Do you remember THE MILE?

Cigna is the presenting sponsor of the 2020 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.

By: Gen Loso, Cigna Wellness Coach

Do you remember running The Mile in middle school and high school? I am sure there were people who looked forward to the competition and the challenge. Unfortunately, I dreaded running The Mile! I don’t know if it was the time guidelines that turned me off or the fact that I was generally out of shape and unprepared and therefore always felt out of breath and insufficient when running among my peers. If my middle-school-self learned what I would do as an adult for fun, to stay fit, to relieve stress, and to challenge myself, she would have been shocked and disgusted. She would never have guessed that I would later sign up, pay money, travel distances, and wake up early to run 26.2 of those miles consecutively.

As you get geared up for the Disney races think about how far you’ve come; not only in your training, but throughout your life as a runner. What would your middle-school-self say about your choice to run the Disney 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, Goofy Challenge, or Dopey Challenge in 2020? What does running do for you? Running clears my head, makes me feel less anxious, and gives me a sense of accomplishment. Running made me appreciate my body for the amazing things that it can accomplish and diminished my focus on its imperfections. Running helps me do my best thinking.

Take this opportunity to prove to your younger self – and your adult self, for that matter – that with perseverance and hard work, you can accomplish your goals. After all, you are headed to the place where dreams come true. Whether you were the kid setting the pace for your class or the kid just trying to get The Mile completed like me, make this race memorable and enjoyable!

Here are a few tips for race day:

• Aim for 30-60 grams of carbohydrates approximately every 45 minutes ¹

• Have a mantra. If you can’t think of one, you can use mine – I am strong. Repeat it when you doubt yourself, are in pain, or want to give up.

• Pace yourself. It is easy to start fast when you are excited and your energy is heightened, but try to pace yourself to have energy for the last and most difficult final stretch of the race.

• Be prepared with items that you used during your training. Stick to your tried and tested clothing, socks, shoes, chafe balm, sunscreen, and energy replacement. Trying something new during the race might not be the best experiment.

• Have fun! Remember you are at Disney surrounded by like-minded people. Take in everything: the sights of the park, those cheering you on, your family who has supported you, the silly signs people made, and all the food and drinks you will have at the end of the race!

The information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for proper medical care provided by a physician. Cigna assumes no responsibility for any circumstances arising out of the use, misuse, interpretation or application of this information. Always consult with your doctor for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing and care recommendations, including prior to undertaking a new diet or exercise program.