A Crazy Idea is proud to announce the addition of a third runner to our 26 November event.
Gerry Martinez is a 25-year-old student from San Antonio, Texas, and like me, is coached by Lisa Smith-Batchen. His story is that of the material normally found in Hollywood movies.
Gerry will feature in an article found in the Friday edition of the Compass and I ask that you all take a moment tomorrow to read it.
For the past three weeks, I’ve spent Wednesday evening participating in the Stroke & Stride. Now that the event is behind us, I would like to invite runners and walkers of all abilities to join us at the Wednesday Night Running Club.
Founders Tony and Justine started the club in 2008 with an aim to encourage beginners to get active and persuade inexperienced runners to get off the treadmill.
The Wednesday Night Running Club meet every Wednesday at 6pm outside World Gym. There are no membership fees and it’s a great opportunity to get fit, socialise with others and learn valuable training tips from the more experienced athletes. We look forward to seeing you there.
Perception
I could write plenty on this topic and I’ll likely revisit it again in the near future but there are a couple of specific items I would like to discuss this week.
The first part of the column is directed to the numerous walkers who live here in Cayman. While out and about Cayman touting the benefits that come from dwelling outside your comfort zone and getting active, I have encountered a number of people who don’t run.
After speaking for a few minutes on the details of my upcoming 100 mile run, our conversation usually moves onto the Intertrust Cayman marathon in this manner:
Me: So are you going to do this year’s Cayman Marathon?
Walker: I can’t run.
Me: Okay, so you’ll walk the half marathon then?
Walker: Can I do that?
Me: With the proper training you can.
Walker: But I’m not running.
Me: You don’t have to. Nowhere on the registration does it say “This event is for runners only.”
The online registration process does not require the entrant to agree to run a single step of the event. You’ll see for yourself when you register.
One of the most pleasurable aspects of the fitness journey, for me anyway, is basking in the sense of accomplishment that comes from focusing on what I can do. There are numerous health benefits from getting out and walking on a regular basis and don’t worry if you’re not able to walk 13.1 miles today. Follow our programme for the next 13 weeks and you’ll do great on 4 December.
The second part is directed towards both runners and walkers. Over the past weekend, I convinced a part-time jogger to sign up for this year’s half marathon.
Early in the conversation he stated “I don’t enjoy running. It’s hard, tiring and after a few minutes I don’t mentally want to be doing it.” Fair comments. Exercising can be hard and tiring. It can also be invigorating and empowering.
It all comes down to how you perceive your actions. When times get tough and the “beast” rears its ugly head, I make a conscious effort to keep my inner dialogue, or the voice in my head, focused on the positives emanating from my actions.
It’s not uncommon for me to think of how proud I am of myself for going that extra half mile or how awesome I am for running past a bush that was only a mere 50 metres down the road. My self praise may very well be the reason I feel so good after most of my runs. Who doesn’t like to hear good things about themselves – even if it comes from yourself? I’m certain you’ll feel good about it too if you remain focused on the positives that you’ll notice from an active lifestyle.
Finally, I’ll finish with a little food for thought. You will only ever complete your first half marathon once. It is an experience that you will remember always and one I guarantee you will share with family, friends and acquaintances throughout your years.
Don’t believe me? Ask anyone who has done it. They’ll probably overwhelm you with all the details.
So when are you going to make your memory? This year’s Intertrust Cayman Marathon is the perfect time to do it. Forego your inhibitions and just do it.
Make arrangements to complete it with your family or friends and have fun with it. Then use that level of fitness as a benchmark for the remainder of your days. Imagine the health benefits of spending a few hours a week maintaining a fitness level where you could comfortably complete a half marathon (walk or run). Let this year be the year that starts it all off. What are you waiting for?
Everyone following our programme should consult a physician before starting the fitness routine. Your health is of the utmost importance and not to be neglected. Even though moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, is safe for most people, health experts suggest that you talk to your doctor before you start any exercise programme.
Until next time, don’t stop running!
James Murray, who is training to run 100 miles around Grand Cayman as part of his “A Crazy Idea” campaign, provides weekly training tips for those who want to complete their first half marathon (13.1 miles).
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