1. Don’t rush. Start with a simple, achievable goal—say, a 20 to 30-minute run.
2. Run-walk to get started.
3. Don’t forget to breathe!
Some of my favorite books and online resources:
1. Sole Sisters—the best compilation of inspirational stories on women runners
2. Ultra Marathon Man
3. The Complete Book of Running and Fitness
4. The Complete Book of Running for Women
5. Pinayinaction.com (of course!)
6. Thebullrunner.com
And my top tips for running a good race:
1. Arrive early so you have time to go to the bathroom, do stretching and warm up.
2. Don’t ever wear new shoes, or new shorts or new top. Break it in first. Blisters and chapped skin are not fun!
3. Don’t join the “mad rush” at the start.
4. Stick to your plan.
5. Smile and enjoy your race.
Q: What’s your favorite pre-race meal, and favorite mantra when the going gets tough?
CAYETANO: Just a piece of whole wheat bread or rye bread (I bake my own) and cheese. For long races like triathlons or marathons, I’ll have a cheese omelet and whole wheat bread or pancake.
When the going gets tough, I think of George Vilog who trained me almost everyday for the last two years, shouting at me “Mamaya ka na magpahinga,” (You can rest later),” “Bilisan mo! (Hurry up),” “Hinga! (Breathe), and “More!”
Also I think of Ani De Leon, my friend and idol, reminding me to engage my core, stand tall, feel that I have stronger legs and increase my leg speed.
My next race? I just did an Ironman. I’m enjoying my off-season now, not being in “race mode.” But I run and race throughout the year. My goal is to maintain a healthy lifestyle, to be stronger, faster, and to improve my endurance. I always join a few Milo half marathons—as many 10k’s as I can wake up for, and any triathlon and duathlons that fit my schedule.
Will running continue to gain momentum, or will it fall by the wayside like other fads that have caught the fickle Pinay’s fancy?
Until something new comes along that has the ability to get one’s heart racing, promise thinner thighs on pretty much a shoestring budget, and allow for bonding moments, looks like Filipinas will continue to be on the run, so to speak.
