My friend, Nate Dove shares 10 lessons from training for and running the NYC marathon.
1. You must have a good support system ,,, and I have an AMAZING support system!
2. High fiving a total stranger will give you more energy than a GU packet.
3. Who knew “a race” could completely humble you and bring you to tears when you haven’t even crossed the finish line yet.
4. The cameraman at mile 1 who said “you’re almost there” was completely full of BS.
5. Accepting a challenge to complete 6 months of training, meaning little time for anything else will surprisingly make you grateful … no I really mean it, thanks Greg Atkinson.
6. For a city known as the Big Apple, it’s strange that an orange slice could be the sweetest thing you ever tasted.
7. Receiving a medal that’s worth no monetary value can still be completely invaluable.
8. The strength you obtain from all of your family and friends cheering you on while watching is greater than the pressure to perform since everyone’s watching.
9. Just when you think it can’t get tougher, you hit mile 21 … then 22 … then 23 … then 24 … then 25.
10. Crossing the finish line for a cause greater than yourself will teach you life lessons you haven’t learned in 37 years.
Nate Dove is a runner, duathlete, triathlete and all around fitness enthusiast. NYC was his fastest marathon at 4:18:06. His favorite type of run: Fartlek. His advice: “Don’t forget to have fun! Everyone enjoys crossing the finish line on race day, but there’s plenty of opportunities for a good time along the way.”
