Across Newsletter September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE

Across U-hub TOGETHER WE CARRY ON

Contents Introduction: Marathon Special Issue- 01 Runners Sharing -02 Marathon Running FAQ - 03

Introduction: Marathon Special Issue For the second year in a row, due to COVID-19 restrictions and for the safety of our supporters, participants and volunteers, Across U-hub have had to make some difficult decisions to cancel this year's fundraising gala which helped generate funds to maintain our services, hence we have to rely heavily on direct donations.

Through this event, we would like to reach a fundraising goal of $50,000 and gather at least 50 participants to run together as a community. We humbly ask for your financial support which will contribute directly to the ministry of Across U-hub, so that we can continue our youth services.

Please consider support the runners by donate to Across Uhub: https://raceroster.com/events/2021/48139/2021scotiabank-toronto-waterfront-marathon/fundraisingorganization/30610 If you are interested to Run with Across, please register at: https://acrossuhub.com/events/scotiabank-toronto-waterfrontmarathon-2021/

Runners Sharing Nancy Fok I have been supporting the marathon at Across, participating in the 5k and half marathon for a few years, and have taken part in 5k and 10k at my workplace and with my friends. In the past, I mainly participated to support my friends who wanted to try for the first time. It’s fun for me to be with someone when they accomplish something they’ve never done before.

Last year, I did the virtual relay with my sister and 2 friends. This year, since the event would be over the whole month of October, I wanted to take this opportunity to build consistency in my habits. I believe that getting outside is really healthy for me, not just for stress management, but also beneficial to my emotional and spiritual health.

I use my time outside as a way to decompress and to think.

Registering for the Whole Shebang not only gives some external motivation for me, but having Across friends to hold me accountable, I think, will also help me achieve this stretch goal.

Although this year we’re running individually, Across has found ways for runners to support each other virtually. If you want to make a change in your life, I would suggest picking an activity you enjoy doing and to try it without needing too much commitment. Walking or running may be a good one, because not much equipment or time is needed.

When I don’t have time, but need to go outside to stretch, I would simply walk to the mailbox on my lunch break. Another suggestion is to pair the new habit with another that you currently enjoy. For example, I like to listen to audiobooks, so sometimes I pick one to listen to on my walks. I find that after I make time to get outside, I feel refreshed and relaxed, which makes me want to go out again.

Runners Sharing

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Life is full of highs and lows. When I first signed up for my first halfmarathon, there were many aspects in life that were not in my favour.

Even though there were thoughts about running for the marathon, I was hesitant about signing up. For a person who was not engaged in regular exercises, I did not have the confidence in completing the full race. I was afraid of the idea of maintaining the minimum running speed, the possibility of getting disqualified, and more importantly, the criticism after failure. Eventually I overcame the fears, and had the courage to accept the challenge.

One of the benefits for running with Across-U-Hub is the support system. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were regular practices for runners to prepare for the marathon, and it was amazing to train with people all trying to reach a common goal. The mental support continued during the virtual marathon. There was never a moment I felt alone, and the team was always there to cheer the runners on. The encouragement motivated me and led me into completing the race.

Running helps release dopamine. It is not only making me a healthier person, but it is also changing my mind set, in becoming a happier person. During COVID-19 pandemic, I try to keep my training outdoors whenever possible. The runs let me reconnect with people and the environment around me. While jogging in nature, it helps me calm myself down on a stressful day. I also learned to appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature and you can always discover some fascinating things in every season of the year.

For someone who wants to start running, a good suggestion is to turn the focus away from the results at first. Everyone knows their own ability better than anyone else, and it is okay to take baby steps. You can celebrate the small successes and set achievable goals to lead to bigger accomplishments. Also, remember that you are the best supporter for yourself, as most of the motivation comes from within. After each run, you should give yourself a pat on the back for the job well done!

Winnie Tang

Marathon Running FAQ Running a marathon is not easy, it requires persistence. Below, we have gathered some frequently asked questions that runners have.

They are all answered by the runners from Across U-hub!

Question 1: How do I start running? Any tips?

Answer: You can follow the 5 Great Ways to Start Running!!

Run for a Goal!

Run with Music~ Run with a Friend/Group!

Plan a scenic/favorite route on Google Maps!

Track/Record your Runs!

Question 2: What are some running tips to keep running motivated?

Answer: The 2 Es! Easy - Meaning that most of your runs should be at a light and conversational pace. This means you can talk in full sentences comfortably like you're at a coffee shop without any stress. Test it.

Overtime, running easy is the key to gaining endurance moving up to running longer distances and you don’t feel as fatigued.

Enjoyable - As what most people say, enjoy what you like and everything comes naturally. You have to enjoy the process to continually motivate yourself. For first timers or people that want to get back into running, it may be very difficult but find whatever helps!

Some examples can be running with a friend or group, running to your playlist, picking a scenic or favourite route to run in, and even challenging yourself to run a time trial of 100m or 1k!

Marathon Running FAQ con't Question 3: What is a good running form? Any specific techniques?

Answer: Certain stretches will help benefit key areas, however each runner is different with their height, arm strength, stride rate, cadence, and so forth so there is no one perfect motion. The best motion for you will be the one you're most comfortable NATURALLY.

Question 4: Why is a pair of proper running shoes so important? How to pick the right shoe for running?

Answer: Depending on what running shoe you choose. It is important to stick with the same running shoe you usually train with. Buying a new running shoe usually takes a few weeks to maybe a few months before your body is used to it. It will also cost you money. There are certain running shoes that do more functions than others such as flexibility, comfortability, and speed. If your wondering what good brands to buy for running, there is Saucony, Asics, New Balance, Nike, Mizuno, Adidas, Puma, Reebok, etc.

If the work of Across U-hub has touched you in any way, please consider supporting us through donations. Your financial support will allow us to do more in supporting our youths.