As we gear up for the excitement of the Boston Marathon®, we’re highlighting each of the athletes our team chose to head to Beantown! We received so many heartfelt stories from applicants, and it was excruciatingly difficult to only pick 13. Each story truly inspired us, and we think they’ll inspire you too! While we’re still weeks out from the race, we wanted to share each person’s story before the big day.
iFIT member Melissa Frayer has had the Boston Marathon® in her sights for over a year. After clocking over 800 miles while pregnant during the pandemic, Melissa is ready to step off the treadmill and reach that finish line on Boylston Street!
Melissa’s story
I came close to qualifying on March 1, 2020, one of the last marathons before everything shut down. I had given notice at work the Friday before the race, then got in my own head and missed qualifying. I was so pumped to race again, but then COVID-19 happened. Following this, my husband and I were surprised when I became pregnant. I ran 857 miles while pregnant (most of it on my NordicTrack treadmill!) and while I’m not as fast right now, I’m so strong.
Running has kept me sane while I’ve been pregnant during the pandemic and with a new job! Running the Boston Marathon® with the running community that kept me going during this weird year and a half would feel like a major victory. I think my son would be proud of me too, since he “helped” so much with my training. Doing it with iFIT would be so perfect, considering so many of my miles were on my treadmill in the garage!
Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
Opinions of iFIT members are not necessarily the opinions of iFIT.