I noticed my neighbor Talia starting to include weekly jogs into her workout routine, so of course, I had to encourage her every chance I got. I’m always so proud to see people taking charge of their health and fitness, and I could tell Talia was determined.
During our exchange, she mentioned wanting to run a half marathon (131.1 miles) but didn’t think she could. BUT I KNEW SHE COULD, so I said if she wanted, I would provide her with a customized training program according to her ability and her schedule; after all, Talia also has a full time job as a Postal Carrier and as a MOM! I emailed her schedule and she did the rest!
Talia is pictured below finishing her first half marathon race on November 10, 2019. When I saw her after the race, back at our apartment building, I gave her a HUGE congrats! Her reply shocked me – she said “I couldn’t have done it without you!”
And folks, this is why I love the path I am currently on – making impact on lives in so many ways, ways we often, as coaches and trainers, don’t even realize. Talia had the work ethic and persistence to do the training; all she needed was a gentle nudge from me, to steer her along her chosen path!
Talia was gracious to write me this sweet letter…
“Today I completed my first HALF MARATHON! Before that I had only done the Great Aloha Run, and even then I wasn’t really prepared. I ran/walked it for fun with a friend who really enjoyed running, but I had only been running 2-4miles maybe twice a week only to help me lose weight and get into shape. I could only dream of being able to run longer distances!
Thank you so much for believing that I could make this a reality. I wouldn’t have even given this half marathon a second thought if it weren’t for your words of encouragement. Thank you for taking the time to figure out a training schedule for me. You didn’t have to go through the trouble, and to me that really showed the passion you have for helping people become better, stronger, healthier versions of themselves. I never thought I would ever be able to do 13 miles! So thank you for making that happen.
I feel like because I’ve come this far, I can’t stop now! One day I WILL complete a marathon, and I’ll continue to train. All it took was for you to tell me that I CAN.”
😊
Talia Untalan