Special Running Series (Becky, My Twin Sis)–Back in the Saddle

Starting today, my twin sister Becky will be writing a weekly post that follows her experiences as she returns to running from a lengthy hiatus.  Her posts will cover her training journey and culminate with the Alexandria Half Marathon on May 27, which we are running together. I’m so excited that Becky is getting back into running since she was the one who first got me addicted to the sport in the first place! 🙂

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Hi there, I’m Becky, Claire’s twin sister!

With Claire's little frenchie girl on a visit to Cville

I’m here to kick-off my new recurring guest post–Back in the Saddle— on Claire’s blog.  I have read alongside all of you as Claire has grown her blog, allowing a fascinating and inspiring look into her fabulous Charlottesville life and her running achievements (of which I am so proud!)

Claire’s never-ending determination (in both school/work and in running) has inspired many of you ….and me too! As a passionate runner and marathoner 5 years ago, I loved everything about the sport. The dedication, the physical and mental strength it required, and the personal satisfaction I got from crossing the finish line – these were all reasons that got me up in the morning and out pounding the pavement. Yet over the past several years, I’ve lost my course with running. Business school, traveling, and co-habitating with the bf all chipped away at my devout running habit.

That’s me running the Soldier Field 10-Miler, Chicago 2008!

Claire and I at the 2008 Chicago Marathon – Claire’s very first marathon and my third 🙂

On pace for a 3:30 finish at the 2008 Chicago Marathon (I'm all the way on the left)

Now, I’m determined to get back in tip-top running shape and share the journey with all of you! I’ve set my sights on the Alexandria Half Marathon near DC over Memorial Day weekend and will run alongside my sister. Yet, to get to the starting line I have my work cut out for me.  I must re-train my body in all ways as I work toward the goal of finishing the half marathon with Claire.

Whether you’re a beginner runner, a runner trying to get back at it, or a veteran who hits the road daily – join me as I share my journey here weekly, hitting the trails in the great city of New York and sharing my insights, struggles, and inspirations as I get back into the amazing world of running.

2007 Chicago Marathon

I’m currently several weeks into a half marathon training program set up by Claire (she’s now my running guru!). It’s a very conservative plan, one that I would used to think was too easy, but it’s been awhile since I ran consistently and I can tell the mileage is starting to creep up.

Should make for some interesting posts to come,  Wish me luck!

Have you ever taken time off running or another sport only to come back to it? 

I know my body can handle the miles but my motivation is the real obstacle. How do you get motivated to run and/or follow a training program? 

Do you have any races coming up in April or May?