The Lifestyle: Philadelphia Marathon

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post_bryce1_112314_03For the last seven months, I have been mentally and physically preparing myself to complete the GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon. Now, if you think running a half marathon is rough, try mentally preparing yourself for 26.2 miles! When I initially signed up for the race, I was scared to death. My biggest fear was hitting a performance wall, and not completing the marathon. So, I decided to develop a fitness schedule, which would help monitor my weekly progression. Typically, I run and workout about four times a week on a regular basis.

At the beginning of the summer, I increased my average weekly runs to twenty miles. Once I began training, it felt like the marathon was here no time.

On Sunday, November 23, I arrived to the Ben Franklin Parkway, ready to take on one of the most challenging events of my life. The race began promptly at 7:30am. Although it was chilly at first, the temperature begin to warm up within the first two hours. Needless to say, I had on two layers of clothing.

We ran through historic landmarks like Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin’s Burial Place, the National Constitution Center and the Liberty Bell, through urban neighborhoods such as Old City, University City, South Philadelphia and Manayunk, and along the picturesque waterfronts of the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers.

After a grueling five hours of blood, sweat, tears, and two leg cramps, I finally crossed the finish line to my a glorious crowd, family, and friends. Right before I crossed the finish line, tears began to run down my face. Now, these were not tears of sadness and pain, but tears of joy. My adrenaline was still rushing and I was so proud of myself. It’s one thing to add personal goals to your bucket list, it’s another to finally scratch one off.

I just want to thank all my friends and family for supporting me through the ups and downs of this event! Love you guys!

Have you ever pushed yourself to the limit mentally and physically? If so, share with us in the comments section below!

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