Ever since I decided to train for the ING NYC Marathon I’ve hit a mother load of questions. I discovered an online forum on the NYRR online training program and have found that the people there are not only inspiring but they’re helpful as well.
When I first signed up I started threads like: “Newbie. I’m not sure what I was thinking.” I wrote out my story and how worried I was about running 26.2 miles. They came back to me with some of the most inspirational stories. I seriously had tears in my eyes. It pays to be honest and upfront. After that, I felt a little better. I began asking more questions. I bugged them about physical therapists, running routes, Central Park safety tips, energy foods, and sports drinks. Each and every time I was greeted with information. (For example, I found this superbly amazing site where you can map out any route and find out exactly how much mileage it is. Totally freaking awesome, people. Go there.)
It’s been over a week and I’m finally starting to actually picture running a marathon and thinking about the logistics. For example, things like my cycle, using the bathroom during the marathon, overcoming an excitement fueled bout with insomnia the night before the big run, and how to actually get onto Staten Island by 7 AM that Sunday morning came to mind.
Seriously, what if a woman has her period during the marathon? This idea suddenly (not to sound dramatic) terrified me. I was so worried about actually learning how to run the mileage I completely forgot that nature would be a force to reckon with as well. No matter how much one trains, one still has to deal with good old Mother Nature. (Bitch.) And so I asked the question. What if I have my period during the marathon?
I have learned that sometimes the Carb gels make people vomit. And the Carb gel booth is at mile 18 so if you plan on consuming a gel for energy at mile 18, it’s best to practice a few times prior just to make sure you don’t vomit. After all, no one likes a vomiting jogger. I haven’t tried the gels yet. But Tobyjoe purchased two packets for me. I plan on diving in this Saturday when we run through Central Park during our 11-mile run.
I learned that it’s best to avoid any fiber at all before the marathon for reasons one might imagine. I learned that you shouldn’t take any Acetaminophen 24 hours leading up to a big run as it might cause kidney damage. I learned not to eat anything but maybe an egg or two for breakfast that morning and make sure it’s done hours and hours beforehand. I learned that stretching, using the bathroom and drinking is recommended throughout the run. I learned that walking isn’t at all shameful and neither is dropping out should you suffer from an injury. I learned that one must continue to walk for at least 25 minutes after the run even if one would rather immediately fall to the grass in Central Park while angels massage their feet and loved ones bring them gifts and candy, kisses and baby pools filled with Jell-O.
I learned all of this and a lot more (such as what to do should you have an irritating 11-mile diarrhea bout) but I still don’t know what to do about The Flow.
I’m still waiting for more feedback as this question was posed last night. But one woman wrote back and said that if I’m regular, I should talk to my OBGYN and see if there isn’t some way to curb the cycle. We’ll see. Until then, I’ll continue to freak out. Until then, I’ll continue to talk incessantly about it. Until then, feel free to sponsor me a buck or two. #73577 Howley.
Oh, and one more thing, I would like to thank all those who have donated money thus far. I receive an email each time a donation is made. Those emails include the addresses and names of the people who do so. I will be sending you all something to show my gratitude. You have no idea how thankful I am. Eventually, I hope to be given the chance to repay each and every one of you.
Edited to add: Some of you are donating too much money. I meant it when I said I’d be happy with 10 bucks. I swear to crap. But please, please, please if you’re going to donate more than that, make sure you write this off it’s the only way my conscience will let this fly.
Mihow 
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