Ever participated in AvonWalk or marathon?

[craZ4HERKIE]

I was just wondering if anyone has ever participated in AvonWalk for Breast Cancer?Or any other marathon?It's 26.2 miles, but it's done over 2 days...13.1 miles on sat, then the rest on sun.I am very interested in doing this, but don't really know how to prepare except to start hittting the gym hard!And I know A LOT of people are going to say that I can't do it, and I am probably my biggest critic!For a few reasons I am skeptical...The biggest being that I am FAT!...I once saw on my chart at the Dr's office I was morbidly obese...but I just don't feel that way.Mind you, I don't run or anything...but I walk several times daily with my boys(I know neighborhood walks are totally different than this), run up & down stairs constantly, and my job is pretty physical(mail processor for USPS).People see me as fat...and I am...but I really don't FEEL like it(to an extent)and also if I sign up..I have to commit to raising $1800...and I'm not at all sure how to do that!(but I have an idea)

I plan on joining the YMCA, whether or not I do the Avonwalk or not, and I have from now until mid April to get ready for this.Being that I have led a sedentary lifestyle(mom's words)...do ya'll think I am biting off more than I can chew?Should I maybe try to find a smaller walk and work my way up?I am kind of leaning this way...but don't know where to start looking for walks like these.

I had a very good friend die of breast cancer in 1999, and it still affects me when I think about her.And I want to do something to make a difference.I tried to get some of my co-workers to join me and we do it as a team, but most said they would prefer to donate!..Of course no one has said "jessica, you can't do that, you're out of shape"...but I know how they are, and are probably just yacking up a storm behind my back!

I would appreciate any thoughts...and suggestions!

 

[kelseighgirl]

Andrea (abradbury) and I were thinking about doing the Susan G Komen 3-day breast cancer walk. That one is 60 miles and you have to raise 2,100.00.
I know that they have people that help you prepare for it. They tell you how to exercise so you are ready and what things you should take with you..( extra socks, shoes etc)
As far as fundraising ideas...you can do a search for breast cancer fundraising items and do something like if people donate "x" amount of money they get a breast cancer pin or some kind of trinket (sp?). Sometimes people like to feel like they got something for donating.

Good luck and you can do it!!!

 

[marciafinn]

I think that this a great idea Jessica! I haven't personally done this walk but my friend's mom did it once. Now she is doing smaller walks a few times per yer, I'm not really sure why. She trained both at the gym and outside. The reasoning is that she said the walk is outside and it is different to work out on a treadmill than it is on pavement. Also, like Robin said there are people to help you with tips and I'm sure you can find info on the Internet too.

When is the marathon? Obviously you will want to give yourself plenty of time to train for this. I wouldn't let anyone let you think differently - even yourself. If you have a goal you wan to achieve then you must go for it no matter what. I hate to sound like some motivational speaker that is just blowing smoke, but it is true. I also think if you commit to the training, then you will have no problem raising the money. But again, leave yourself with plenty of time to raise the money.

I wish you tons of luck and think that it is great you are trying to make a difference. Please let us know how training goes and when you'll be going to the marathon!