Who
What
When
Where
WHY??
Good questions.
I asked myself the same thing when my husband, Jared, decided to run the Seattle Marathon last Thanksgiving. The whole thing was decided on a whim, something that our friend Misha schemed up in passing, and the next thing I knew he (and several other gullible suckers) were signed up for 26.2 miles of torture.
Being the decidedly more practical of our pair, I was reluctant. I mean, between three kids and keeping up with work, marriage—all the normal life stuff…how the eff was I going to find time to train? It scared the sh*t out of me and I didn’t want to fail. So, the sensible me compromised by agreeing to run the half-marathon.
The day of the race I was a tad overconfident, with a very excited, very giddy body telling me, “You can do it!” My body was right…at first. I kept up a 7:30 minute pace until mile marker 12.8 and then my body suddenly just quit. NO JOKE. I started skipping, walking backward, side stepping—anything to keep myself going. A bystander cheering on the sidelines saw me struggling and screamed, “Keep moving! Don’t give up!” I couldn’t let myself give in, even though it felt like my body was.
Once I saw the finish line, I tried to imagine myself being supported by otherworldly beings, friends, family—anything to make it in a timely manner. And I did! I finished my first half-marathon in 1 hour and 45 minutes.
I barely had time to bask in the glow of my finish time when a friend, Bostonite and big triathlete said to me, “You could run the Boston marathon with that time.” It sounded crazy. It IS crazy. But a couple of glasses into a bottle of celebratory wine, I guess I started feeling overconfident again. Next thing I knew, I woke up hungover, foggy, and (apparently) very much committed.
And so the insanity begins…
This April, Jared and I will be running the Boston marathon (!!!) to raise money for Dream Big. This incredible charity organization is dedicated to empowering young girls through sports, helping to provide underprivileged female athletes with all the equipment and fees they need to participate.
I grew up playing competitive soccer and know firsthand what an incredible role sports can play in your life and am thrilled to have an opportunity to pay it forward. The honor I feel to run for these girls (almost) makes up for the sheer terror I feel of actually having to run 26.2 miles!
I’m definitely going to need some encouragement along the way, so I’m putting together a little health challenge for Now & Gen with workouts, recipes, and maybe even some virtual competitions, in hopes that you’ll join me on this journey and help keep me motivated.
Are you in?!
XO
Gen
52 Comments
Antoinette
I am soooo in!! I started running again 2 weeks ago, I run on the treatmill because we live in Grunthal Manitoba and it is -50 degrees outside.
I don’t think I will ever run a half marathon but then again who knows, I am 50 now and try to get more fit, so for now I am running/speedwalking 3 miles every other day while watching supernatural, so hopefully you will give me a virtual kick in my beehind 😉 to go a bit farther than 3 miles, ALL the best, you can do it…I just KNOW.
Jen
Yes! So in!! I’m a mom of 2 in DESPERATE need of motivation and encouragement…and accountability! You’ve got this!
Jamie
First of all, your time is impressive! I’ve run about 4 half marathons and it takes me about 2 hours and 45 minutes to finish, so great job! I can’t even fathom having a 7:30 minute pace. Second, I think its great you guys are doing this. I look forward to following along on your journey and I know you’ll be able to do it! Good luck!
Bernice
You guys are so inspiring. I love that you are so committed for a great cause.
Trisha Long
You can do it!!!!! I won’t be able to do a marathon but i have committed to starting slow to get me back in shape. I have had a lot of not so fun stuff happen in the last year and my depression has hit me hard the last few months. So i know i need to get back into it for my health. You Got this no matter what!!!!!
Kyleigh Marsden
I have always wanted to run a marathon I thought it would be so cool do such a thing. But I can barely run a mile which is pretty sad so that cools I guess I guess maybe it is because I don’t push my self that hard do something I want to do!! But u guys are doing great keep up the good work
Maddie
I’m so in! I really want to get my body back into being active(I use to have boundless energy as a kid) I miss that and I’d love to support y’all in anyway I can too.
Diane
I’m in! Not for running the marathon, unfortunately. That was a dream of mine in my teens, which was derailed by various injuries. But I’m definitely on board to participate with your journey and cheer you on!
Amy kleeman
I could not be more in! I moved to Austin a month ago to pursue acting. Its terrifying and exhilarating. I knew I needed something else, something to keep me going on the days when all I hear is the voice in my head saying how insane this is.
Then I remembered the seattle marathon. Screw it, if y’all bunch of actors can do it, so can I. I am currently running 3 miles a day, 6 days a week. Just starting and figuring it all out.
Thank you for being an inspiration as a mother, as an actor, as a wife, but most importantly as a badass woman taking on the world.
Elena
I think that’s awesome! I’m in Winnipeg and keep entertaining ideas of running any marathon! Good luck!
JESSICA LOZANO
Hi Gen!! Yes, I’m in!! I have read research that daily green smoothies help triatheletes and marathon runners perform faster and recover quicker. I’ll be training along side you in Tucson, AZ 🙂 Way to go!! Thank you for the inspiration and encouragement!! RUN GEN RUN!!
Jess
Monica
Sounds good to me! I’ve never been much of a runner to be honest, I’m too clumsy and I’m scared to fall but I’ve been doing kickboxing for the past 2 years and had to cancel last week because I can never make classes anymore, I’d love to do something I don’t need a set time or schedule.
Lily
Hey Gen! I’m all in! You inspire me so much; I’ve already lost 35 lbs and have started living a much healthier and happier life thanks to you. Can’t wait for more updates! I wish you and Jared good luck on the marathon!
Robin
BOSTON MARATHON WOOHOO! I am so excited for you and what an incredible charity you are supporting.
I absolutely have no doubt that you can do this. I am getting back into running after a 2 year break and remember all to well my own doubts before my 1st marathon. Little secret, 6 marathons and 29 halfs later, I still get nervous race morning.
I AM IN! I look forward to following along on your journey to 26.2 (donation is on the way too).
You can do this! RUN GEN RUN!
Annette Wilder
You go, girl! Good luck!!!
GiGi Huntley
I ran, er, completed a full marathon in 2010 (The City of Trees). I’ll commit to a healthier me and cheer you on from Boise!
Jordy
I really hope to one day do a marathon. I’m a terrible runner, but I’d love to a smaller one. I know I definitely couldn’t make it through a legit one.
Steph
I am totally in! I’m training for a half marathon currently with my first marathon planned for early December. I’m looking forward to tips and ideas while you are training. Good luck! And remember: a marathon is just a 5K with a 23.1 mile warmup…
Carly
I’d love to join I’m a total cardio bunny! Running a marathon is on my bucket list and even if I don’t run in April I’d love to train virtually with y’all. Can’t wait for what is next on the blog! <3
Daisy May
Hey guys it was so funny to watch you two struggling with the FB chat, I feel better about being terrible at those things. Hey Gen I am from Brazil love soccer love to play with my kids, live in Texas also. It makes me so happy to follow you on Insta, you are fun, I get lots of ideas from you, thanks for sharing.. Best lucky with the marathon.
Elena Alkhimova
Hi, Genevieve! Unfortunately, I can not participate in the marathon. Because I live in another country and because my health does not allow me. But I am so proud that I live at the same time and on the same planet with such wonderful people as you and Jared! You do HUGE things. Love you all forever.
Stephanie
While I can’t join in (chronic pain issues, garbage back, I was struggling pretty badly to walk this weekend- it happens, just part of life around here), I’ll definitely cheer from the sidelines! The Boston Marathon is a big one, and I have no doubt that with your determination and awesome support team, you’ll crush this. GO GEN!!!
Priya
I am so in for it!! In fact taking inspiration from you guys I restarted my cardio after about three months of procrastination. All these months sadly out of fitness and sleep, sleep kept winning in a consistent stride. However, you guys did inspire to me get off my ass and flex some muscles. Hopefully I can pesurade myself to keep doing this everyday.
I had ran a half marathon about two years back, and would love to do a full one soon. Keep up the good job, I am virtually totally with you guys. And will definitely be on a look out for workouts and health tips. I desperately need quick and simple healthy recipes. (Not much of a chef here). Looking forward to hear more from you. Stay awesome.
Natasha McKenzie
The 12.8 mile marker “wall” you hit, can also be called the Bite Me Marker. When I ran my half in San Fran for Leukemia Lymphoma Society, the speaker affectionately called the wall the Bite Me Marker. It has stuck with me and makes me laugh, and even helps be climb over that hurdle. Good luck you to both.
Cj
Although I’m not a runner, yet, I’m in a weight loss challenge and I’m in ..to stay focused and inspired!! As a mom of all boys, I embrace Girl power! Go for it! You got this girl!! Dream big!! Breathe in and breathe out.
Dayna
I am in! I started working out hard 9 months ago, and so far have lost 78 lbs. I just started the Couch to 5k app, to add to my existing fitness schedule. I hope to work through this 8 weeks then move up to the 10k. I am unsure if I could ever do a full marathon, but my dream is to complete the DisneyWorld Star Wars half marathon. That would be right up Jared’s alley if it was a full one no? ? Anyway, youre doing so well, youve got this. Always Keep Fighting!!!!
Kimberly
I am definitely behind you and will absolutely cheer you on..but jogging or training or Boston Marathon..h** i hate running down the stairs to the washer and dryer!! But Go Gen! You got this!
Kathy
Gen! so proud of you and hubby!!! I tracked ALL of ya’ll during Seattle and it was really exciting seeing all the text messages saying where everyone was during the marathon. I have to say seeing the brothers cross the finish line together was the most amazing sight to see. Alright back to you dear heart! I can’t run do to my osteoarthritis in my knees but I am trying to eat more healthy I should say. The gym I was using at my apartment complex has been under construction since November so been up a creek. I am cheering you and your hubby on! ya’ll can do it! I’ll be here in Houston cheering you on!! and I will even track you! too bad there isn’t a way to send ya’ll messages along the way! I’d send messages constantly! lol even though I’m Squirrel Army lol . Team Gen! Team Gen! Team Gen!
Ava S.
I just started training for my first half-marathon…so I’m in! Good luck with your training!
CARLA
I am cheering you two on here from Arkansas. I don’t run but your awesomeness has inspired me through the AKF movement to start walking so I try to walk at least a mile every day and more if possible. This is a big improvement in not doing anything before. I have been depressed because of my weight and because the motivation I feel from you two I have finally started losing weight and haven’t stopped fighting. You are two great role models for today’s youth. Since I can’t participate in the running, I have given a donation for your cause. Good luck with the marathon, I know you and Jared will do fantastic!!!!
Christine Goodley
Your announcement made me think that I should stop just thinking about getting back into running, but actually do it. I’ve been back into it for a few weeks now. I’m generally very active but it’s a whole other kettle of fish to log miles on the treadmill. I live in Northern BC so outdoor running is not an option (though I am snowshoeing lots). I’m making friends with my treadmill and found a free App called ZombiesRun. It’s actually fun and I’m putting way more effort into speed and distance with using that. I’m looking forward to seeing and hearing more about how you guys are training for this event. I know you guys will kill it!
michaela
I am in! You are a legend gen ? I wish you nothing but love and success ????
Kim Jacobs
I’m there with you guys in spirit! I can’t run, I have arthritic hips and am far too unfit. In my younger days I do a couple of 10k runs for charity, so I know the pain you are going through.
My commitment is to support you in any way I can by donating to the cause, and working on getting myself fitter by the time you do your run.
I’m so proud of you both.
Kim
Christine Goodley
I don’t know where my first comment went (hope you don’t get inundated with comments from me :). Your announcement definitely spurred me on to start back running. I had been thinking a lot about getting back into running. For me, it’s been years since I was really seriously committed to running. So a few weeks ago I started back and I think I’m doing great. Of course, I’m stuck on a treadmill becasue I live in the north part of the province of B.C. I did find something fun to kick start my speed and distance goals. There is a free app called ZombiesRun that I have started using. You can upgrade but honestly there is alot of free programs and each runs goals are easy to adjust so I’m doing just fine on the free app. I’m not usually a big fan of Zombie stuff but it’s interesting how you pick up the pace when they are chasing you and you have good music. Best if luck in your training and I look forward to getting some further inspiration from your posts.
Meredith
I am not a marathon runner, but am excited to hear you will be running the best one, the Boston Marathon. That is an amazing event held on Patriots Day. Head over to Concord and check out the re-enactment of the Battle at Old North Bridge, catch a game at Fenway or visit the aquarium. I will be thinking about you on that amazing day. Wishing I was home. Good luck and have an amazing race!
Patti
Hey Gen! I’m totally in, just not for the marathon. I am getting back into my workouts and healthy eating to lose 100 pounds and head away from other possible health problems. Let’s do this! I’ll be cheering you & Jared on from my Primal 7!
Diana
Oh, HELL no!!
Sheila Anderson
My friend is running the Redfish Lake Lodge Half Marathon. You should run that one too. They have a race for the kids too. 🙂
Tammy Andersen
First let me say, I am a first time poster, but I have followed your blog for quite a while. I thought, now was the perfect time to join in.
Congratulations on your up and coming Boston Marathon. What am amazing journey! I am hoping that maybe my words can help you become mentally stronger. Let’s be honest, running a marathon is physically exhausting, but let’s not forget how mentally exhausting it is too.
The one thing I would like you to never say again, is the word failure. This sounds like an impossible task I know, but you will be amazed at how much more confident you will be when you do not say it or think it. This is something that was very hard for me to learn, but it definitely worth the try. Instead of failures, thing of everything as lessons.
I do not know you or your family, but something tells me no matter what happens with this marathon, they will be beyond proud of you. Jared is with you on this journey and I believe he will get as much out of it as you will. Well and let’s not forget you children. I have no doubt in my mind, that no matter what happens at that marathon, those children of yours will love you both and be extremely proud of you. Who knows, maybe they are future marathon runners. The fact is, you and Jared are inspiring them. From what I can see, you are inspiring many of your followers as well.
With that being said…..this is why the word failure can never be said again. Life is hard enough without putting that much pressure on yourself. Those that love you and follow you, will support you no matter what. Even, if something happens and you are not able to finish, look at the lesson that is being taught. Things you may see as a failure or letting people down, to me and many others…..we see it as you are human. Just because you are who you are, does not mean, you are not human.
I have read a couple of times in your blog about the pressures of being successful and having to look a certain way. Do what you need to do because you want to, not because the world of social media says you have too. Be proud of who you are and what you are doing. It’s ok to show you had a bad day. Like I said, those that follow you and love you will never leave. As for everyone else, it really doesn’t matter, what they think. Be confident in yourself and in your training. Lean on those around you when you need a pep talk and support. You and Jared together make a very strong team.
Take a deep breath Gen. You got this! Most importantly, dont forget to Breathe.
Tammy
Pamela Watson
I really admire your commitment to helping others. You two are generous with your time and effort…I will make donations to the cause. Good luck with your training.
Jill
As a Bostonian, I’ll say Boston is no joke, but it’s super inspiring they you guys are doing this. It’ll be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Marathon Monday is a holiday here so all the crazy Bostonians come out in droves to cheer the runners on, so soak it in and I hope it’s not a cold one for you 🙂
Sophie
Hi Gen.
I am going into university this year and hoping to join the soccer team. I was wondering (assuming you have the time, of course) if you could write a post on essential workouts for soccer players or how to condition yourself to play soccer well. Im not really sure where to start in terms of developing a weekly workout schedule. It would mean so much to me and my sister. Good luck with the marathon – your time was impressive btw!
Xx Sophie, 17, Australia
Katrin
Hi Gen and Jared, first of all : your video made my day, I was laughing so much! Those white dots….lol!! I started running about 14 months ago inspired by the #Spnfamily and I really like (I used to rather hate it when I tried it before many years ago). You inspire me again and again, Gen, thank you! When I saw you finish at the Seattle Marathon I couldn’t believe how fresh you looked – just like you could have run on for a lot more miles! I was astonished to read now that you went through some moments where your body kind of quit on you! I am sure you can do the full marathon without any problems! Best of luck!
I am proud of you all and thanks again for the ongoing inspiration, be it health, family, kids and life in general,
Katrin
Lynda
I’m so in. Starting late but just did my first couch to 5k workout!
Trisha Long
you got this girl!!!!!!
Sarah Egan
I’m not much of a runner but I will definitely try! Sending all of the positive thoughts and energy your way. The physical training alone for a marathon is a huge accomplishment – be proud of each step and mile you run! I’m from Boston and I know that the Boston marathon, in particular, is no easy feat – my family has run it and will attest to how challenging yet extremely awarding it is. Good luck!
I’m an Illustration student from Boston and would LOVE to create any sort of painting commemorating this event or anything that you love. You and Jared have made a huge impact on my life and I would love to do something in return! I post a lot of my art and projects at @sarahegan.art on Instagram. Thank you, guys! Love you!
Sarah Egan
I’m not much of a runner but I will definitely try! Sending all of the positive thoughts and energy your way. The physical training alone for a marathon is a huge accomplishment – be proud of each step and mile you run! I’m from Boston and I know that the Boston marathon, in particular, is no easy feat – my family has run it and will attest to how challenging yet extremely rewarding it is. Good luck!
I’m an Illustration student from Boston and would LOVE to create any sort of painting commemorating this event or anything that you love. You and Jared have made a huge impact on my life and I would love to do something in return! I post a lot of my art and projects at @sarahegan.art on Instagram. Thank you, guys! Love you!
Sidney Rowe
Hi Gen!
I have recently started to follow your stories. I am so inspired by Jared and yourself. I have just started to run, super begginer, but it all starts somewhere right? I have two daughters who are my world and I am trying my best to show them how to live a healthy life and stand up for what they believe in. You are so inspiring and I hope to be half the strong woman you are!
~Sid
Amanda C
I am Soooo In!! Ive started my Journey for a Healthier Me and I have a goal just to be able to Run a 5k!! I think what you are raising money for is such a awesome cause as I played Field Hockey when i was in Highschool and It was such a confidence builder for me. You and Jared are an inspiration!! From this Bostonian I will be at the Boston Marathon this year cheering on Everyone as it is such an amazing event!! I will cheer you guys on as you run for a great cause!! Have Fun!!
Talia Viera
I’ll be at the finish line! I’m so excited for you and I can’t wait to see what happens!
Joanna
I am so jealous. I was an avid runner. I did 5k’s & 10k’s quite often. Then I seriously injured & had 5o stop. I was hoping it was temporary but I was told I could never run again, unless I wanted more neck & back surgery. So I wil be cheering you on from my home. I wish we could watch u 2 live. Just you 2 not all the runners. Gen since this is your 1st marathon, I hope your working with a qualified traine. Someone to teach u about proper running & the foods u need to be eating. It’s very important. Plus u need sleep. Your body needs to rest & recharge. Good luck to the Padalecki Two.
Jayne
Hi Gen, I’m in! I’m running a marathon in May, raising money for WWF. It’s in Wales so a long way from Boston but I’ll be training with you in spirit! I’ve ran 10 half marathons but this will be my first full marathon and I’m petrified! Training is so hard! Jjust finding the time to fit it in is difficult enough, so I’m looking forward to reading your blog and any tips you may have.
Good luck!
Jayne