Group Run 10!

I can't believe we are already at week 10. In fact, we only have one more group run together before the BIG RACE! This is the time in training that you can easily see the FINISH-you know at this point that running or walking 13.1 miles is achievable. These last 2 weeks of training leading up to the race is really about MENTAL PREPARATION! You've logged the miles, you paid for the race, now it is time to wrap your head about completing the distance. I have absolute faith that we can all finish this race-hopefully throughout training we have learned what our stomachs can tolerate, how to push through the bad runs, working through lack of motivation and tiredness and, most importantly, the idea that anything can be accomplished through hard work and dedication. Whether or not we continue training after this (I hope we all do), I hope we can take away the importance of goal setting and comittment-we can use that througout our lives when we are faced with challenges and/or obstacles. Let's get ready to show Greenville what Fitness Unlimited Members can do!

Group Run 9

Once again we met at 6am on a Saturday morning to run or walk 8 or 10 miles. I think the majority of everyone is starting to feel more comfortable with the mileage. We only have 2 more training group runs left before the actual race. I don't know if everyone would agree but I will really miss these group early morning runs. I have personally felt so accountable to the group that I have felt more motivated to get up in the morning and perform at my best. Getting up early on a Saturday morning would not be so easy if I wasn't meeting a group of my peers! I hope everyone feels as commited to this group as I do. Early Registration for the race ends tomorrow-so REGISTER!

Group Run 8

Well, we are now running at 6am so we start off in the dark! Last Saturday was the most mileage we have accomplished since beginning our training. We were able to run/walk either 8 or 10 miles. We will do the same mileage again this Saturday.

This is the point in training where it takes more effort to accomplish the training mileage. A lot of us are tired from the grueling pressures of family and work and it seems to take a lot more energy to do even 3 miles! We are in week 9 of training and the end is just around the corner. I think we all need to find what motivates us so we can continue training. Just imagine the feeling of getting to that start line and, more importanly, crossing the finish line on October 11th!! You will feel such a sense of accomplishment and empowerment when you are able to look back at these last 12 weeks and realize just exactly everything you have done! So, pat yourselves on the back for making it this far and keep on trucking...YOU ARE ALMOST THERE!!

"YOU CAN CHOOSE TO THROW IN THE TOWEL, OR USE THAT TOWEL TO WIPE YOUR SWEAT"

Labor Day Weekend

I must admit, I expected a very light turnout this morning with the OPENING Day of ECU Football and it being Labor Day weekend. However, I am proud to report that over 20 people ran this morning. We had another perfect weather day, high 60s with a little breeze. Today we did 7 or 9 miles, so over 1/2 the distance to the half marathon mileage. Of course, with a few directional issues, we all seemed to find our own path to completing our mileage. Hopefully getting 'lost' is a distraction from the mileage being accomplished. Running and laughter should go hand-n-hand! As we all know, this sport is mainly a mental sport-dedication and perseverance is the key to accomplishing our goal. Only 5 more weeks to go!!