Oftentimes when we head to a paved running path, one thing we may see is a crack in the concrete. A crack in the pavement is an imperfection, yet it serves as a perfect starting line. Just like you and me. We may have some cracks in our lives, setbacks as it were. Yet, it is a perfect time to reflect and start again. In this week's blog/podcast we introduce you to Jill Waugh and Lisa Diaz. Two individuals on two different points in their journey.

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Jill Waugh is a very good friend of mine. Jill joined our local 5k training program back in 2017. Jill has gone on to complete 3 events with us. From time to time Jill would suffer a setback with her feet. Jill suffered from plantar fasciitis at one point. Taking care of her aging mother has also taken a toll on her over the years. Jill loves her mother very much and would have it no other way, than for her to be the one there for mother. I was able to catch up with Jill for a few questions. 

Jill Waugh

Jill, do you mind telling everyone how old you are, and where you are from?

JW: “I am 49, originally from New York, now residing in Mays Landing.” 

I know that you joined our group in 2017 to train for a 5k, but were you ever a runner before that?

JW: “Never ran before except running from muggers in New York lol 😂.”

What do you do for a living?

JW: “I am a Registered Nurse. This year will be 30 years.” 

Jill, I know that you have been dealing with a major setback, what was the setback?

JW: “I was active until I was involved in a car accident in August 2019. The kid hit me going 60 MPH. I ended up with whiplash, bicep tendon tear in my right arm, two herniated discs in my neck as well as constant pain. I was in therapy for four months with little improvement.” 

Jill, I am so sorry to hear that. Your post of getting back on the walking path was very motivating to me. Why is it important for you to get back out there and use walking as your form of exercise?

JW: “I can’t run because now my right knee is deteriorating but I can power walk without too much pain. Since the accident, I gained 10 lbs because of my inactivity. So I am determined to lose the 10lbs that I gained. My overall mindset is to get healthier in 2020.” 

What piece of advice would you give someone who has dealt with a setback such as yourself?

JW: “You (Coach) inspire me with your determination and stamina so I utilized your tips and I encourage everyone else to do the same!”

Coach: Thank you so much for sharing that with us Jill.

We all cheer you on and support you on your journey to a healthier you in 2020!

Lisa Diaz, Coach Tadris, Chris Ballard

Meet Lisa Diaz!

What made you decide to train for a 5k?

LD: “I wanted to get back into exercising overall. I found it difficult to stay motivated going to the gym. I saw your flyer and all the smiling faces and thought that it would be fun to train with this group.” 

After responding to the flyer to join our Spring Health Kickoff Meeting, what made you know for sure this was for you? 

LD: “Listening to your presentation, you showed us that it is ok to go at our own pace. The one thing that I didn’t want to happen was to be pushed beyond what I was capable of and feel like a loser.” Your presentation made me feel comfortable to train with you and seeing all the stories was amazing.”

How did it feel to take your first-mile test with me on Sunday? You were intimidated by the size of the track in the beginning. Afterward, you were all smiles. Tell everyone why that was the case, please. 

LD: “I was terrified at first. I’m in my 50’s and I was afraid. Once we got going I was so proud of myself that I was back out there doing it. I was jogging again. I was scared that I wouldn't make it one time around and yet we covered 2 miles of walking and jogging.”

What do you do for a living?

LD: “Human resources at the FAA. A very sedentary job.”

Do you have any children?

LD: “Yes, two adult children (33 an 25 years old) and I am about to have my first grandchild in June.” I just want to say that although it is only the 3rd workout it is getting easier.”

Who inspires you?

LD: “Robin has been a friend of mine since childhood. Robin decided to make healthy changes a few years ago and took up running. She would alway ask me to join her, and I always say that I can never do that. Now here I am in the beginning stages of running again. My friend Robin is so excited and so supportive. Robin will sign up and run my first 5k with me. I can’t wait!”

What is one piece of advice would you give to someone ready to start their journey today?

LD: “Don’t underestimate yourself! Get out here now and show up for yourself!”

 Get Started/Restarted Now

    You may have had your favorite athlete growing up that you would try to imitate. You would try to imitate their swing if your favorite player was a baseball player. You would try to do a fancy lay up or dunks if your favorite player was a basketball player. As we get older who can we try to imitate now? In our older age, we are not trying to be Michael Jordan or Babe Ruth. We are heavier than we were as teenagers. We have busy schedules with families. It is my hope that the answer to the question; Who can you imitate? Are people like Jill Waugh & Lisa Diaz as well as other members that I interview on our podcast. Everyday people like you and me, doing amazing things. Listen to this weeks podcast to hear Hunter Judd’s improvement as well.

New 5k Training Forming Now!

We will be signing up local members at Heritage Park in Absecon on Tuesday & Thursday’s. Join ahead of time by subscribing to our Gold- In Person Group Training Program This program will lead to our Keep Calm And Run To The Best You 5k on May 30th to help support children with disabilities play baseball.

Don't live in NJ?

No problem, join our Online Training Program and get tons of support along with a personal coach to help you tackle any race distance. 

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Thank You - Coach Tadris