Sunday, September 07, 2008

GROUP TRAINING

For many years, I trained alone for everything. I did not want to be embarrassed because of how slow that I was. I knew that most likely no one else would be my speed and I would be by myself anyway.

That all changed last November when I began learning how to swim and found my master's swim group. Everyone was divided into lanes according to ability. Even though I was the slowest in lane 1-I started and finished when everyone in the group did. I gained alot of confidence when no one laughed at me and treated me like one of the gang.

This lead me to biking outside with others. Snoopy and Sharkie are great to bike with and I felt like I belonged on the road. I gained more confidence.

With my registration for the Chicago Marathon, I decided to take another look at training with a group. Luckily Iron Snoopy introduced me to the Glen Ellyn Runners Club. I have found nothing but positives and I met Snips. Today my 18 miler turned into a 19 miler. When Snips and I got to the 9 mile turn around, we decided to go another .5 before turning back. We finished feeling fine with club members clapping for us at the finish. Again, I found that I gained more confidence.

Bottom line is that the group training has done nothing but build my confidence rather than bring me down.

Waddling with a 19 miler in the books.............

8 comments:

Sunshine said...

Fabulous YOU!! We are cheering!!
Hope Chicago is a whole lot better than last year.

Michelle said...

That's really good to hear. I have stayed away from group stuff for the same reason you did. Maybe when I return to training I'll join the local tri group I've been eying. And thanks for the congrats regarding the little one :)

Irene said...

I was amazed how group training helped me. Glad to hear it's working for you!

Vickie said...

That is great! I always think you run better with others because you HAVE to make an effort but also the commaraderie makes it more fun. I predict you will do very well at the marathon.

TRI TO BE FUNNY said...

It really does make the training much more fun AND fulfilling!

iJuls said...

Hurray!

Steve Stenzel said...

Nice job!!

I'm with Sunshine - I hope Chicago is NOT like last year!!

Joe said...

Cool...and a great encouragement.

Wow, a 19 miler under your belt...with snips to boot. You are really in solid shape!!

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