About a months ago, I posted about my experience running my first NYC Half Marathon. To sum it up, the most I’d ever run prior to that day was 4 miles (and I can count on three fingers how many times that was).   Yet somehow despite all of this I managed to run the 13.1 miles in 2 hours and 11 minutes.  The strange part being I did it without stopping and quite easily.  Or rather the crazy part considering I’m not a runner.

So now for the big question everyone (and I mean every friend, acquaintance, and person I ever worked or went to school with) has been asking me, how did I do it?

First off, I’ll start with:

• Have a positive attitude and some confidence in yourself. Seriously, if I can do it anyone who is physically able probably can.
• Once you’ve established you’re going to try to run it, don’t constantly complain to your friends who are runners that are trying to help you out about how much you hate running and how you’re never going to make it, how you should have never signed up … On a personal note, Fernando, I would like to take this opportunity to say I’m sorry and thank you so much for putting up with me.
• Check out one of those 10-week half-mile schedules.  Google it, you’ll find one for free.  It puts together a whole running plan to keep you on track.  I’ve heard they’re really excellent (especially for beginners).
• Round up moral support.  You have no idea how amazing it feels to be running and all of a sudden see someone you know cheering for you.  It’s like instant energy!

I didn’t do any of the above, but I endorse them.  I should have been more responsible.  The smartest thing I did was to write a post back in January when I first was accepted into the race asking friends and readers for advice.  I was fortunate to receive a lot of great feedback, all of which are the answer the original question.

So here it is, what I attribute to my success to:

• Music – My savor, whether it was Pandora or my iPod, I get too bored to run without music.  Having something with a beat helped keep me going.
• Pace – Find you’re pace and focus on your breathing (try to make it consistent).
• Do not push yourself – and this isn’t just for the day of the race.  When training it’s not about how fast you go, it’s about how long you can go for to build up your endurance (especially in the beginning).
• Join a runners group (thank you North Brooklyn Runners Group) – This is not for everyone.  Especially if you feel like you’re pushing yourself to be at a level that you’re not.  Plus talking while running made me winded.  However, it’s great for motivating yourself to get out and run and also a great opportunity to get advice from your peers.
• Do not curl your toes – Not that most normal people do this, but for some reason I used to and it landed me a foot cramp that lasted for days.
• Diet –I heard everything from stop drinking, to getting certain vitamin supplements to all around eating healthier. I didn’t really change my diet or go out habits, however I did the classic big pasta dinner before the race and the day of woke up 2 hours before and had peanut butter on rice cakes. Worked great for me!
• Be balanced! – This is really important. I was running with a friend and after an embarrassingly short distance I began to cramp on one of my sides.  He told me to take everything out of my pocket.  It was only my knit hat.  As it turned out physiologically, even though the hat barely weighed anything my body was trying to overcompensate for the imbalance of it being on one side and was causing me to run off center, and thus begin cramping.
• Keep in mind a lot of this is mental – The morning of the race I was riding the subway and upon hearing this was my first race (and hardly trained) one marathon patron went on about how a lot of this was mental and to stay focused.  I thought about that a lot and wondered how many times I stopped running because I was truly tired vs. just bored.  Or how if I was really amped up about something I could go miles with no problem but if I was in a bad mood, I was done after one.  I think there’s a lot of truth to this, just some food for thought.
• Don’t stop – this is a personal preference, but I knew that if I stopped and tried to walk, I would not have been able to finish.  Slowing down is fine, but don’t stop.
• Get inspired! – There’s tons of inspiration around you, strangers cheering you on, people running for causes, it’s really very touching.  My race consisted of running through the entire track of Central Park and being able to run in the middle of the street (legally) through Times Square.  I really took it all in and appreciated my surrounding– that helped.
• Get a timer! – If I had any perception of time I would have pushed myself a little harder for an even better time (I thought I was pitter-pattering my way through it and that my time was closer to 3 hours than 2). In fact at one point some older Italian man tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I could take his picture.  So I ran in place while he backtracked and then ran towards me for the shot (that’s how seriously I took it).  Not that I regret the time I spent on that, he was so grateful and excited.  My point is had I even noted my starting time, especially on those finale miles when I knew I was finished the race I could have pushed myself in the end.
• MOST IMPORTANTLY, RUN ON TIRED LEGS!! – I saved the best for last.  This bit of advice probably carries the key on how I ran the half marathon.  About two weeks before the race I was advised to run on tired legs.  Basically I needed to run or walk for at least an hour every night and then wake up early the next morning and do the same thing.  Considering I was so out of shape, that translated to running about 1-1.5 miles every evening (or walking at least 30 minutes) and then waking up (not so early) and doing the same thing.  After a week, I called the advice giver asking for some clarification, ‘does tired legs mean sore legs?’ The answer way yes, but not to a degree that your legs hurt.  By doing this method of running, I was training my legs to learn how to run when they got tired, which is basically what you’re signing up for when running any type of marathon.

The only other thing I will add having gone through all of this is to take it seriously but have fun with it.  If this is something you’ve always wanted to do, but were concerned you had to change you lifestyle too much or are just too scared, you should sign up.  You’ll find a way to make it work for you. I really deprived myself of a lot by not having any confidence in myself (even if it somewhat justified – I should have trained).  I missed out on sharing the experience with a lot of loved ones who wanted to support me as well as really finding out what I was made of.  Even so, I’m too grateful for having had the great experience that I did to really dwell on any of my shortcomings. I did it and it really was one of the best experiences of my life.

Thank you to everyone who read, emailed, called, and gave me advice.  I could not have done this without you.

Growing up in the Boston area, I was so over this song.  However, it’s never felt more appropriate (although I didn’t love that dirty water). Happy Tuesday Everyone!

My answer was most definitely yes! Although I recommended they open with “We need your help” when making these types of phone calls.

My freak out over thinking I had some type of fatal disease lasted all of under a second, yet there are many who aren’t as fortunate with their medical scares –or rather realities.  So at the risk of sounding like a ‘please help’ commercial with Sarah McLachlan playing in the background, please consider donating blood. It’s honestly not that bad especially when you consider how many people you can help with just an hour of your time (the needle’s only in for about 10 minutes).

For more information including eligibility requirements as well as answers to any questions you may have visit www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood

I received an invitation from Norma Kamali to visit her new Wellness Café.  Located at the Norma Kamali flagship store on 56^th Street, I was no stranger to the café considering I used to work around the corner.  Tucked in the back of her store, it was an olive oil haven.  Filled with all types of pastries and snacks (all olive oil based); I was a sucker for the lavender shortbread.

I had heard during New York Fashion Week Norma made some adjustments to her life and was adding more raw and vegan elements into her diet. The café is an extension of Kamaili had thus evolved with her.  I was excited to see the changes to the café, and even though I knew the olive oil base would always prevail, I had a feeling this would be the demise of my beloved shortbread.

As some of you know I’ve been on an oil kick for sometime now, olive oil, macadamia nut oil, argon oil, coconut oil, essential oils . . . you get the point.  What began as something I only used on my body has now fully been integrated onto my face and hair as part of my regiment.  I’ve also been on a recent health kick (or at least trying to be), the downfall of months of traveling and abiding by the ‘there’s no calories on vacation’ rule.  And to that all I can say is it’s all fun and games until bathing suit season.  So perfect timing for this invitation, I would be in good company, and I can use all the inspiration I can get!

So through the entrance, past the mannequins to the back of the store I go.  Aesthetically it’s still very much the original café, however the menu and assortment has drastically changed. I enjoyed listening to Norma as she explained her new health philosophy and how she wanted her café to embody wellness from the inside and out.  Partnering with Organic Avenue, the menu behind the counter featured a variety soups and snacks as well as a juice bar fully stocked. The popcorn she once had is now replaced with raw kale chips, and as for the original pastry options, they have been abandoned and replaced with a new assortment of raw, agave nectar based desserts (which are surprisingly delicious). Being the olive oil connoisseur that she is, she bottled her four favorites appropriately named after their region, Grasse, La Mancha, Provence and Tuscany.  Adding good oil (and lemon when appropriate) to most dishes is an excellent healthy way to add flavor she explained, for when she goes out to eat and looks to enhance her menu options. We then segued into the skincare section.  In addition to her existing line (an olive oil based soap, clay masque, massage oil and liniment), Kamali is now carrying Intelligent Nutrients products by Horst Rechelbacher (the founder of Aveda).  She then presented her other little secret for staying in such great shape, Physique 57, the exercise class she attends regularly for which she decided to integrate into her boutique by selling their workout DVDs and equipment.

The great thing about the café is the wonderful flavor and quality it evokes in all of its products. Plus it makes wellness easy and very accessible (there wasn’t a chemical in sight).  I should also mention Norma Kamali looks fabulous. Too put it bluntly ‘I’ll have what she’s having’.

Visit the Wellness Café at Norma Kamali Flagship store located at 11 W. 56^th Street (between 5^th and 6^th Avenue). For more information visit www.normakamalicollection.com

Flywheel Sports, the new indoor cycling studio founded by former New York Giant’s running back and TV personality, Tiki Barber, and legendary spin instructor Ruth Zuckerman, opens it’s doors next week.  Flywheel will also feature a yoga and exercise studio.

Spin-enthusiasts, cyclists, bicyclists, triathletes, (or anyone interested in trying indoor cycling or just looking to get in shape) get excited! Flywheel offers state of the art equipment and technology.  Each bike features a monitor that tracks riders rpm/cadence, resistance, and energy.  Your individual performance data is then stored and available after every ride under the ‘my performance’ page at www.flywheelsports.com.  This is a great feature for anyone in training or looking to monitor progress.

I was lucky to get a sneak preview of the facilities, and the opportunity to take Ruth Zuckerman’s Fly 45 class for what I can only describe as the ultimate spin experience.   It’s no wonder Ruth has been credited for being part of the force behind the NYC indoor cycling craze; she is amazing.  Zuckerman knows when to motivate you when you’re tired, inspire you when you don’t think you can do another second, and push you to propel your biking to the next level.  Plus, they understand the importance of a great soundtrack to really keep you going.

Flywheel offers a full body workout.  The indoor cycling class not only works your legs but incorporates arm exercises as well.  It’s 45 minutes of pure cardio power. I don’t generally sweat very much, but at one point it was dripping down my face.

Beginners are welcome and encouraged.  Your instructor will help adjust your seat and be sure you stay on course and feel comfortable.  That’s part of the reason I enjoyed the class immensely; it really catered to all levels of experience –but good luck keeping up with Ruth!  I thought I was doing great, until she mentioned her resistance was on 45!  (I was on 20.)  Clearly I have a long way to go, though I am looking forward to the ride.

Classes seat 48, although I was so in the zone and the acoustics were so great, it felt like a one-on-one session.

Dress ready to bike.  Flywheel takes care of the rest (shoes, bottled water, towel, lockers, Wi-Fi). Just strap in and get ready to fly!

Flywheel Sports, 39 West 21st Street, NYC| P: 212.242.9433 | www.flywheelsports.com

Face and hair oils have really made their way into the spotlight over the past few years and where many we’re once apprehensive to apply it to the face and scalp, it’s now readily accepted with proven benefits.  We started with Olive Oil, then Coconut Oil, then the last years major buzz word, the beloved argen seed oil, and now our attention is going to the macadamia nut oil.

Why Macadamia Nut Oil?

Macadamia nut oil works on all hair types to promote a healthy scalp and hair growth.  This lightweight, non-greasy oil absorbs quickly and effortlessly into the hair shaft and skin.  Rich in antioxidants, vitamins and essential fatty acids, including palmitoeic acid (an Omega-7 fatty acid), that is abundant in our body at birth but lose as we age.  When you think about the way your hair ‘used to be’, it’s the palmitoeic acid that you are missing; it also helps prevent wrinkles and dryness.

Macadamia Natural Oil’s line blends all the amazing properties of Macadamia Nut Oil and mixes it with Argen Seed Oil (aka ‘liquid gold’) to make it one of the most restorative hair products I have ever tried.  In the two months that I’ve used the line, my hair is noticeably healthier, softer, shinier, and longer.  The perks of having these two amazing ingredients combined is they improve hair strength, and revive hair that’s been damaged from heat, and over-processing, helps repair follicles, improves elasticity and increase nourishment, extends the life of color treated hair and provides a UV protection against the sun.

Although recommended for all hair types, I would especially recommend it for color-treated, damaged, dry, and frizzy hair.  The amount it cuts down the puff even after the first application is incredible.  It also plays very well with other, I’ve mixed the line with various styling products and it’s only enhanced their application.  This is especially true for sprays and creams I’ve used prior to straightening my hair.

Have I sold you yet?  Here’s an introduction to the MACADAMIA NATURAL OIL™ line:

Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment – My must have out of the entire line.  For an oil, it is incredibly lightweight and non-greasy.  Works great on towel-dried hair to cut down on frizz and protect follicles from the hair dryer. It can also be applied to dry hair to add a nice sheen to make hair look healthy and shiny (but not greasy), as well as offer UV protection.  I used it every day when I was in Hawaii and it protected my hair exquisitely against the sun, making my locks never look dry, while leaving my color intact. It can also be mixed with hair dye to offer a move vivid and longer lasting application.

Price: $6/0.35 oz, $36/1.5 oz

Macadamia Oil Infused Comb – This unique comb is infused with the Macadamia Healing Treated Oil.  It’s amazing! It looks like a regular comb but distributes a light amount of the oil evenly throughout your hair.  I love using this comb while straightening my hair to add some health and shine.

Price: $12

Macadamia Rejuvenating Shampoo – I really like to work this moisturizing shampoo into my scalp and hair to take advantage of all the rich elements the ingredients have to offer.  It leaves my hair silky, frizz-free, and noticeably healthier.

Price: $18/10 oz

Macadamia Nourishing Leave-In Cream – It takes some getting used to, to drop your rinse out conditioner and turn to a leave-in, but my hair got used to it rather quickly.  Apply the leave-in cream to damp hair, and style as usual.  Healthy, moisturized hair awaits you.

Price: $26/10 oz

Macadamia Deep Repair Masque – Honestly, my hair’s been so healthy that I haven’t really needed this product.  At first I used it regularly on my tips and every two weeks for an extra boost, and it worked great to make my hair super soft.   However, the line has done such a great job of restoring my hair that as the months have gone by I haven’t really needed it.  If you’re hair is severely damaged or dry, this is the masque for you.

Price: $28/8.5 oz, $46/16.9 oz

For more information visit www.macadamiahair.com

Affiliation: This product was given to me by a company representative.  I was under no obligation to write this review.

Origins Peppermint, Basil, Rosemary Glass Candle

This candle fills any room with it’s soothing blend of peppermint mixed with basil and rosemary, infusing an amazing smell that helps me decompress after a long day. Available in two sizes, 2″x2″ ($10),  and 3″x 4″ ($30).

Click HERE for more information

Jurlique’s Peppermint Pure Essential Oil

Jurlique’s  Peppermint Pure Essential Oil is great for relieving headaches, sinusitis, congestions, and nausea.  This product works great in a vaporizer or I put a little on my temples and palms, take a few breaths and just inhale the oil to relax. I keep one at the office, and I do not fly without it.

For more information click HERE

Advanced tickets are now available for Charity Water’s annual Charity: Ball.

Click HERE to purchase. Hope to see you there!

What is Charity Water?

Right now, 1.1 billion people on the planet don’t have access to safe, clean drinking water. That’s one in six of us.

Charity: water is a non profit organization bringing clean, safe drinking water to people in developing nations. They give 100% of the money raised to direct project costs, funding sustainable clean water solutions in areas of greatest need. Just $20 can give one person in a developing nation clean water for 20 years.

For more information on Charity Water and how you can get involved, click HERE

Watch video HERE

About TheFunTheory.com:

The site is dedicated to the thought that something as simple as fun is the easiest way to change people’s behavior for the better. Be it for yourself, for the environment, or for something entirely different, the only thing that matters is that it’s change for the better.

To learn more, click HERE