Back in January, ABC Pilates along with our clients set our goals for 2009. I decided to set a personal goal for myself and committed to run a 1/2 Marathon by August of this year. I actually met my goal May 2nd running for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation's Cinco de Mayo Half Marathon. It was a challenge that I was not sure I could keep. I am so glad I did it and proud for making the effort and committment to myself. I and am grateful that I had many people support me in my 5 month preparation for this worthy cause.
Since this was my first 1/2 marathon, (well, technically I ran one at age 26 but hey that was at 26 not 42) I wanted to test Pilates to see how much it could really help in my training. So, I ran 3 times a week and did Pilates 3 times a week alternating days. I took Pilates Express and Cardio Reformer with Katherine to amp up my cardio output for training and of course daily stretching. I kept suprising myself each week at how much stronger I felt in my legs and how much longer and faster I could run. During the process, I did hurt my hip but it is a common running injury. My IT Band and piriformis were so tight in my right hip that it was sometimes painful to walk. I went to Dr. Emily and she was able to treat me with her laser and other equipment that helped heal the hip. Plus she gave me supplements that helped with overall energy and nutrition. I felt blessed that my training included such supportive colleagues.
I felt tired after the run and actually was a Zombie all that day but in the days after, I expected to be in pain and stiff and actually was not. I started Pilates within 2 days of the race and was out running again within 3 days and felt great!
So my test was postitive and I highly recommend doing Pilates during any training program to help with flexibility, strength and endurance. Yes, I know I own the studio and of course I would recommend Pilates but now I have truly lived the experience and have seen the results on myself and am here to tell you it works.
I am now going to set a goal for a triathalon in August. Does anyone want to join me in my training and do their own test?
I would love to hear about your success stories with Pilates and will keep you posted on my training this summer.
