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If you read my last diary blog about my first two, hellish months training for the Chicago Marathon (click here to check it out!), you won’t believe the next seven weeks! My mindset has always been that if you put your mind to accomplish something, you just do it; no excuses. Sometimes it’s not always that easy, I learned.
August 5
Training seems to be on track. I couldn’t find the time to do my sprint-training on Thursday, so I lifted weights instead. My target area: hamstrings and butt, major running muscles.
August 12
Seemed like a great idea to get my run out of the way first thing in the morning; six miles, and it felt pretty good. Next up: a 90-minute boot camp challenge at a fitness event. Hours later my back is killing me. I ice it, and try to stretch. I’ve never had back issues before.
August 13
I can’t get out of bed. Like, literally, I can’t move. I’ve had clients in this position before. Now, here I am. I could scream.
August 15
Two days with pain, but it’s getting better. I hope I can run on Saturday.
August 18
I ran 3 miles! My back isn’t back to normal, but I did make it through.
August 22
I conquered six miles today. I’m supposed to have a 16-miler under my belt by now, but the thought of running that long and that far really scares me.
August 23
Had my annual physical today, and told my doctor about my marathon training and continued exhaustion. I feel like I’m going through early menopause. She did a blood test, EKG, bone density and other routine tests.
August 27
Doctor called me with results of my tests: My bones are healthy and dense; my heart is strong; but the blood test revealed severe anemia, low Vitamin D and B12. I’m now on a special D supplement and taking weekly B12 shots. I learn on Google that anemia is a condition where the body is deficient in healthy red blood cells, whose job is to carry oxygen throughout your body. Symptoms include feelings of weakness, fatigue, poor concentration, and shortness of breath. Yeah, that sounds like me.
September 5
Ran seven miles and feel pretty strong. Chicago half-marathon is Sunday. I think/hope I’m ready.
September 9
The half-marathon did me in! I had two interns, three friends, and my boyfriend running with me for support, and I could hardly make it. I can’t imagine having to do that distance twice. I’m closing the book on my first marathon.
This experience has been a life lesson for me. I had to accept that running didn’t feel good for my body. As much as I wanted to change that, I couldn’t. The good news is that I’m a natural at other things—hiking, climbing, yoga, dance, triathlons—and I’m happy with that. People always ask me, “What’s the best exercise?” I say, “The one that you love doing.” I’m going to follow my own advice!
