Open Mic Friday: Lori

Open Mic Friday is our way of connecting runners in the Lounge.  This week's interview is with Lori, a new runner and Lounger.  One look at her profile and we knew we wanted to know more.  Get to know Lori, and then, there is a bit of homework at the end of her interview - she is looking for tips on the marathon.  And not just any one - the Chicago marathon - her first.

How did you start running?
Growing up I had always been overweight. (before pic on right) You know the type, meat and potatoes girl, I didn't like anything green, everything plain. Trying to have children opened my eyes about my health. I gave up smoking, drinking and caffine, everyone thought  I was trying to kill myself...just kidding.  After I had my twin girls, 3 years ago, I became more active and watched what kind of foods I was eating and my portions. Like I said I was more active, plus I breastfed, and watched my food intake, my weight was dropping.  After a while I hit a wall, so then I joined Weight Watchers.  To this date I have lost 90lbs and have kept it off. (after pic below left)
Earlier this year the girls at work and I were talking about working out and running to get toned up. One of our doctors told us about the Couch to 5K plan, so I found it online and started it right away. I made a goal to run the Memorial Day 5K. Going from never running to starting this plan was a challenge, but as you know keeping with something, it gets easier.

What is the hardest part about running and how do you overcome it?
The solitude, running by myself I have to use a lot of self talk not to quit.  It is so hard to run long distances and not get bored, or focus on aches and pains or the weather.  I tell myself, "you can do it, the girls will be so proud of you, Chicago Marathon".  I just keep going.

You are new to running but recently earned a 2nd place finish for your age in a 5k- tell us about that?  When I showed up to the race I was so intimiated. I was around all of the runners, who know what they are doing and here is me, a new runner.  I felt out of place. Everyone was really nice though, then a friend of mine showed up and I felt a little better. When I saw my huband and girls show up to support me I was overwhelmed and about started to cry. I was so happy that they were there to see me in my first race, I have been training so hard.  We all lined up and the sounder went off and we began the race.  I began strong but then told myself to slow down and get comfortable.  At our turn around point I hit my stride and felt really good. The last mile and a half was comfortable and I saw the finish and gave it my all. I came in before my friend who is a long time runner. It was a moral boost.  When the awards were being handed out they called my friend's name for third, and I thought, wow I'm second.  I probably had the biggest silly smile standing up there to get my trophy.

You are preparing for Chicago, your first marathon, how are you doing it? Any particular books, sites, tips, training plans?
Like I said before my initial goal was to complete a 5K, never any plan to run a marathon. One day I got a mailing about the Chicago Marathon and I thought I can run 13miles if I try. So I went in search of a book to help me train. I found the book The Non-Runners Marathon Trainer, and began to read a little while in the store. The book is so motivating.   I walked up to my husband and said I am going to run the whole marathon.  I know he thought I was crazy but he supported me. So I began my training using the book.  I am almost done with that training program so I am looking for more training programs.

What concerns do you have about running your first marathon?
I am concerned about the weather and running 26.2miles.  I know I can do it if I keep training and keeping positive, but of course I am nervous.

What advice/support would you like/need from other runners?
I would like to hear stories from other runners who have run the Chicago Marathon.  I need advice on nutrition and hydration during and after runs. I need advice on nutrition in general, since I have been running longer distances my hunger and appetite have greatly increased.  I need a runners diet, it there is such a thing as one. With busy schedules how do you fit in your run?

I just want to say that runners are the nicest and most helpful people. I can not wait to connect with other runners, I look forward to any advice that they will share. 

Comments

[Viv]

WOW Congratulations Lori!!

Best of luck with the Chicago Marathon.

[oktree]

Amazing, inspiring story, Lori! I am glad you found running!

[Nancy]

Good luck!! My training (and blog)(and name!) were first inspired by that book. Loved it.

You look fantastic. Go get em!

[Lisa]

You look beautiful, Lori!! Enjoy Chicago...I've done that race twice. :) You'll feel like a rock star and an olympian, trust me.

[Dina]

What a great story Lori! Thanks for sharing! One piece of advice for a new marathoner is to walk as much as possible after the race is over and the next day. You won't feel near as sore! So instead of taking a taxi afterwards to the hotel, or getting a ride, consider walking back - you will be glad you did!!

[Laura]

Lori, I just did my first marathon a few weeks ago and had a blast. If you're used to running with music, one thing I'd recommend is getting your friends/family to pick some songs to put on it. It was such a boost to think of all my loved ones cheering me on as "their" songs came on! Definitely helped alleviate the boredom of a long run, especially since a lot of it was new music I hadn't heard before.