Since I've started this little venture, the most frequent question I've been asked (other than "are you crazy" and "won't your nipples bleed") is "what kind of changes are you making to your diet"? So far, all I've really done is try to eat healthier. I'll have maybe a meal or two a week that wouldn't be considered healthy, but the rest is whole grains, salads, veggies, fruits, lean protein and depressing bowls of Kashi (I love Fruit Loops...sorry Toucan Sam, we'll meet again down the road. FYI, I actually own this T-Shirt, don't judge).
The only big change I've made so far, is my first ever trip to the Vitamin Shoppe (most European name you'll see in Union, NJ). Apparently I had forgotten how out there these stores are. When you walk in, if you look to the right, you'll see a wall of protein and aisles of products that seem to be named after car parts (apparently they get you ripped). However if you turn to the left, the car part names yield to the names of leaves and green things I've never heard of. It's basically like the store is geared towards people who either wear their shirts too tight, or those who don't want to wear shirts or shoes at all. The most interesting products were 'body system cleansers' (if you don't know what that is, google it). They all claim to be 'fast-acting' and 'gentle', however if there's anything I know about that process, those to are diametric opposites. Anyway, when all was said and done, I walked about with a supply of multi-vitamins, green tea extract, fish oil pills(all of which I actually think make me feel pretty good), and a bonus card (what can I say, the atmosphere intrigued me).
Training this week had been fantastic. Since I have a mini-vacation the next few days, I really pushed it Sunday-Wednesday with no ill effects. I was able to log a pain free 18 total miles, and two hard lifting days. What was interesting however, was I was set for a 5 mile Wednesday run, however at the 5 mile mark, the famous song from the Rocky IV training sequence came on. Now I don't know about you, but if Rocky can run up a mountain, beat up a Russian, grow a beard in 8 days and end the Cold War, I can leg out another mile. So...Wednesday became a full 10K.
For this long weekend, I will celebrate the 4th of July by hanging out with some great friends in Ottawa, celebrating Canada Day. I've always heard its a great time, and I'm quite excited about my four day weekend. Hopefully I'll be able to catch some fireworks on my 8 hour ride home Sunday.
That's all until Tuesday,
Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Belated Father's Day, Did You Know?, and Links...
When I was growing up, Father's Day was a day that I knew I had to say something special to my dad in the morning, sign a card, have steak for dinner, and act excited while my dad opened something my mom bought (until I got a job, then I had to pay her back). After I left for school, I started to realize the importance of thanking my parents for everything they have done. Now that I've been out of the house for quite awhile, and don't see my parents that often, I see the "parental holidays" as something I really get excited about. They are the days I work the hardest to think of good gifts, and look forward to our Sunday phone conversations. This year, I got to take my dad on his first trip to the new Yankee Stadium. We got there nice early, hit monument park, and took in batting practice. Seeing how excited he was to be there made me even happier than I am to receive gifts (and I love getting free stuff). We had a great day, and a great family weekend overall...even though I decided while playing Apples-To-Apples I was going to pick whatever card would drive my dad the craziest.
I got some pretty interesting add-on facts from the people at the NJ Share Network today. Did you know that:
-40.3% of US residents over the age of 18 are registered organ donors
-That is a 9.7% increase over the previous year
-Approximately 32% of NJ residents over 18 are registered organ donors (step your game up New Jersey)
-Want to make sure you are registered? Click here.
To be totally honest, it's beyond me why you wouldn't register. If you don't think it makes a big difference, spend your next eight minutes watching this. Make sure you have some tissues.
Here's some links to lighten things up a bit:
-From today's I Didn't Need To Know That department...tisk tisk Mrs. Brady
-Don't tease us Floyd. Speaking on behalf of boxing fans, we need this.
-As a Sabres fan, I was quite excited about what the did in this trade and the draft
-Bet you didn't know Matthew McConaughey and Renee Zellweger were in this little number. I haven't bothered reading the reviews, but my money's on 'It Sucks'.
-This is why you don't let your grandma play flip cup.
That's all for now. I should have something satyrical and light-hearted tomorrow evening.
-Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
I got some pretty interesting add-on facts from the people at the NJ Share Network today. Did you know that:
-40.3% of US residents over the age of 18 are registered organ donors
-That is a 9.7% increase over the previous year
-Approximately 32% of NJ residents over 18 are registered organ donors (step your game up New Jersey)
-Want to make sure you are registered? Click here.
To be totally honest, it's beyond me why you wouldn't register. If you don't think it makes a big difference, spend your next eight minutes watching this. Make sure you have some tissues.
Here's some links to lighten things up a bit:
-From today's I Didn't Need To Know That department...tisk tisk Mrs. Brady
-Don't tease us Floyd. Speaking on behalf of boxing fans, we need this.
-As a Sabres fan, I was quite excited about what the did in this trade and the draft
-Bet you didn't know Matthew McConaughey and Renee Zellweger were in this little number. I haven't bothered reading the reviews, but my money's on 'It Sucks'.
-This is why you don't let your grandma play flip cup.
That's all for now. I should have something satyrical and light-hearted tomorrow evening.
-Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
Monday, June 27, 2011
Guest Blog - Marathon Parter in Crime
Hi everyone – This is my first blog post as Matt’s friend who is (trying to) complete the marathon with him. The first thing I’ll do to keep you interested is tell you that, at times, Matt has referred to me as ‘the dumbest smart person I know.’ I may not dispel that idea in my guest blog posts.
Here is a brief history of our friendship. I’ll preface by saying there will be no Rocky/Apollo-esque embrace at the race’s end. I will need a wheelchair, a body-sized foil bag, and some fruit. Those will come after my hand gesture to the adoring crowd. Keep reading for more on that.
THE HISTORY:
1) Circa 1992: First met by being in the same Boy Scout troop. Didn’t like each other. Not sure what changed that. A combo of when I realized that his sense of humor is hilarious, or his seeing my dad’s sense of humor (who was known to drag late-sleepers out of their tents, sleeping bag and all), or us realizing there is a mutual interest in hockey.
2) Circa 1994-1999: An absurd amount of hockey watching. “Top shelf where mama hides the cookies” is the best hockey play-by-play phrase ever. Almost got stitches due to a wrestling match that ended with my head meeting a ping pong table.
3) Circa 1997-1998: A lot of hockey at this bush-league rink called ‘Spinners.’ It could be the name of a Gentleman’s Club.
4) Circa 1998: Shouting match with Matt over a carpool mix-up for a town fair. Shortly thereafter, reconciliation and discussion of how to get dates with the girls working at Wegmans.
5) Circa 1998-2000?: Many trips to the Stendardi vacation spot, Lake of Bays’ Lumina Resort, in Ontario, Canada. I still have and wear the resort t-shirt, and yes it’s old enough there are some irremovable pit stains. I withhold any apology for that.
6) Circa fall 2000: Visited Matt at Lycoming. Introduced to Yuengling before it was a national beer. Delicious. Thank you, Central PA.
7) Circa 2005: Matt visits me in Madison, WI. Highlights include Brat-Fest and chugging a “Fishbowl” at Wando’s….the type of place people go after last call.
8) Circa 2007: Visited Matt. Met or re-met some of the Lyco crew such as Gene, Dave and Trevor. Obviously good people. Introduction to Espresso vodka.
9) 2009: Visited Matt during a huge road trip. Viewed the third period--at Hooters after a round of golf--of Game 7 of Washington-Pittsburgh. Worst Game 7 ever.
10) Early 2011: Matt calls about the Marathon. I figure why not. It would be nice to cross it off the bucket list and if its thug sports fans don’t rob you, Philly is a nice place to visit in the fall.
11) Late 2011: If/when I cross the finish line, I will hold up my hand with the #1 symbol. I will be equating it to winning the Superbowl no matter how many people just beat me.
Add it to the register of reasons I am the ‘dumbest smart person’ Matt knows. More to follow…Andy G.
Here is a brief history of our friendship. I’ll preface by saying there will be no Rocky/Apollo-esque embrace at the race’s end. I will need a wheelchair, a body-sized foil bag, and some fruit. Those will come after my hand gesture to the adoring crowd. Keep reading for more on that.
THE HISTORY:
1) Circa 1992: First met by being in the same Boy Scout troop. Didn’t like each other. Not sure what changed that. A combo of when I realized that his sense of humor is hilarious, or his seeing my dad’s sense of humor (who was known to drag late-sleepers out of their tents, sleeping bag and all), or us realizing there is a mutual interest in hockey.
2) Circa 1994-1999: An absurd amount of hockey watching. “Top shelf where mama hides the cookies” is the best hockey play-by-play phrase ever. Almost got stitches due to a wrestling match that ended with my head meeting a ping pong table.
3) Circa 1997-1998: A lot of hockey at this bush-league rink called ‘Spinners.’ It could be the name of a Gentleman’s Club.
4) Circa 1998: Shouting match with Matt over a carpool mix-up for a town fair. Shortly thereafter, reconciliation and discussion of how to get dates with the girls working at Wegmans.
5) Circa 1998-2000?: Many trips to the Stendardi vacation spot, Lake of Bays’ Lumina Resort, in Ontario, Canada. I still have and wear the resort t-shirt, and yes it’s old enough there are some irremovable pit stains. I withhold any apology for that.
6) Circa fall 2000: Visited Matt at Lycoming. Introduced to Yuengling before it was a national beer. Delicious. Thank you, Central PA.
7) Circa 2005: Matt visits me in Madison, WI. Highlights include Brat-Fest and chugging a “Fishbowl” at Wando’s….the type of place people go after last call.
8) Circa 2007: Visited Matt. Met or re-met some of the Lyco crew such as Gene, Dave and Trevor. Obviously good people. Introduction to Espresso vodka.
9) 2009: Visited Matt during a huge road trip. Viewed the third period--at Hooters after a round of golf--of Game 7 of Washington-Pittsburgh. Worst Game 7 ever.
10) Early 2011: Matt calls about the Marathon. I figure why not. It would be nice to cross it off the bucket list and if its thug sports fans don’t rob you, Philly is a nice place to visit in the fall.
11) Late 2011: If/when I cross the finish line, I will hold up my hand with the #1 symbol. I will be equating it to winning the Superbowl no matter how many people just beat me.
Add it to the register of reasons I am the ‘dumbest smart person’ Matt knows. More to follow…Andy G.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
$9 Socks, NJ Driving, and 30th birthdays
Hey everyone. I wanted to post earlier this week, however I had some home internet issues (don't worry Dad, I paid my bill). Anyway, its late and I don't have much in the way of cohesive thoughts, so this is gonna be Aaron Karo style ruminations/rumblings.
I went for a bit of a distance run this past Saturday (7.5 miles) with mixed results. My pace was good throughout (8:57...which is what I'm shooting for in Philly), my legs felt great, my playlist was superb, but my feet decided to be a party pooper. I've always had "soft feet", so whenever I run myself into shape, I can get some wicked blisters (anyone interested in a gross pic can hit up my twitter @mstendardi). Around mile 5 my feet felt uncomfortable, and it just got worse from there. I was finally out there again today after a few days rest (from running, still lifted and hit the bike), and a purchase of $9 socks (sad face).
One interesting trend on facebook is seeing everyone's status hate on the driving in NJ. I've been traveling almost every weekend of late, and let me tell my limited audience; you all have your issues too. Have you ever driven through Pennsylvania? You could drive through it on Friday, and people are moving like they don't have anywhere to be until Sunday. People in Connecticut drive on the shoulder, Marylanders never learned the left lane is the passing lane, and in New York there's a different thing to whine about every five miles. The point is this; pay attention, put on some good tunes and relax. You can only control what happens in your own car, and updating your facebook with a whiney status ain't helping you make positive contributions to the traffic situation (especially if you're updating while driving).
I think someone at NYSC might have seen my last post, because they were unofficially sponsoring 'Hot girls in yoga pants day' today. It was athletic apparel karma, and I loved every bit of it.
My friends Nick and Kerrilee had a joint 30th birthday party this past Saturday. It was quite a good time. I always love seeing my friends from college in a group setting. Lots of laughs, good company, and someone is always picking up a couple fresh pitchers. That said, 30 is something of a landmark birthday, and not one many look forward to. It's almost like a finish line for doing "young people" things on the "bucket list". My 30th is 10 months away, and come November I'll be able to cross another one of those items off. And while this past saturday I learned that my bowling game isn't what it used to be, at least I can afford $9 socks.
I went for a bit of a distance run this past Saturday (7.5 miles) with mixed results. My pace was good throughout (8:57...which is what I'm shooting for in Philly), my legs felt great, my playlist was superb, but my feet decided to be a party pooper. I've always had "soft feet", so whenever I run myself into shape, I can get some wicked blisters (anyone interested in a gross pic can hit up my twitter @mstendardi). Around mile 5 my feet felt uncomfortable, and it just got worse from there. I was finally out there again today after a few days rest (from running, still lifted and hit the bike), and a purchase of $9 socks (sad face).
One interesting trend on facebook is seeing everyone's status hate on the driving in NJ. I've been traveling almost every weekend of late, and let me tell my limited audience; you all have your issues too. Have you ever driven through Pennsylvania? You could drive through it on Friday, and people are moving like they don't have anywhere to be until Sunday. People in Connecticut drive on the shoulder, Marylanders never learned the left lane is the passing lane, and in New York there's a different thing to whine about every five miles. The point is this; pay attention, put on some good tunes and relax. You can only control what happens in your own car, and updating your facebook with a whiney status ain't helping you make positive contributions to the traffic situation (especially if you're updating while driving).
I think someone at NYSC might have seen my last post, because they were unofficially sponsoring 'Hot girls in yoga pants day' today. It was athletic apparel karma, and I loved every bit of it.
My friends Nick and Kerrilee had a joint 30th birthday party this past Saturday. It was quite a good time. I always love seeing my friends from college in a group setting. Lots of laughs, good company, and someone is always picking up a couple fresh pitchers. That said, 30 is something of a landmark birthday, and not one many look forward to. It's almost like a finish line for doing "young people" things on the "bucket list". My 30th is 10 months away, and come November I'll be able to cross another one of those items off. And while this past saturday I learned that my bowling game isn't what it used to be, at least I can afford $9 socks.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Thank You Sir, But I Don't Care To See Your Nipples
Five years ago, I moved to New Jersey. Roughly two years ago, MTV premiered Jersey Shore. Ever since then, whenever I meet someone new and I tell them I live in New Jersey, I get asked "Ohhhhh, Jurrrseee, you know Snooki". I politely reply "Nahh", then less politely roll my eyes or shake my head (I do the same when people ask if everyone of my friends fist pump. The answer may be yes, but fist pumping is a hell of a good time). While I may not have ever met Snooki, thanks to my gym, I have met an unbelievable amount of Situation clones. The latest fad has some of the guys dressing like Wesley Snipes from White Men Can't Jump (minus the hat...which let's be honest, is quite a shame). I say latest fad, because more often than not, these nipple exhibitionists (new name for this) go with the old stand by. That's only one of the odd things about my gym. Another is the locker room (don't worry, I'll be as clean as possible). Apparently the carpet and hardwood lockers make people really comfortable. Comfortable to the point they aren't putting clothes on until it's absolutely necessary. I say do what makes you happy, however I'd appreciate it if naked dudes wouldn't fly around the corner and surprise me like Ken Jeong jumping out of a trunk in The Hangover (I'll save y'all a link on that one...this is of course a family blog).
Here's a few links to finish out your work week:
-Some fairly informative and hilarious words of wisdom from the folks at cracked.com
-You would think a hockey series wouldn't be that big of a deal when you live in such a great city...kind of a shame
-Nice little rebound after getting swept by the sox.
-Very cool Klosterman piece on what having a DVR does for sports viewing
-How about an NHL Awards Preview for the hockey fans out there?
-As a big Buffalo Bills fan, I can assure you, Donte Whitner is not in anyway underrated
-For you last minute Father's Day shoppers
-In 24 weeks or so, my buddy Andy and I will exhaustedly, but happily be crossing a finish line that is 26.2 miles from the starting line. I don't know what our reaction will be, I just hope it is less ambiguous than these guys.
That's all until Sunday. Everybody have a great week, and Happy Father's Day!
Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
Here's a few links to finish out your work week:
-Some fairly informative and hilarious words of wisdom from the folks at cracked.com
-You would think a hockey series wouldn't be that big of a deal when you live in such a great city...kind of a shame
-Nice little rebound after getting swept by the sox.
-Very cool Klosterman piece on what having a DVR does for sports viewing
-How about an NHL Awards Preview for the hockey fans out there?
-As a big Buffalo Bills fan, I can assure you, Donte Whitner is not in anyway underrated
-For you last minute Father's Day shoppers
-In 24 weeks or so, my buddy Andy and I will exhaustedly, but happily be crossing a finish line that is 26.2 miles from the starting line. I don't know what our reaction will be, I just hope it is less ambiguous than these guys.
That's all until Sunday. Everybody have a great week, and Happy Father's Day!
Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Thanks for the bruised knees, I'll take my free beer now...
I'm back from the 3.5 miles of nonsense known as the Warrior Dash (I mean nonsense in the kindest sense of the word). This year was quite fun. The course was significantly harder, 10% longer, and the conditions were much worse, however I had some great friends with me, and a sweet house in the Poconos to relax in, so who can complain? I do hope next year the organizers aren't so, shall we say, aggressive, in their construction of the courses obstacles. Some were iffy, others were just flat out unsafe. I think the workers doing on-site repairs, and the collection of people who broke their ankles (and the poor dude who snapped his leg) would agree with me. All that said, if there's one of these in your area, get some friends together, put on some crappy clothes and jog around in some mud for the afternoon. Even if you're hating the race as its going on, your timing chip says FREE BEER right on it, so it's all good.
I greatly appreciate all the interest and feedback I have received so far. My buddy Gene asked if I'd be keeping a mileage log (consider it done), and just because of his outstanding suggestion, I won't be posting any pictures of blistered feet (well, I probably will, but I'll give fair warning). I've also been asked about my diet. Believe me, after today's unbelievably depressing grocery one, this will be the topic of more than one post. I've also gotten questions on running gear. My advice, get yourself to a local running store. Those people know their stuff, they'll take a video of your running stride, and get you the perfect gear. Maybe it costs $10 more, but that's what service will do for you. Anyone in the Northern/Central NJ area I can't recommend the Westfield Running Company high enough. Great people, great service.
Week 1 Miles Log: 12
Fundraising Check In: $417.40
Fundraising Goal: $2620.00
That's all for now. I'll be back later this week, and I believe there will be two guest blogs over the next six or seven days.
Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
I greatly appreciate all the interest and feedback I have received so far. My buddy Gene asked if I'd be keeping a mileage log (consider it done), and just because of his outstanding suggestion, I won't be posting any pictures of blistered feet (well, I probably will, but I'll give fair warning). I've also been asked about my diet. Believe me, after today's unbelievably depressing grocery one, this will be the topic of more than one post. I've also gotten questions on running gear. My advice, get yourself to a local running store. Those people know their stuff, they'll take a video of your running stride, and get you the perfect gear. Maybe it costs $10 more, but that's what service will do for you. Anyone in the Northern/Central NJ area I can't recommend the Westfield Running Company high enough. Great people, great service.
Week 1 Miles Log: 12
Fundraising Check In: $417.40
Fundraising Goal: $2620.00
That's all for now. I'll be back later this week, and I believe there will be two guest blogs over the next six or seven days.
Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Who Buys Stamps? (And Links...)
I gotta give credit to the people at the NJ Share Network. When they get lemons, they try their best to get at least some lemonade. While the donation page is technically "working", the online donation part is still getting fixed. The lemonade is that there is a link to a printable form for donations. That said, the process would require three things I'm not sure most people use on a daily basis anymore; a pen, checkbook and stamps. So stay tuned, they'll get everything fixed by Monday at the lastest, and we'll be back up and running.
Quick training note. I Did my first big lifting day on my legs today. Wow, am I sore. Apparently lifting legs is like swimming; if you take sometime off, you don't necessarily forget what to do, but it will wipe you out. Anyway, due to a Yanks rain delay, I'm in for a late night tonight, so how about some links to look at tomorrow while your boss thinks you're working?
-You may have seen this one already, but if not check it out. At the least it will put things in perspective.
-Bill Simmons (espn's sports guy) and co. have started a new website...its basically a dream team of pop culture columnists.
-Thinking running a marathon? This is a great place to start.
-Who doesn't love mullets and hockey?
-As a crazy Yanks fan this makes me kinda sad
-See what happens when you publicly expose your privates? Even on the internet, it makes everyone uncomfortable
-Kinda nice to see when being a celebrity/hot chick, doesn't give you a complete free pass from some very poor decision making
-Glad to see the public didn't take to a show glorifying teenage sexual activity
I'm off to the Poconos tomorrow for the weekend. I'll drop by again Monday, hopefully with a working donation site. Have a great, safe, and fun weekend!
-Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
Quick training note. I Did my first big lifting day on my legs today. Wow, am I sore. Apparently lifting legs is like swimming; if you take sometime off, you don't necessarily forget what to do, but it will wipe you out. Anyway, due to a Yanks rain delay, I'm in for a late night tonight, so how about some links to look at tomorrow while your boss thinks you're working?
-You may have seen this one already, but if not check it out. At the least it will put things in perspective.
-Bill Simmons (espn's sports guy) and co. have started a new website...its basically a dream team of pop culture columnists.
-Thinking running a marathon? This is a great place to start.
-Who doesn't love mullets and hockey?
-As a crazy Yanks fan this makes me kinda sad
-See what happens when you publicly expose your privates? Even on the internet, it makes everyone uncomfortable
-Kinda nice to see when being a celebrity/hot chick, doesn't give you a complete free pass from some very poor decision making
-Glad to see the public didn't take to a show glorifying teenage sexual activity
I'm off to the Poconos tomorrow for the weekend. I'll drop by again Monday, hopefully with a working donation site. Have a great, safe, and fun weekend!
-Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Tech Issues, Crazy Heat & The Art Of A Playlist
Good news/bad news...The good news is that the donations are going very well so far. After only two days, I'm up over the $300 mark (which for you mathematicians is over 10% of the way to my goal). The bad news is the donation site is having some tech issues. It should be worked out by tomorrow, or Friday at the latest, so stay tuned and I'll let everyone know. A very big thank you to all who have donated so far, it means a tremendous amount.
If you live anywhere east of Michigan and south of Toronto, you know today was quite a hot one. According to my car's somewhat unreliable thermometer, it cracked 100. Since today was an off day from the gym, my buddy Trevor and I decided to play some tennis, and wow...If I was to describe the heat in one word, it would oppressive. Tomorrow is supposed to be pretty scorching as well, however in addition to dudes who grunt a lot, and a dirty locker room, my gym has air conditioning.
One would think if you were planning on spending two hours at the gym, 35-40 songs loaded up on your iPod would be plenty. Just put that bad boy on shuffle and do what you do. One would be wrong. I've found I can run to almost anything, but when it comes to lifting, it better sound like something a UFC fighter would walk out to. Nothing is going to break your lifting stride like listening to the Barenaked Ladies muse about dijon ketchup and kraft dinners. So whether you enjoy the hip-hop, death metal or the pop melodies a 14 year old would dig, load your playlists wisely. Nobody likes to be surprised with a dumbbell over their head.
If you live anywhere east of Michigan and south of Toronto, you know today was quite a hot one. According to my car's somewhat unreliable thermometer, it cracked 100. Since today was an off day from the gym, my buddy Trevor and I decided to play some tennis, and wow...If I was to describe the heat in one word, it would oppressive. Tomorrow is supposed to be pretty scorching as well, however in addition to dudes who grunt a lot, and a dirty locker room, my gym has air conditioning.
One would think if you were planning on spending two hours at the gym, 35-40 songs loaded up on your iPod would be plenty. Just put that bad boy on shuffle and do what you do. One would be wrong. I've found I can run to almost anything, but when it comes to lifting, it better sound like something a UFC fighter would walk out to. Nothing is going to break your lifting stride like listening to the Barenaked Ladies muse about dijon ketchup and kraft dinners. So whether you enjoy the hip-hop, death metal or the pop melodies a 14 year old would dig, load your playlists wisely. Nobody likes to be surprised with a dumbbell over their head.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
How The Sausage Is Made...
So, I've already had a few questions about what my training will be, diet, etc...I greatly appreciate the interest, and keep whatever questions you may have coming.
As for the training, I did a fair bit of research, and found that most programs are anywhere from 16-18 weeks. I'm a few weeks ahead of that, but I find that should help me, considering some vacations and personal commitments that will interrupt some of the structure of the calendar. I figure I'll start "officially" following a training calendar (I really like this one: http://www.marathontraining.com/marathon/m_sch_2.html)in two weeks. The next couple weeks will be used to get my diet in line and just get in a little better shape. I've never been one to follow a strict diet, but I'm guessing a little more raw veggies, and a fewer chicken fingers is probably a decent place to start. Overall, I've found www.marathontraining.com to be very helpful. They seem like they have a decent answer to almost any question, so if anyone else is getting into a similar activity, I'd check them out.
This weekend, is the Warrior Dash out in the Poconos, PA. I did it last year and it was a blast. Not too difficult, and a good way to get into the season and give me a reason to be in the gym. Here's the course map for those interested (http://www.warriordash.com/register2011_pennsylvania.php)...this year I'll be sure to remember the water is super cold, the end is very muddy, and not to dive into any obstacles head first.
I'm very appreciative of all the support and donations so far, so thanks again. I'll probably have another post after the Dash, but in the meantime, follow me on twitter (mstendardi) for updates that involve significantly less characters.
-Matt
As for the training, I did a fair bit of research, and found that most programs are anywhere from 16-18 weeks. I'm a few weeks ahead of that, but I find that should help me, considering some vacations and personal commitments that will interrupt some of the structure of the calendar. I figure I'll start "officially" following a training calendar (I really like this one: http://www.marathontraining.com/marathon/m_sch_2.html)in two weeks. The next couple weeks will be used to get my diet in line and just get in a little better shape. I've never been one to follow a strict diet, but I'm guessing a little more raw veggies, and a fewer chicken fingers is probably a decent place to start. Overall, I've found www.marathontraining.com to be very helpful. They seem like they have a decent answer to almost any question, so if anyone else is getting into a similar activity, I'd check them out.
This weekend, is the Warrior Dash out in the Poconos, PA. I did it last year and it was a blast. Not too difficult, and a good way to get into the season and give me a reason to be in the gym. Here's the course map for those interested (http://www.warriordash.com/register2011_pennsylvania.php)...this year I'll be sure to remember the water is super cold, the end is very muddy, and not to dive into any obstacles head first.
I'm very appreciative of all the support and donations so far, so thanks again. I'll probably have another post after the Dash, but in the meantime, follow me on twitter (mstendardi) for updates that involve significantly less characters.
-Matt
Monday, June 6, 2011
Week 1 - Post 1 - Here's What's Up...
I'd start with a formal personal introduction, however I seriously doubt that anyone I don't know is going to stumble across the page (at least not yet). I will however, introduce the readers to what is going on with this venture. On November 20th, I will be spending roughly four hours running through the streets of Philadelphia, taking part in my first marathon. Finishing 26.2 miles though is only part of the goal that I will be hoping to complete on this day, as I am also attempting to raise $2620 for Donate Life (notice a trend with the numbers?).
Anyone who knows me well, knows how important this organization is to my family. On June 19th, 2007, my uncle, Michael Kirshbaum, was the recipient of a new liver, and is alive today because of this gift. Sadly, eighteen people pass away each day due to the lack of availability of needed organs. On that note, check out these statistics: http://donatelife.net/understanding-donation/statistics/
And while we're at it, my personal donation page: http://tinyurl.com/4xnw4d2
I'll be making weekly posts (at least) on this blog that will include training updates, random musings, and some guest posts from some family and friends. My buddy Tom ran a marathon recently (he also writes quite a blog: www.hocorising.com) and stated, 'We weren't allowed to use headphones, so the race was spent mostly in my head. I thought about life, my career, my family, Columbia, God, and every Lil Wayne and TI song I could remember the lyrics to.' This scared me a little bit, and thankfully I'll be running with my lifelong friend Andy, who will also be dropping in here from time to time.
A very special advance thank you for all the support, I don't know how I'll make it up to you, but I'll promise to figure something out.
-Matt
twitter.com/mstendardi
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