Fifty. I was going to turn fifty in May. Over half my life was gone. I'd always been a runner, and in some cases, a runner distancing herself from the inevitable - old age! I'd decided that I needed to do something monumental for the big day - to defy the chronological age - to make myself feel accomplished. I decided I would run a half-marathon. The PF Chang's race in Phoenix.
I had jogged outside and/or inside about 2 to 3 miles daily, and had worn out a former treadmill only because my new puppy ate through the running band. So if I were to accomplish my goal, I needed to make a plan and acquire a new treadmill. My daughter, and accomplice, went with me to search for my instrument to personal stardom.
I had researched extensively online and once feeling somewhat educated, went out to obtain the perfect - affordable - machine. At 23, my daughter (who would later run my half-marathon with me) accompanied me. Together we tested numerous machines and since she was more experienced in 'big gym treadmills' (having a membership to a local gym) she helped me select my Sportsart. It was perfect. Affordable, and it just felt right. I was so excited when it arrived and was set up in my exercise room. I had a friend, who had run numerous marathons, chart out a training schedule on my calendar.
Gradually I had built up to 10 miles - so proud of myself. I was almost there. Then, suddenly, my youngest daughter - one with special needs - became ill. So ill that when she was admitted into the hospital, I truly didn't know if she was ever going to make it out. I lived in her room until every fourth day my husband would come to take over for a day.
Upon arriving home, my only salvation was to run obliviously on my treadmill. I would run and run, releasing my stressful anxiety over my daughter. I ran two 13.1 marathons on my treadmill - the first to know that I could do it. The second because I didn't think that I would get the chance.
Fortunately, my daughter recovered and was released just before the final race. My eldest and I ran happily and proudly our 13.1 miles and if it hadn't been for my trusty Sportsart - it wouldn't have happened. We weren't awarded any trophies nor did we break any record times, but we were jubilant nonetheless.
Fifty has passed me now by two years, but I still relish my treadmill. Running four to six miles daily, it has stood by me, allowing me to run freely while watching my youngest daughter at home. I would recommend it highly to anyone in need of a reliable, affordable trustworthy machine.
-Marian Miller
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