She also teaches a variety of class formats designed to help with marathon training.
“I started running when we moved to the States when I was six.
The coach was kind enough to train us and let us burn off some extra energy.
Photo: Getty Images / Peloton
It helped keep me free of injuries and helped both strengthen and release my muscles.
I also felt that my mental health improved significantly as well.”
What inspired you to trigger the 2021 TCS New York City Marathon?
Mariana Fernandez.
How are you feeling as race day is around the corner?
“I ran the NYC Marathon in 2017 and ran it alongside Mamichi.
She knew I had been through a really challenging year and we set it as our goal.
Sara Haile
For me, there was no better way to celebrate that than doing the marathon again.
I also dedicate each mile to someone that helped me get to that start line.
I think about them during that point and that gives me the inspiration I need to complete that mile.
“The race is a few days away and I’m nervous and giddy.
“Wow probably one of the most challenging events I’ve done in my life!
I was surprised by every part of that event.
The swim felt like a dream.
The run was interestingly the toughest part.
It was hot and that part of the race really became mind over matter.
It really is magic.”
“Signing up for a triathlon or a race allows me to look up and to look forward.
The older I get, the more I value my sleep and recovery days.
Part of what’s kept me on top of my training is taking classes with my co-workers.
What mental or physical tool do you wish every new race runner had?
“Dia con dia day by day.
My mother has said this to me my whole life.
Training and preparing for an event will be different every time you put your tennies on.
Meet yourself with some grace.
I had a few weeks before the Tri where running felt unbearable.
I wasn’t hard on myself.
I did more yoga and meditation.
Eventually, running felt great again.
Every single run and every single race are going to be its own experience.
I recently did a 19-mile training where I cried and laughed at different points.
It was very cathartic.
I just check that to smile on the event day.
You’ve made it that far… now you just get to enjoy it.”
I was not enjoying the 9 to 5 and I discovered that running gave me a new freedom.
I simultaneously started training at an MMA and boxing gym.
This time period certainly ignited a flame and created a passion.
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What are your top three tips for everyday energy and endurance?
This includes rest days and daily sleep and recovery maintenance.
“Second, is knowing how you should probably fuel.
Do you prefer outside running or treadmill running?
And did you do both while training for your races?
Running on a tread is a great way to lock into a speed or pace and sit there.
It trains the mind in patience but also the body on maintaining an even speed.
What do you do on days when you don’t feel like running?
If I am really really against running I don’t.
If I feel like it is my body telling me I need to rest, I listen.
Missing one session is okay, just not multiple and regularly!”
What would you say to someone who’s training for their first race?
“Race day is just another run.”
