More than miles

We're two weeks past the beginner 5k race and I'm still feeling immense gratitude for the opportunity of coaching 10 remarkable women. Over the 7 week period we walked, talked, shared, supported, and yes even ran. The goal may have been the same for everyone- running a 5k, the experiences however were highly individualized. We began as strangers, finished as a team, and became fierce friends.

The life we endured along the way:

• One ankle sprain- succumbed while literally smelling the roses. Valuable lessons: Lookout for potholes, frozen vegetables make the ultimate ice pack, and after rest and recovery, ankles and hearts do heal. 
• Maintaining practice commitments when unable to run with the group is possible. One participant proved that taking time to care for an aging mother in-law doesn't have to derail your goals- with the help of a 5k app (texting me when she completed the workout) she remained on the 5k course. 
• We learned that time and patience to heal is as important (if not more important), than training. Our bodies are remarkable, adapting, and transforming with specific training. However, our hearts require special acceptance and unconditional love. It’s through this deep honoring that  we become an integrated, holistic athlete. 
• Sometimes running plans needed to be diverted to help a father through a surgery. Assisting aging parents gladly trumps scheduled runs.
• A tweaked knee would be reason enough for many to fold. Not for one courageous woman in the group. She respected the pain, slowed down, and took precautions to be sure she could run her race. 
• Taking on a 5k program while working 12 hour days and preparing for a move, is for the strong at heart. True grit describes this individual.
• The fear of not being able to breathe during running is real. Running regardless of that fear is the action that leads to improved cardiovascular health. It’s showing up, working through respiratory-challenges that happen when your feet leave the ground, and trusting that you’re going to be okay!

Our lives continued throughout the 7 week journey. We were impacted at home, at work, in our relationships, and by our emotions. The value of “knowing you’re not alone” is the ultimate team experience. The feeling that “you’re OKAY" exactly as you are is the  inclusivity felt by individuals willing to be in the 5k arena and run more than just miles.