never remember him complaining or being injured, he replied, "Talking about pain is boring."
Revisiting this part of our lives, and uncovering some of the details has been a pretty cool thing. It's highly unlikely that I will run an 8-minute mile in my lifetime and really, a 5K seems like the biggest challenge I'll be able to tackle (okay, maybe a 10K someday), but it really does make me retroactively appreciate Dan and see his efforts in a whole new light.
Not hard to appreciate in hindsight. At all.
For those of you who are interested in learning more about the book mentioned above, check out the Run Like a Mother blog.
Kyla says
I just ran my first 5k (in the pouring rain) with my 6 year old, in April. (I needed her for moral support, and to run ahead and snag the paramedics if needed.) We didn’t set any speed records by any means, but it was the greatest feeling . . . crossing that finish line! I can’t wait to hear about your first 5k! I KNOW you can do it!
Jan Hicks says
I ran my first half marathon at age 45 last Nov. Before that, I had only run two 5Ks. The first year, I was unable to run the whole 5K. The next year, I ran the whole way and came in 3rd for my age group. Then we ran the 1/2 mary later that year. It was never a goal of mine to run a 1/2 marathon. I never even liked to run. We had started running after we started working out and getting fit. My husband came home one day and said, “Let’s give it a shot.” So we did. It really was the most amazing experience. I cried coming over the finish line, totally amazed and what I had accomplished. The body is an amazing thing. If you treat it right, it responds and you end up doing more than you ever thought possible. Keep us posted on your training, Cathy. You may not think so now, but I see longer races in your future. (BTW, I have no desire to run a full marathon. Running for 4.5 – 5 hours just doesn’t appeal at all! :D)
Jools says
I can really relate to this post. I’m a soon to be 43 year old mother (British – don’t know why I felt the need to add that fact…?) who has just started running. I’m 56lbs overweight and haven’t run since I left school.
However I’m married to a very fit guy who has cycled to work each and every day of our 15 years of marriage. He looks the same today as he did all those years ago.
But finally, FINALLY, I’m ‘getting’ the whole fitness thing. Yes, it’s hard. Yes, I feel like I’m going to die some days BUT those days are getting less and less. I’m currently on Week 8 of the Couch to 5k programme, have lost 10 pounds in the last 3 weeks and I’m feeling good… 😀
My Nike+ is really helping too. I have no plans to ever run a marathon (too much spit and pee everywhere for my liking, LOL) but I am running my first 5k in July.
Keep up the good work Cathy – we’ll be fit and fabulous in our 40s!
Jenni Booth says
I was going to recommend that book to you! I love it!
Another title to check out: “The Non-Runner’s Marathon Book For Women”
Sign up for a 5k! You’ll have something to work toward that way!
RUN HAPPY!
JoLynn says
What a nice tribute. Makes me reflect on things about my husband that just “are.” Things that reflect how great he is, his uniqueness, that I consider everyday stuff. Hmmm. I feel a scrapbook page coming on.
I got the running bug around 2003. As I trained for the Chicago Marathon, after a few 5Ks and one 4.7 mi race, I screwed up my foot and ended up on crutches and in PT. Since then, my “running” has been either nonexistent or a “jog-walk.” I am a back-of-the-packer, coined by the Penguin himself, John Bingham (you gotta read his material if you are immersing in all things running… he’s quite realistic). When/if I get my feet ready to pound the pavement again, I will be quite happy, as it is a mind-clearing experience.
I’ve seen your pace on FB, Cathy. You could easily do a half-marathon, and work your way up to a full one. You are in that zone. However, there’s a lot to be said for 5Ks. They’re quick, fun, and around here, involve beer at the finish line. My kind of race.
Leslie says
I ran my first marathon back in 1999 in ALASKA!! {i live in Missouri} as a part of Team in Training…raised money for the Leukemia Society in memory of my Dad that died of the disease. I was NOT a runner before. I trained for ONE YEAR then ran {like Forest Gump}. Now it took me nearly 6 hours to finish that darn thing…but I did. And it changed my life…
Cathy…this is just so neat reading about your running journey. I haven’t been a runner in 6 years. But you just may change all that as I’m very inspired with your journey!!:)
And I KNOW that one day you’ll run a marathon…just KNOW it! I ran Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth back in 2001:)
Les
Diane Herman says
i have an injured hip atm…2 more weeks and I can run again…reading your blog makes me want to go NOW!!!!!!!
Heidi says
“Talking about pain is boring.” That is going to be my new Motto! 🙂
Lisa Dickinson says
Um, is Dan available for coaching a very whiny-complain-about-every-pain-real-and-imagined that is not his wife?? I’m thinking my running program needs some of that Zielske philosophy 🙂
Jenell says
Congrats to Dan. What a great accomplishment. And I love the “Talking about pain is boring” quote. I’m going to store that in my brain and hope that quote pops out when I start to complain about pain. Good job to both of you. It’s wonderful to see your progress, Cathy, as you go through this new world of fitness – in all aspects – and share on your blog. Thank you!
Sarah says
I admire people who can run marathons. In my younger years, I used to run on the cross country team; now, I would feel lucky if I could make it around the block without stopping! WAY TO GO DAN! Congratulations!
cathy says
Jan, wow. That IS inspiring. Thanks for sharing!
cathy says
Kyla, congrats! Wow. Very cool.
See, that’s part of my fear: weather and the elements. I ran this weekend, in the full sun, and returned home sunburned and hotter than i’ve ever remembered being. In my life. LOL!
: )
cathy says
Amen to that, Jools! Go you!
cathy says
JoLynn, so what happened to your foot? I’m only asking because something wonky is going on with my foot, right on the outside. I’m taking a few days off this week of exercising (at least running and anything pounding.)
: )
cathy says
You did Grandma’s too? I should have mentioned that Dan’s sister ran that, and she may have even ran it twice.
: )
cathy says
Lisa, it’s weird. He’s kind of a freak in that respect.
He had knee surgery in Jan. (torn meniscus stuff) and he still isn’t in running form, yet, he doesn’t complain about it.
Like i said, freak. ; )
Lisa Dickinson says
yep, id agree on the freak part 🙂 half the benefit of running (for me, at least!) is the unadulterated bitchin i get to do afterwards!
Jennifer says
Congrats Dan! That is so awesome. What a great example to live by. “Talking about pain is boring” I plan to use that with my kids. Way to set a goal and achieve it!
Stefani Meyer says
26.2 miles. outside. in the sun. using his legs… bahahahaha! I LOVE it!
I haven’t run a marathon yet… I might some day. I’ll remember this.
I’m also going to remember “talking about pain is boring” ;D
Penny Grimsley says
Cathy – I love the 40’s. Love learning new things and challenging myself. Love that you are so out there in sharing how you are working so honestly with yourself. I love this story about changed perspective. On Dan and on you. Thanks for being encouraging. I think of you as positive. Positively I do. =)
Jett says
There must be something about our 40’s that makes us want to change. I started running Jan ’08, at 44, for the first time in my life. Ran my first 5k in Apr ’08 and was so freaking happy. Thought, I could run 5K’s for the rest of my life. Then I did a 10K, 15K and my first half marathon this past January, 2years after starting this crazy adventure. I swore I would never want to do that again… and well, I’m signing up for another half in Oct, and thinking of a full marathon at the end of the year. It’s just an idea, but the medal is really calling out my name!!!
I never understood runners, my husband included. It just didnt look fun to me. But I guess I get it now. There’s some magic to lacing up the shoes, putting on the tunes and stepping out, into the world, but still being in your own place. It’s like being in two places at once, part of a bigger picture, yet being with just me. It sounds crazy, but that’s what it feels like to me.
Congrats on your accomplishments! Becoming healthy is not an easy feat, and I’d say your kicking some A**!!!
Erica Hettwer says
“Talking about pain is boring.” This NEEDS to be on a t-shirt. NEEDS TO BE!!!
Shannon says
I agree with Jenni, you should definitely pick up a copy of The Nonrunner’s Marathon Guide for Women: Get Off Your Butt and On with Your Training. The author has such a great sarcastic sense of humor so it made it fun to read.
I was never a runner either. I was a dancer – and then I got injured. Suddenly 2 years ago while trying to get into shape I found running – and it’s become therapy for me. For me it helps clear my head (although I definitely complain about my aches and pains along the way). And although I injured myself recently while training for the San Diego half, I now have my sights set on the Walt Disney World Marathon in January (the only marathon I’ve every wanted to do).
Does Dan have any words of wisdom to share about training for the whole enchilada??
Elizabeth Carls says
26.2 is an amazing thing. You have to respect the distance. I’ve done a couple of half-marathons and really love that distance – long enough to feel like you’ve accomplished something really special, but short enough to still be really fun (and pain free).
I also recommend “The Non-runner’s Marathon Guide for Women: Get Off Your Butt and On with Your Training”. Even if you have no intention of ever doing a marathon the book is entertaining and insightful.
Congratulate Dan for me, and congratulate yourself also, you’re a runner.
cathy says
Jett, I definitely get it now. There is a sense of power and accomplishment that I feel from it. Like, oh my God, I can DO this. I can run. And not because I’m a kid and that’s what kids to for fun.
I feel strong when i do it, even if it doesn’t look like it from my speed or my form.
cathy says
Hmmm, not a bad idea.
cathy says
Shannon, that’s the weird thing about Dan. He’s not into wisdom about running. Running is just something he does. And the marathon, you know, he just followed a race prep plan he found online that told him how far and how often to run. He never over thinks things.
cathy says
Adding it to my Amazon cart now.
Beth, how many years have you been running now?
deb says
I know exactly what you mean, Cathy.
I am reading the RLAM book too, after you suggested it last week, and I love it. I’m up to a 25 minute run now, and when I read about these women and their marathons, I am in awe. Of course, a couple of months ago I was in awe of anyone who could run for a half hour. So who knows what’s possible, right? I am going to check out the other book, too.
When I saw that picture of Dan and saw his time I seriously thought, Holy Sh*T, that’s freaking amazing! And to do it all without complaining! I feel the need to constantly tell everyone that I did my run with no walk breaks. Like they should be amazed, lol.
I am considering 5ks now, and I never would have thought it before. A whole marathon is not even in my dreams, but there is this half marathon that they have at Disneyworld…maybe someday. That’s a medal I’d love to have.
Deb says
I run 11:00-12:00 minute miles too! I ran a half marathon last fall, because the trainer said I could. Who knew! Keep running Kathy, it can be the best ever way to let your thoughts run at will! Dan must be an iron man not to complain ever.
Christa Paustenbaugh says
It takes baby steps, but you are so on the right track! If someone would have told me 5 years ago I would run a marathon I would have laughed until I puked, but here I am getting ready to train for one!!
I’ll definitely be heading out to read the book! My running friend got me a Run Like A Mother running headband and I’m totally wearing it during my marathon!
Tina says
Cathy I started out just 9 months ago with my first mile and you’d of thought I ran a marathon myself! I was so happy, so proud…. then I got to doing a couple 5K’s and kept running and working out and was so thrilled with that. Just this past weekend I ran the Rite Aid Cleveland half marathon with my daughter and you couldn’t wipe this smile off my face…. 13.1 miles! 7 years ago I was a smoker who probably couldn’t walk a mile, and now here I am running a half marathon and LOVING IT! I am definitely gonna look into that book too! Oh and my half marathon time was 2:26:25 (which I’m very proud of 🙂
cindy b. says
Every time I hear people run marathons I keep thinking that THAT is the distance I freakin’ drive to work EVERY day…PLUS driving an extra 6 miles and these people are RUNNING it. O.M.G. I’m not sure our legs are meant to do that! LOL!!! KUDOS to Dan!!! Personally, I just don’t get it. Running 26.2 miles is crazy. I can see a 5 or 10K but 26 freakin’ MILES??! My attention span isn’t that long when I run. 😉
cindy b. says
ps. Check out the mail I sent you about Harriet. Now THAT is seriously impressive…makes me feel like a loser about the cardio I do. LOL!!
Becky Goodrich says
I love this post. Have been following your fitness journey and it’s been a fun inspiration for my own get-healthy crusade. Just want to say that I love having a fit hubby, he inspires me daily. He is the hottest 53-yr-old I know! When he scored a try in rugby (like a touchdown) recently, BOTH sides cheered and cheered. And the best part–he loves me fat or fit. But I like fit better. Starting a beginning running class this Saturday! Will check out the book and the Nike + setup. Have you seen the awesome running togs at http://irunlikeagirl.com/?
kristin says
i haven’t really been able to keep my running consistent ever since i had my second kid. i recently had my third and i just wish it wasn’t illegal to leave little ones at home so i could just “go let off some steam” and then come back. three kids three and under makes it a bit tough, but reading your blog lately is making me re-evaluate where my priorities are now that i’ve had kids. instead of running (b/c i like to do it outside, have no treadmill & running in place looks plain weird), i’ve started the art of stress eating (three years ago) and it is taking a toll on my body. i just realized this within the past weekend, so it’s time to talk to the hubster and see if we can’t get our schedule fixed so i can remedy this!
i plan on running a 5k in june- once you do it, i think that you’ll fall in love with that experience.
when you’re ready, i hope you decide to do a race. i would love to read the your thoughts throughout the whole experience.
Elizabeth Carls says
Cathy – I started running 7 years ago, the whole first year was walk/run, mostly walk. Then during the second year I got serious about changing my life and I did my first triathlon. Since then I mostly run, although I did do a second tri 2 summers ago. It really is therapy – there is nothing quite like a run to get your thinking straight and to make you feel awesome. And who doesn’t love being awesome?
cathy says
you know, i can swim. or i could swim. I lettered in swimming in high school. Did competitive from a very early age (i started at 10 with a swim team.)
Im having some pain issues on my right foot, which is pissing me off, but… i dont feel it when i run. Just when i do side to side lateral movement, which might mean taking some time off from Zumba.
Its weird. Ive gone through the whole weight loss up and down thing since quitting smoking back in 06, but ive never felt like i really wanted to exercise. Today, im supposed to be resting but i have this urge to at least get a quick bike ride in.
I figure, better to transfer a bit of that OCD to fitness instead of smoking or overeating. : )
TracyBzz says
Why do Americans say 5k, 10k? Obviously we say that here in Canada because we use the metric system. (actually we are a confused nation that still uses both).
I would love to run a 5k – run the whole thing without stopping. Run, not bouncy walking barely moving kind of running you see some people do.
Congrats to Dan and his brother for completing such a big accomplishment…without complaining.
Becky Goodrich says
Cathy– just read your comments about the pain you are having…might consider getting in to a physical therapist sooner rather than later…sometimes nagging pains are really easy things to fix if you catch them early.
cathy says
Deb, you are doing it, woman. I mean, being up to 25 minutes. I know that feeling. I know how i felt when i first passed that mark.
It makes you pretty amazed at your own capabilities, huh?
cathy says
Go Christa, that is so cool!
You will definitely love the book.
cathy says
Wow. Amazing. See, when i read about ex smokers now doing half marathons, it’s pretty dang inspiring. Seriously.
cathy says
Cindy, that is an amazing story you sent!
cathy says
tracy, i think it’s because it’s the international standard, you know?
cathy says
I know. I should. But having just written a check for some x-rays I had that were not covered (during a physical in december, when i had my knees looked at, just to make sure i was okay to embark on a new program) I’m feeling the pangs of healthcare plans that don’t cover stuff like that.
Ouch.
Kelly says
I too am in the throws of “I can’t believe I can run”! I went running with two friends this weekend, we ran 5 miles! Before we started that morning I didn’t think I could run a mile! It’s amazing how the body can do what the mind thinks is impossible! My mind would have told me to quit, but having the support of friends kept my mind busy, while my body did the work!
healthy eating recipe says
runnning unning..bent all ove the body
denise:) says
Wow! Congrats to Dan- that is amazing and awesome and inspiring!!
I love his quote- “talking about pain is boring”. Quite astute!
KissMyTulle says
I love that you included a photo of Dan’s backside with a sentence about “hindsight”. Hee.
P.S. Secretly, I am a twelve-year-old boy.
P.P.S. Truthfully, I enjoy that you’re blogging about running. I have tried to start running but have a problem with my chestical region. I literally have to wear two sports bras and run with my arms across my chest – that does not make for a fun time so I always quit and resume interval training on my elliptical.
Heidi says
Cathy – I have absolutely loved reading your progression into a fit lifestyle. Both my husband & I are runners and in our 30’s with 2 young children. I like to run half marathons, and he runs fulls. I used to run quite a bit before having children (2 boys: 2 & 5 1/2). I used to run a lot faster before having children. (ha-sigh) I profoundly miss running as much as I like. Reading your adventures and accomplishments so far totally encourage me to keep at it even if it is only 3-4 times a week instead of 6. THANK YOU.
You’re looking awesome!!!!! Keep rocking it!
Heidi
p.s. Not sure where on the outside of your foot your pain is but about 2 inches down from the top of your little toe on the outside of the foot is a common place for stress fractures… not sure what brand/type of shoe you are wearing. But it should definitely be a running shoe vs a cross trainer (in my experience) and needs to be the right “kind” of shoe. Neutral vs pronator vs supinator etc. It really does make all the difference. A few years ago I bought this awesome pair of shoes that I bought when I couldn’t find my “regulars” (I wear Saucony only and am not in any form an advertiser for them or any other brand!!!). Within less than 6 wks of running in the other shoe I had developed a stress fracture in my heel and was receiving cortisone shots. I was trying to figure out what was going on when I remembered changing shoes right around that time. I ditched the shoes and within 2 weeks, I was pain free and back to “normal”. It was crazy. It had nothing to do with the other shoe being bad or anything, it just wasn’t for my foot when running. Simple as that. (I have tons of friends that wear that brand w/o issue and couldn’t step foot in a Saucony.) Just a thought?????? a few days off cross training with something low/no impact is a good idea.
cathy says
You should check out Moving Comfort bras. They work miracles.
cathy says
That IS near the pain is. And i am wearing some Adidas running shoes that so far, i really love.
I’m guessing i’m a pronator too.
I am taking two days off to see what happens next.
deb says
I had a similar type of pain last year, it followed my raging bout of plantar fascitis. I got a pair of orthotics did lots of stretching and icing. Rest is good, but it may help to stretch and ice and give it some anti-inflammatory as well. And I agree about the shoes, that’s how I got the plantar. Switched to some new shoes and within three days, BAM! Pain. Took 6 months to get rid of. Now, if I get even a pinch of pain I stretch those feet and ice them right away. So far, so good.
I am a pronator, the orthotic helps to correct my feet so I don’t put all that pressure on the side.
Feel better!
Tinka says
Participating in a marathon has never even been close to something I’ve thought about doing. Running? No. Not happening. EVER! Doing any kind of “exercise” just to exercise has never been my thing. But doing something like a 5K is fun because I’m raising money for a worthwhile cause. Plus just finishing is a great accomplishment…and I’ve been so far last before that the finish line was being dismantled by the time I got to it! :o) Now, at 54 yrs old, because of the severe arthritis I have in my left ankle (will need a joint replacement in the next couple years), I’m not supposed to run or walk! However, despite my dr.’s orders, I am currently training with a group of friends to walk a 1/2 marathon in November!! Me? In a 1/2 marathon? It’s insane, given that some days just walking from my desk to the fax machine is painful, but I am really determined to do it. The only way I can even attempt this endeavor is by wearing a fracture boot (acquired when I had stress fractures several years ago) during the training walks. It makes a huge difference but there have still been some days when I can’t go the whole distance because of the pain. But I am out there every week with the group, trying. And that, for me, is an accomplishment in, and of, itself!
Jennifer says
Back in ’06 my husband decided to start running with a goal of running a 5k and he found this to help him: Check out coolrunning.com – Couch to 5K 🙂 Literally a guide to getting someone who is not used to running, to well, run. He downloaded pod casts and he really enjoyed it….and finished his first 5K. Good luck – you can do anything you put your mind to!
Susan says
I started running after I dislocated my right shoulder in a fall. I wanted to keep moving, but I couldn’t do aerobics, so I signed up for a “Learn to Run” clinic. My goal was only to run 5K comfortably, but when that happened, I thought that I’d take a 10K clinic. I met a great group of people and became addicted to the social and physical benefits of running. I knew that I never wanted to run a marathon, the thought of 5-6 hours of running did not appeal at all. During the 10K clinic, someone from the half marathon clinic came to speak to us and I thought that it would be cool to run a half for my 50th birthday, and I did! I ran my second half for my 51st birthday!
I agree that talking about pain is boring, but taking care of pain is smart. Get properly fitted for shoes, it makes things so much easier. One last thought, wear ID when running, if you are injured and unable to speak, someone will be able to contact your loved ones and medical personnel will be able to access your medical records!
JoLynn says
Well, it didn’t help that I was carrying some extra weight at the time… I was getting in to the “zone” and starting my longer runs. I was trying to watch my form. In doing so, I fought my foot’s natural (yet slightly spastic) way of running. About 1/2 mile from my house, after ignoring any smaller pain, I felt something pop and thought FOR SURE I had broken my foot. Longest 1/2 mile walk in history, I think. What happened was I had strained the ligaments that go across your foot. Doctor said… too much, too soon, too fast. At that point, I was doing wind sprints (which are murder) and I think I was up to a 7 mile run/walk (which is VERY long for me). So, I had about a month using a crutch and about three months of PT. Long story, but there was suspense in there, right?! It is a good idea to take it easy when foot pain arises. Rest. Ice. Compression. Elevation. (RICE)
Fonda Darter says
Yep, I’d say your hindsight’s pretty good, fer sure, fer sure! 🙂
Men can say so much with so few words!
Sarah Bowen Shea says
Cathy–
Yay for you for catching the running bug! Love that it brings a whole new level of respect and adoration for your husband and his accomplishment. (And how hunky he looked after finishing–hubba-hubby-hubby!)
Thanks for the shout-out about our book. We’d love to get you a copy to give away to your followers if you’d like. Email us at runmother at gmail dot com if you are interested.
Good luck hitting that 5-mile mark. I’m confident you’ll get there. Sure and steady, my friend.
Speed Princess says
Thanks for the inspiration! I decided today that I would run a half marathon in 3.5 months. Yeah totally freaking out already!
RobynS says
Very, very cool. Oh my kids say that I cannot use that word. My niece just announced that she is going to run the NYC marathon and raise money for a wonderful cause. I just cannot imagine. Not at this age and with these knees. I am the one who is walking just to get in shape for our 3 mile walk for our Take Steps Be Heard funraiser. So out of shape. Getting there though.
Brandie says
I honestly can’t run half a mile, so I am in awe of both you and Dan!
Susan K says
So awesome to read that you are running! I ran my first marathon in 2007 and I still can’t believe I ran that far. Today, I’m almost 20 pounds heavier after having Baby #3. I knew I had to do something to get back in shape, so I signed up for a fall marathon. A few months ago, I could barely run 1 mile – now I’m up to 6 mile runs. It is truly amazing what consistent training can do. Keep up the great work Cathy!
Maribel says
I’m was never a runner before last year. I love running now!
If you are interested in running further, check out the Jeff Galloway Running Program. Jeff’s program is what changed me. I ran my 1st Marathon Last year and I’m glad I did it. It’s an accomplishment that I’m really proud of. BTW, Jeff Galloway has running groups all over the country and that’s what really helped my stay motivated. 🙂
stacyj says
I cannot believe you are RUNNING. Wow.
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Wow.
So proud of you.
Wow.
aud neal says
Another cool book — sort of a writing/running memoir — is Murakami’s What I Talk About When I Talk About Running.
cathy says
Hey Sarah, i would LOVE to do a giveaway. I will email you!
cathy says
Good words of advice, Susan. I will have ID with me next time! and go you!
susan says
“Talking about pain is boring.”
Ouch.
I will have to try to remember that whenever I feel compelled–usually several times a day–to draw attention to any boo-boo or plain old feeling of tiredness I may have!
Cynthia Friese-Hassanein says
Ah doing some blog catch up:) Whoa down here we have a marathon?!? didn’t know that:) Love this post. Go Dan. I grew up with a runner Dad. I always wanted to get into the running thing. But, I just ever had the lung capacity, even before I smoked:) If I could I know I would love it. I so proud of you getting out there.
Courtney Walsh says
I have never been a runner, so anytime anyone talks about a marathon my eyes glaze over and I zone out a little bit. But you’re right. 8 minute miles the entire way. Wow. I remember when you first posted these pictures on your blog back then…at least I think I do…they look suspiciously familiar! 🙂
So whatdya think…you gonna shoot for a marathon of your own? 🙂
sue pigott says
ha.amazing people arent they? i was entered in a little Try Tri, but have torn my acl and am out (hm, on purpose or just an accident? ill never tell). my husband and my entire circle of friends are total freaks of fitness nature. i am the only crafty person not interested in it at all.
my cousin had an epiphany a few weekends ago.
he said this…
“I think that all those people ACTUALLY like working out. I think its like a Hobby. kinda how you (me) like to knit and scrapbook”
that is it!!
they think about their next workout, when it will be, how they can make it as long as possible etc.
Just like I obsess about crafting.
Good for you Cathy. I admire you. take a run on a trail. that i do love. its smells better, it sounds better and it also looks better.
congrats on your 2 miles.
sue
anna says
8 more sleeps and i’m running my first 21k race!
2 years ago i started training for the 5k.
i can’t believe i’m actually doing this, but i’m so excited!
i’m also so excited to read about your running, and can’t wait to see where it will take you !!!
Shalini says
It is so fun to hear about your running story… I am not a runner by any standards but I started last year and this Mothers’ day was my first 5K. My goal was to run all the way and I did 🙂
I’ll be following your journey and inspiration…
Nicole says
Another great running read…
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner by Dean Karnazes
after reading this I didn’t look at running the same again 🙂
Jennifer says
It’s great to read about your running, Cathy. (and Dan’s approach to it; it’s so matter-of-fact!) It gives me hope for myself, that my longstanding couch-potato ways can be reversed. I’m training for the 3-Day walk in Phoenix this November (60 miles in 3 days), and I just bought my first pair of “real” running shoes: honest-to-goodness specialized athletic shoes, the right fit for my feet and my gait, and I haven’t been so excited about anything athletic in quite a long time.
DeuceMom says
I read this after reading your post about running with your husband – I think it’s wonderful that you are able to go out and run together and have so much fun you slap a behind every so often!
I ran my first 5K in May, and it was ridiculously hard. I’m very overweight, but I just envisioned myself doing it despite the aches and pains. And I finished while they were still timing – 53:23 – which was my goal (under 60). In some ways it was embarrassing that people pushing strollers finished well before me, and I’m sure I looked a fright all red faced and giggling toward the finish line. But I’m signed up for the next one with the goal to run the whole distance, however slowly. Just getting this body across the finish line was the push I needed to want to do more.
Oh, and did I mention it was 75 degrees? The weather report was supposed to be 55!! In the moment it just didn’t seem so bad. You’ll survive, I swear!