Wow, My Daughter Actually Pays Attention!

The other day, Emily surprised me with an email. It was a personality profile that she took for school. I thought it was interesting to see how a test would analyze her answers. After reading it, I felt it was accurate. My biggest concern was that she would lock herself into this personality and use it to blame everything that happens because of a few electronic responses.

I called her and ask, “What do you think of the test?” “Is this who you are?” I really did not give her a chance to answer because I wanted to get to this question. “Emily, do you believe you can change?” Her reply was, “Yes.” That was interesting because she tends to be a drama queen at times blaming the world for her woos and whoas. So I ask, “Why do you believe that?” The next sentences surprised my slightly cynical self.

She says, “Because you changed.” I was totally caught off guard and asked for clarity, “What do you mean?” Emily’s reply, “You run now and don’t keep cans of soda or bags of Doritos in the house anymore.” Leading up to my decision to run, I am probably the last person to be the poster child to health, and I am glad that she noticed the changes in me when I didn’t even realize it myself. I will continue to do my best to lead her and her brothers in making the best choices for health and their future as long as I can.

If I did not sign up for the NYC Marathon 4 and half years ago, I probably would not have had the opportunity to give the gift of running to my kids. Both Zachary and Elijah are part of Sports Center Athletic Training Track & Field Club in St. James. Unfortunately, Zachary is going through some growing pains and has been on the side lines for the past month, and is anxious to out run his peers. Elijah is a little rabbit and is running with kids 2 years older and having a boatload of fun! Emily continues to surprise me when she decides to go for a run. I think she is running to pass a boy’s house that she likes in the neighborhood.

I am still caught off guard when someone acknowledges my running. In fact, I still look around thinking they are congratulating someone next to me. Last month, Irene and I celebrated our 15th Wedding Anniversary, by doing the Country Music Marathon in Nashville, Tennessee. It was suppose to be a “fun run” but I wanted to get State #6 under my belt. I am a lucky guy because she agreed to do the race together! Two weeks later, I took on my 9th Marathon and State #7 in Wilmington, Delaware. Details on both races will be added to my blog at www.runwithnoah.com as I still have 43 more states to run before I am 50!

Lately, many of my friends have been signing up for 5K’s or even signing up for marathons, because of me. Again, I am still surprised to be the person to motivate anyone. I am just a guy going through a mid life crisis. Instead of buying a Porsche, I happen to do marathons instead. I am really humbled that my 2 legs are able to inspire anyone, and if I am able to help someone lose some weight, lower blood pressure, kick the use of BP or cholesterol meds, or do something they never thought they could do before. I am glad that I put a little spark in their step, but it’s really them who deserve the credit.

Well, 4 years later, we are returning to the New York City Marathon for the 43rd running of the 5 boroughs. Again, I have the privilege of giving the gift of running to hundreds of kids. Our Team for Kids fund raising helps kids around the world with opportunities to run, who otherwise have little or no access to regular physical activity. It’s amazing that 1/3 of all children in the United States is obese! Please take a moment to help me reach my goal to give the gift of running to 300 children. Please visit our Personal Donation Page at http://www.runwithtfk.org/Profile/PublicPage/7701

Also if you want to start running your first 5k or even want to do a marathon, give me a call! I really get excited and motivate each time someone tells me that they did a race for the first time!

Have a Great Memorial Day and Bring it!!!
Noah

Spring Forward this Sunday

Here is a reminder to Spring Forward this Sunday March 11, 2012 for Day Light Savings!

An Update of My Weight Loss Journey

Please watch my journey to lose 55 lbs and so far 7 marathons!





I was totally inspired to do a video clip update after watching Roger Wright's Running for My Existence, Ben Does Life and Team Hoyt's Videos!


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Get a Beachbody a Right Out of the Box.

After watching Ironman, again,  he decided to make a suit for himself.  A Beachbody Cardboard Suit!  Now that is the fasted way to get a Beachbody!

St. John the Baptist High School-Run your Turkey Off 4K-2011

It’s been quite some time since I visited my old High School Alma Mater. I drove up to the side parking lot noticing the building looked renovated and updated. The signs were new and inviting, as I walked into the rear entrance. I remembered playing hockey with our feet and using a crushed can as the puck.
Approaching the glass enclosure, I was greeted by Erik, who I started becoming reacquainted again via Facebook. He recently had daughter and lost 30 pounds to keep up with her. His commitment to his family gives me a reminder for me to stay focused on my health as well. We talked about the Sisters who taught us, scared us and of course Inspector Gadget that roamed the halls when we attended.

Then I saw Christine, again through Facebook we reconnected. She’s going to walk this course, and I am looking forward for her to run it next year. A couple of more from the class of 1987, walked in to get their bibs and pretty nice tech shirts.

Linda and Nancy have seemed to round out our running crew from ’87. Both are doing some kind of race and getting more and more alumni to run also. Their last big race was the Diva Half Marathon in October.

The race started at the front of the school. We merged onto Montauk Highway and made a right into the West Islip neighborhood all the way down to the water’s edge. We came to the turnaround point and noticed that we are running an 8:37 pace. Wasn’t expecting to run that fast, but I was doing my best to keep up with Nancy. We headed back north back towards the school, back past the parking lot and onto the football field. It’s been 24 years since I stood on the field. Looks like they put down some artificial turf and the field looked nice and green. A photographer at the finish line snapped the pictures, and we all crossed the line with a great pace.

We gathered ourselves and ate eat some bagels, bananas, apples and clementines. Looking for some SJB souvenirs, we drifted towards the halls towards the school store. On our way, we noticed the new lockers, big enough to hide a tiny freshman. The school store was once filled with textbooks, and now sells SJB merchandise. Gym clothes, shirts, sweats, and ear rings line the shelves now.

Erik, Linda, Nancy and I parted, and made plans to get more alumni to at least show up and future running events especially this one. Some upcoming races that we talked about are the Marine Corp 10K in Arlington, VA, and The Warrior Dash up in Windham, NY! Of course our hometown favorite, the Great Cow Harbor 10K. Hope to see you there!

ING New York City Marathon 2011: Who’s Running?

On the first Sunday of November in 2011, will you be watching from the television the ING NYC Marathon or be in the crowds together with 2 million enthusiastic fans cheering on 45,000 participants, elite athletes, and the following few notables will be towing the line on the Staten Island side of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge;

· Stephanie Abrams-I hope she brings nice weather on Sunday.

· Gbenga Akinnagbe-You’ve seen him act in the Taking of Pelham 123, Numb3rs, The Good Wife, and Nurse Jackie. All for Africa will benefit from his run.

· Nate Appleman-Besides supporting Chipotle’s charity arm, he’s been a contestant on the Next Iron Chef and Chopped: All Stars.

· Joe Bastianich-You’ve might have eaten at his restaurants, Babbo, Becco or Del Posto, sipped his Bastianich wines, and watched him judge on MasterChef.

· Dr. Andy Baldwin-This multitasker is a Triathlete, Humanitarian, and is a good looking MD taking on the marathon for World Vision. Note that he will be running in the Nairobi Marathon in Kenya the week before!

· Richard Blais-This CIA graduate took his skills to the top at Top Chef All-Stars and will be running for Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

· Jennie Finch-The Olympic Softball Gold Medallist will be the last official runner and for every person she passes, Timex will donate $1.00 to New York Road Runners Youth Program.

· Mark Messier-Can this 6-time Stanley Cup Champion run, you bet ya on behalf of two causes, the New York Police & Fire Widows' and the Children's Benefit Fund and the Tomorrows Children's Fund.

· Mýa-North Shore Animal League has benefited from her waltz on Dancing with the Stars, act on television and movies and win Grammy Awards.

· Mario Lopez-Yes, AC Slater is running the NYC Marathon, currently he’s hosting at "Extra" and running for Boy’s and Girl’s Club of America.

· Apolo Ohno-He Dances with the Stars after being a highly decorated U.S. Olympian in the short-track speed skating. Subway’s Jared Fogle challenges Ohno to take on the race for Special Olympics.

· Shonda Schilling-Married to the famous Curt “Bloody Sock” Schilling. She’s a New York Times best-selling author and will be running for Asperger’s Syndrome.

· Paul Sparks-You’ve seen him in Boardwalk Empire as Mickey Doyle and will in a few upcoming movies. He’s running for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

· Ryan Sutter-The First Descents fundraiser found love on Television. He had a short-lived football career before this Colorado Firefighter married Trista Rehn from the Bachelorette. He’s supporting First Descents.

· Christy Turlington Burns-This beautiful supermodel will be running on behalf of Every Mother Counts.

· Michael K. Williams-You’ve seen him in Boardwalk Empire, Brooklyn’s Finest, and the Wire. He’s running for Harlem United.

· Edwin van der Sar-This Future Hall of Fame Manchester United Goalie will be running for Shoe4Africa.

· Veronica Webb-She’s famous for her runway modeling and acting. This time she’s running for Harlem United.

· Ethan Zohn and Jenna Morasca-He won a million on Survivor, but can he survive the Streets of NYC and support Team in Training’s Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

It is great that these celebrities are using their fame to raise awareness for these charities. I’ve been support Team for Kids for about 3 years. There is nothing better than running for yourself. When you couple the race with a worthy cause, it really becomes special!

My Promise to my Kids

Dear Emily, Zachary and Elijah,


I wanted to share with everyone that I know how much I love you. You mean everything to me, and while everything that I do may not be perfect like this letter full of typos and grammatical error, my efforts will be perfect because they come from my heart. By the way, just because I have poor writing skills, it does not mean that you can be sloppy with your writing!

You are connected to other people in a special way, and there no coincidences in life. That is why I am sharing this letter with everyone I know, because we are all connected in some cosimic web. Some connections will be closer and tighter than others, however everyone will have a tug on the web we create, as well as you will tug on their web.

Today, while I was doing an goal setting exercise, we talked about goals. For the past couple of years I’ve been thinking about “To Create a Heathier World for My Kids to Step Into”. However, I needed to be more specific, meaning measurable and has a deadline. So I am clear and ready to update my long term goal.

When I am 100 years old (which means the year 2069), I would made 1 million lives healthier to Create a Healthier World for My Kids to Step Into. Which means in 2 years I need to have touched the lives of about 31,250 Moms, Dads, Brothers, Sisters, Uncles, Aunts, Grandparaents....

Every kid deserves to have their Mom and Dad around for as long as possible. When I look back 3 and a half years ago, thinking that 245 lbs was normal, and occasionally taking my Quinapril or Norvasc for my high blood pressure. Was not okay!

I am so sorry that I was robbing your time with me. The following rare unposed picture was taken at your 9th Birthday, which reveals your spark. Look at your eyes, you have so much to look forward to life and expecting the best that life will provide. How in the world would I not want to be part of your life.

Just remember that you can thank Forest Gump for getting me off my butt (yes, I said butt…) While that got the flywheel to nudge, it you kids as well as Mom that continue to motivate me. Emily, I was surprised that you took the initiative to start doing TurboFire. Zachary, I love the way your run, so effortlessly and your willingness to do a marathon. Elijah, just keep using your big arms to swim, you will be on the Swim Team before you know it.

Also, just know that I motivated other people to get healthier, like Mom, Your Uncles and Aunts, your Grandmothers and Grandfathers. Who would have thought Goong Goong and Ma Ma would belong to a gym! And on occasion your Dad motivated some of his friends and collegues to start taking care of themselves for their families.

I gravitated towards Team Beachbody because their goals is to End the Trend of Obesity is something really important.

Please pay it forward and share this letter with your friends and family so that all of our Kids will Have a Healthier World to Step Into, more important be filled with the people they love.

Pay it Forward!

Love,
Dad

What Exercises to Do If You are Diabetic-Exercises for Diabetics?

In a previous article I wrote about a little about diet and nutrition for Diabetics. I am not an expert with a bunch of degrees and letters behind my last name, but I am a son who is really concerned about the health of my Dad. I do my best to research and explain to my Dad, what he can do to stick around, especially for the Grandkids!

Him being diagnosed with Type II Diabetes is not the worst thing in the world as long as he manages his diet and exercise. So here are some things about exercise and Diabetes. In addition, you should consult your healthcare team to review your exercise requirement to prevent, reverse or manage your diabetes.

When you exercise, your body needs extra energy in the form of glucose (fuel) for the exercising muscles. For quick forms of exercise like a short sprint to catch the elevator or train, your liver can release some glucose. However, as you continue to exercise, your muscles will want to use glucose at approximately 20 times the normal rate, which should lower the blood sugar levels.

Now for intense exercises, your body is being stressed and tells your body to increase the available blood sugar to feed your muscles. Diabetics must check their blood sugar levels to increase or decrease it. If your blood sugar is too high, then you should wait to exercise.

There are plenty of exercises that anyone can do including diabetics. It can be Aerobic or, Resistance/Strength Training. Here are a few examples of aerobic exercises;

· Walking is simple and easy, and for the most of us, it is something that is natural to do. Now for it to be beneficial to combat diabetes, you need to walk a little faster where your heart rate is raised for an extended period of time.

· Running.

· Biking. Spinning is a growing class.

· Swimming. If you can find a pool, you get all of your muscles involved with swimming.

Here are some examples of resistance that will help increase muscle and reduce body fat;

· Walking with simple weights will increase the intensity of the workouts

· Good old fashioned lifting iron. Go light in the beginning!

· Stretching will help with the flexibility.

A great example to get your sweat on are with programs like P90X, which includes a variety of aerobic and resistance training with simple dumbbells or bands. Insanity is another program that is very intense on the cardio and uses your own body for resistance. Turbofire combines different programs to get the results you want.

Tips to stay on track with your exercise program

· Communicate with your healthcare team on where you are with your exercise program to help you manage it.

· Keep track of your sugars and ketones.

· Know how different exercises effect your blood sugar levels.

· Start slow and gradually increase the intensity.

· Schedule to exercise 3 to 4 times per week, with a warm up of 5-10 minutes, workout 30 to 40 minutes and cooldown 5-10 minutes.

· Wear the proper workout gear and shoes.

· Workout with a partner, especially one that has diabetes. Because they understand the importance also.

· Be aware of your body and any injuries that may occur. Don’t be a macho man or woman!

· Hydrate before and after exercise to avoid dehydration.

· Be active all the time, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, park your car at the end of the parking lot, lose the remote control and get up to change the channel (wait, should you be watching TV?). These short minutes add up and burn calories.

Some benefits of being active;

· Activity burns glucose and therefore lower blood sugar

· Increases flexibility making it easier to exercise

· Working out reduces stress

· Being active increases your energy levels

· Exercise increases good cholesterol (HDL) and lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) for a healthier heart

Make your commitment now! So your friend and family will benefit from your commitment to your life! Contact me to get you started on a Fitness or Nutrition Program and/or visit http://www.runwithnoah.com/ or http://www.noahlam.com/ for more information.

                  

Click Here to Order P90X
Click Here to Order Insanity
Click Here to Order TurboFire


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End the Trend of Obesity

Not to long ago the Surgeon General Richard H Carmonda, MD read a testimony before the United States Senate and said, “Because of the increasing rates of obesity, unhealthy eating habits, and physical inactivity, we may see the first generation that will be less healthy and have a shorter life expectancy than their parents.”

One of Michelle Obama’s first initiatives as First Lady was Let’s Move. Let’s Move was developed to solve the epidemic of childhood obesity within a generation. The program focuses on providing parents more information on nutrition and exercise, improve food quality in schools, make healthy foods accessible and affordable for families, and increasing physical education.

While having knowledge is a start and along with making schools a healthier place, that is only the beginning. As adults and parents, we need to set the example for our children. If they see us eating healthy, they will eat healthy. If they see us exercise and be active, they will be active too.

The numbers are staggering
· We spend approximately $150 billion a year treating obesity related illnesses. Can you imagine how cheap health insurance costs would be if that cost were eliminated?
· 2.8 million adults die from the result of being obese or overweight. How many children are left with only a Mom or Dad, instead of both.
· In 2010, nearly 43 million children under the age of five were overweight.

What astonishes me is that obesity is preventable, and we can End the Trend of Obesity. We have to, for our future!

To increase exercise and fitness, I will donate $10.00, to Team for Kids, for every order of the very popular P90X, Insanity, TurboFire, or any Fitness Program found on http://www.noahlam.com/

To have the most nutrition ounce for ounce, any orders of Shakeology – The Healthiest Meal of the Day on Autoship, a donate of $10.00 will also be made to Team for Kids, for every initial order place on http://www.noahlam.com/

Team for Kids provides free or low-cost school and community-based health and fitness programs to children who would otherwise have no access to regular physical activity. Currently, our programs serve nearly 100,000 children each year in more than 400 schools across New York City, the nation, and South Africa. In addition, Team for Kids equips children with the tools they need to become physically fit for life, while also incorporating goal-setting, character-building, and nutrition education.

Our future is so important, please help me End the Trend of Obesity, and I look forward to working with each of you be healthy and making donations on your behalf!

Being a Running Mentor for Team for Kids for the 2011 ING New York City Marathon

Today, I left early from work and picked up the kids from Day Camp. I stood outside the glass dorr and waited for the time to reach 4:00pm for the official release of the children. As I peeked past the glass, I see Zachary sitting on the floor all tired and beat from a busy day of running, swimming and other frolicking. Emily, now a Counselor in Training, was attending to her flock making sure they are kept entertained as they waited to their parents or grandparents. Elijah was hidden by the wall, so I just stood there for the door to open.


As I walked in, the kid mob meshed with the parent mob. Elijah jumped up, smiled and asked me what was for dinner. He requested chicken wings, and I said, “Okay!” Now, remember I do not eat this all the time!

As soon as we got home, Zachary went to the mailbox and grab what was left by the mailman. With a thud after he dropped the letters on the dining room table and rushed outside to play some more with Elijah. I immediately grabbed the envelope that looked like it had something worth opening.

It’s a dark blue technical running shirt with Mentor Team for Kids in the lime neon green colors. I felt so proud holding that shirt up in the air. Immediately, I thought back to when I chose Team for Kids as my charity of choice for automatic entry to the 2008 New York City Marathon. It was great timing since, I was assigned to 2 wonderful runners with different running skills, both running a full marathon for the first time! 

I am so excited to communicate with them and see how they progress.  Just thinking about the first Sunday of November is so exciting.  This year, Irene and I will get to watch the Elite runners, Raymond (her brother) and 40,000 others run by on the streets of New York City.

So many things have happened over the past 3 and a half years since I decided to change my lifestyle. Numerous miles logged, 5K’s done, many half marathons finished, 5 full marathons completed, and 55lbs lighter.  More importantly, who would have thought, Irene and the 3 kids would have done several running races also.  In addition, Irene and I are P90X grads and Emily is doing TurboFire!

I get a tingle each time a friend said that they did a 5K, started running or go back to the gym.  Running the NYC Marathon with Irene, her sister, her brother and a few close friends was an awesome accomplishment!

Now all of my running has led me to become a RRCA Running and a Team Beachbody Fitness Coach, where I have the opportunity to Create a Healthier Community for my Children to step into. My kids deserve it, and so do all the children in the world.

If you or you know someone who wants to be more fit, lose weight or try something new. Please call me or email me!

Help me pay it forward!

And to my mentorees, Jessica and Valorie!  Keep up the good work!  I am so happy for you!  You are on a journey of a life time!
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Tips to Stay Motivated and Get Back on Track for your Health

It's funny how life sometimes get's in the way of a workout.  So often, we get so busy with work, the spouse, and being a taxi driver for the kids, we push aside our own health to tend to others needs.  So here are a few tips to get you back on track, because without your health, everything else will not happen.


1.  Remember why you started to workout, and think back on how you felt after you did your first round of P90X, ran your first mile, or powerwalked your way around the block.  Tap into your memories of what motivated you in the first place, and write it down.  Most importantly, keep that memo in front of you as a reminder.


2.  Plan your work and work your plan.  Setting up schedule will help you know what to do and when to do it.  Be specific on the workout, like run 5 miles at 10:00 pace.  A calendar is a must!


3.  Sign up for an Event. Having a deadline, can be motivation to get off your butt. Knowing that you have a race on the calendar, means that you need to prepare. Besides, you will most likely be raising money for a good cause.  Now go search for a 5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon, Full Marathon, Swimming Race, Bike Tour, Triathalon, or an Ironman.

4.  The sum is greater than the parts.  Working out with a partner can help you stay accountable and continue on your regime that you set out to do.  Invite others to workout with you for more fun and encouragement.  Joining a group will keep you on track.

5.  While having a certain goal, like losing 10 lbs, wear that size 6 dress, or run a 5K in 25 minutes is great.  Writing your goal down and having a timeline, will improve your chances of success.  

6.  Sleep! It's amazing what enough rest does for your mind and body.  With enough sleep you will perform better than you would without the ZZZZzzzzz's!  So hit the sack, and get recharged!


Obstacles occur when you lose focus!


Please email me other suggestions!







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Don’t Go to the Bathroom and Don’t Fall on Your Face at the New Jersey Half Marathon

This past Sunday, I fumbled in the darkness to lift the ringing receiver and placing it back into its cradle as quickly as possible as to keep the kids in their sleep state at 4:15am. Most likely it disturbed their REM sleep, however none of them paid any attention to the wake up call commotion.

It seems that I have gotten use to prepping for race day, and the nervous butterflies that use to bounce around in my belly have been trained to stay calm. Unceremoniously, I put on my running gear donning my trusty Team for Kids Singlet, and new ASICS Nimbus Running Shoes. Pecked everyone one the cheek, except for Zachary who seemed to be tucked away on the other side of the bed, so I kissed my hand and transferred it to his cheek. Walked out the door and headed down to the lobby and waited for my brother in law, Raymond.

He pulled up in his rented Blue Honda Civic with his fiancé, Frances. Since he did not have a GPS, I lead him in the wrong direction for the first 5 minutes of the trip to the Jersey Shore. Make a mental note, can’t not always rely on GPS to get to where you are going, need to remember past mental maps!  By the way, where is that seat belt!

We arrived at Seven President Park, which was about a ½ mile north from the Start, and did our best to get some additional shut eye, but that did not work. So we just relaxed. It turned out that we parked right next to Coach Vincent Corso from Team for Kids. This person is such an inspiration from weighing 310 in 2006 to running a new personal record in 3 hours and 12 minutes later that afternoon! What a great success story! I will be running that fast soon!

Finally, it was time for Ray and Vinny to depart for their New Jersey Marathon Start. I stayed behind and rested a little more with Frances who was trying to watch a movie of some sorts on her phone. About a half an hour later it was my turn to head to the start as the Full Marathon began heading my way. The lot was adjacent to part of the course, so I walked along and cheered on the runners as they ran towards me. I was fortunate to see Coach Vinny wave and acknowledge me with a thumbs up. I searched for Ray, but I think the crowd engulfed him. I’ll catch him at the end.

As I got closer to the starting line, I saw many people jogging to warm up, so I did the same. Usually the first 2 miles are miserable, because my legs need some warming up. Most races that I have participated in had corrals to separate the masses. With this race, it seemed that you can just jump right in, as long as you had enough space to hop over the fence and squeeze next to the other runners in this fenced off sardine can. Surprisingly, just another 20 feet stood the sandy Jersey Shore, however no spectators were able to cross to that side and cheer on the runners.

I looked for the 2:20 pace runner balloon and got in line where someone had separated the fence. Eventually we started to move forward, with Bruce Springsteen blaring away in the PA system and the Race Announcer did his best to rally this very subdue crowd.

Finally up to a slight jog across the start and off we go! The course wrapped its way around the suburban streets of Long Branch, simple homes with some neighbors out to cheer on the runners. Right before Mile 4, at the very shallow Port Au Peck Bridge, a girl said to her running mate, “I thought this race was suppose to flat.” I thought to myself, she has no idea what hills are. It was a joy to run on a “flat” course!

A little after mile 4, I noticed that I was getting closer to a pace runner. A few minutes later I was very close to be able to see the time 2:15. I was like, “WOW!” that was unexpected. I pulled up next to her and stepped on the gas to pass her. I wondered if I could keep this speed up. The only time I ran this fast previously was during much shorter 5k’s or 4 milers. It felt good and did not look back.

I kept on looking at my Timex Global Trainer, which helped keep my pace under 10:00, and when I notice it above 10:00, I accelerated. The whole time, I kept on saying “make up some time now incase I crash in the later miles”.

Also during this run, I held everything in. I past each porta potty and tree and also repeated, “Do not go, Do not go, Do not go!” Unlike the Disney Marathon, where there were trees everywhere and women would pop out the woods after taking a break and men just stopped and smelled the Orlando air, there were houses and neighbors everywhere.  I am pretty sure that they would not appreciate the extra watering.

At Mile 9, I was getting ready to give my kids some High 5’s and when I reached Mile 10, I kind of gave up looking for them and sped up. Then suddenly I hear, “Noah!” to my left. I looked over my shoulder for my blind spot and headed over. Only Zachary was close enough, and he jumped up like Michael Jordan and reached for my hand. A mother sighed, “Awwwwwww” in the background. I was so happy to see them!

At Mile 12, I started to see spots and the road seemed to be leaning, meaning that I was running on empty or bonking.  I said, "Just don't fall on your face before the finish line!"  and the finish line could not have come faster.  My thoughts about Irene and the kids helped me reach the final yards. I am so looking forward to all of us doing the same race!

As soon as I saw that Green Gate, it put a little more spring in the step and I sprinted to see if I could cross before the clock said 02:17:00. I stopped the looked at my watch showing 02:09:00. The New Jersey Half Marathon official time was 02:08:58.73, a 09:50 pace. My slowest was the last mile at 10:15 and at mile 6 where there was a slight incline from an overpass I wish I started running and doing P90X a lot sooner.  Well, I can say that about alot of things!

Now my next stop will be on my Wedding Anniversary weekend at the end of the month. We will be celebrating at the Vermont City Marathon in Burlington, VT. I will be running and Irene volunteered to give out food to the finishers. I think we will be making a pit stop at Ben and Jerry’s while we are there!

Again I would have to say my favorite big race still goes to the NYC Marathon with its crowds. Just a reminder to everyone, if you want to run the New York City Marathon, run it with Team for Kids and help stop childhood obesity!

Also, if you or know someone that is interested in a running, walking, P90X, getting fit, lose weight, or eat better give me a call!

Bring it!
Noah

Why Bother Being Fit?

Here are some reasons why I run, being fit, do P90X, being a fitness coach, eating right most of the time, and a bunch of other stuff...

• Watch my children graduate
• Watch my children get married
• Hug my wife
• Kiss my wife
• Babysit my eventual grandchildren
• Change myself for the better to change the world for the better, as a result my children will step into a better place.
• More to come!

Just signed up for the Steamtown Marathon

Event Name: Steamtown Marathon 2011
Date & Time: October 09, 2011 08:00 AM
Location: Race starts at Forest City High School, Forest City, PA. Finishes in Downtown Scranton, PA.

Lookout Dwight from the Office.  I just signed up for the Steamtown Marathon which finishes in Scranton PA, after my wife has been accusing me of procrastination!

This will be the race that I will test my metal and see if I am a real runner.  The plan is to run a time of 3 hours and 20 minutes to qualify for the Legendary Boston Marathon.

This should be exciting, and Irene is doing the Wineglass Marathon the Sunday before!  Both races are mostly downhill!

Thank goodness for P90X Plyometrics!  Steamtown, I will be ready for you.

Bring it!

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Top Chef Richard Blais-I Willed This

Congratulations to Top Chef Richard Blais.  What touched me was what he said in his exit interview, "I don't want to be cliche.  Where there is a will, there is a way.  I WILLED THIS."

If you put your mind to it, you can do anything!


http://www.bravotv.com/top-chef/season-8/videos/shocked-and-in-disbelief



Here is another success story, and all you need to do is to want it!

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Sometimes You Just Don't Feel Like Doing Anything Except for P90X

Listen to this catchy tune from Bruno Mars' "Lazy Song" and be mello for the rest of the day, especially after doing P90X!  Bring it!

Fastforward to 1:40 for Bruno's Shout Out to P90X





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Team Hoyt-What would you do for your child?

A true story One day a son asks his father: "Daddy, will you run the marathon with me?" The father answers yes and both run their first marathon together. One day, the son asks his father if he wants to run the marathon with him again and the father answers yes. They both run the marathon together again. Then one day the son asks his father: "Daddy, will you run the Ironman with me?" (the Ironman is the toughest...it requires a 4km swim, 180km biking and 42km running). The father says yes again. This all sounds easy...but check this video.







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How to make something great out of nothing?

You swing open your pantry and you think what am I going to eat or make for dinner, as your children repeat there is nothing good to eat! For some writers, like myself, might stare at a white screen waiting for me to start tapping away on the keyboard, and I think to myself what am I going to write now.


Actually, so many things that are good come from nothing, the universe was created from nothing and look at it now, it keeps expanding creating new and wonderful things that are beyond imagination. Before an Iron Chef creates an extraordinary meal, he starts with a blank chalkboard. JK Rowling also started with a blank notepad.

Now to make something good or even great, you must dream. For example, my friend wants to finish an Ironman Competition which is a race of 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride, and then a whole marathon of 26.2 miles of pounding pavement on your feet. My dream is to qualify for the Boston Marathon, where I need to run a qualifying marathon in 3 hours and 20 minutes for my age group. It could be to weigh a certain amount like 120 or 175 or 199. Your dream might be to become financially free or debt free. Whatever it is, you must have that dream, that vision to makes you stop in your tracks, focus, and create that drive that nothing will stop you from accomplishing that goal.
After figuring out your dream, write it down. By writing down your goal, it becomes real. Funny man Jim Carey, wrote a check to himself for $10 million, prior to making it big in movies, and a few years later he deposited that check.
Now make copies of that goal, and tape it to your dashboard, your bathroom mirror, on your desk, and anywhere you need a nudge to get back on track. This will remind you of your “Why.” Anyone passing by might ask you what that is all about, and you can tell them about your goal.
Your dream should be big enough that it’s outside your comfort zone. To make it more manageable, you will need to develop milestone goals that will keep you on track, and you won’t get discouraged. I remember training for my first marathon, and telling my wife that I ran for 10 miles for the first time. There was no way for me to finish a marathon without reaching the 10 miles first. Every great goal worth doing can take time. So think of your goal as your marathon finish line.
You have your final goal and the mini goals that you want to accomplish. What steps are needed to accomplish your feats of success.
• For marathons, you might need to buy a good pair of running shoes, set up a training program, join a gym, hire a personal trainer, hire a coach, buy a map, buy some moisture wicking clothes.
• For a fund raiser, you might need to get permits, print flyers, hire crowd control, find avenue.
• For a new business, you might need to get financial funding, find a location, hire people.

Basically you need a plan, and work that plan that lays out as much detail with a timeline of getting those tasks done.
Also be specific with your goal, for example, I will finish the Steamtown Marathon on October 9, 2011 in 3 hours and 20 minutes, or I will weigh 170 lbs on April 17, 2011 at 12 pm. Being specific creates clarity and is measurable. Either you reach it or you don’t.
Share your goal with your friends and family. This will hold you accountable for your actions, and helps you stay focused on what you want to accomplish. It’s amazing to get an email of encouragement.
After all that, you really made something good and it all started from nothing! Keep up the great work.

Click here to learn more about an opportunity to become physically and financially fit.

It's because of Team for Kids that I just finished my 4th Marathon!

If there is one marathon you plan on doing, make it the ING New York City Marathon.  Make it even more special by running for a cause like Team for Kids, whose mission is to end Childhood Obesity
Watch the video and be inspired!

It's Hip to be Healthy and Fit in the New Year



Jonathan Congdon, President of Beachbody

 Choosing to be healthy for your is a very popular New Year's Resolution that will completely transform yourself when done thoughtfully planned out.  You will be amazed by the number of people you will also inspire when you make the change to be fit.

• Keep that fire burning by writing down your reasons, your Why, to be healthly and fit, for example
• Be around longer for the kids
• Be able to hug the kids
• Be around longer for your spouse
• Be able to keep up with the kids
• Be a good role model for your children
• Fit in that swimsuit
• Look better, trimmer, or hotter
• Enjoy a higher level of energy
• Have a lower blood pressure
• Have a lower cholesterol 
• Have a specific Goal that identify's your success, for example
• Reduction in 3 dress sizes of pant sizes
• Reduction of weight by 25%
• Reduction of body fat by 10%
• Reduction of blood pressure by 15%
• Reduction of bad cholestorol by 20%
• Increase eating more vegetables 3 days per week
• Walk up the stairs instead of taking the elevator or escalator
• Finishing a 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon
• Have a Timeline, for example
• By your birthday
• On a specific date
• Signing up for a race provides a definitive date
• With your Why(s), Goals and Timeline in hand, be mindful of how you choose your words
• You want to be moving towards the goal and good habits, rather than running away from a bad habit.  For example
• I am quiting smoking vs I am breathing cleaner air
• I am going to lose 25 lbs vs I will be 175 lbs
• Create your Exercise Roadmap to reach your Goals within your Timeline
• Consult your healthcare team to determine the types of exercise program that will work for you
• Some may respond positively with a gradual increase in activity, while some make jump in the deepend.  Just make sure you avoid injury by overdoing any exercises, remember being healthy is a lifelong lifestyle
• Get a buddy to walk, run or workout with
• If you decide on running a marathon, you can find a running plan that will map out how much you should run each day.  Click here to purchase a running plan
• Working out with an exercise program. Team Beachbody's P90X has been very effective for thousands of people for many years. Click here to learn more about P90X
• You can find the right workout for yourself with Team Beachbody
• Create your Eating Roadmap to reach your Goals within your Timeline
• Consult with your healthcare team or a dietician to help you with your food intake
• Drink plenty of water.  The recommended daily water intake is at least 6-8 glasses
• Many people respond positively with small changes like replacing a cookie with a fruit, or switching a can of soda for a bottle of water
• Replace process foods with real food, like apples or carrots
• Plan out your meals that will meet your caloric requirements.  Click here to a meal planner.
• Remember is usually takes time to develop new habits, usually about 12 weeks to solidify the new habit

Subscribe to Run with Noah to stay motivated on your Health Journey and to transform your life for the better, and I will help you get great results.  Sign up here for a free membership to Be Fit!