Hi Lori,
I did the Avon Walk here in Chicago in June of 2005. It was a lot of fun! You can choose to do 26.2 miles split over 2 days or do the 39.3 miles (this would be 26.2 the first day, then 13.1 on the second day). You can decide what you want to do as you're plugging away.
I would definitely practice walking increasing distance lengths. this is a must as you don't know how your body is going to react to the long distances. You will also learn what you will want to bring/not bring by doing the practice walks. My friend and I started out at 10 miles, then went up 5 mile increments every couple of weeks or so. We are advanced exercisers, so this was a good place for us to start. During your practice walks, have on shoes that are somewhat broken in, but that don't need replacing because you will probably want to use these on the walk to avoid any unforseen foot ailments (i.e., blisters, etc). Whatever you do, don't wear brand new shoes on the walk...they could do you more harm than good and this alone could ruin the whole experience for you. Do not wear cotton socks...when they are sweaty, they will give you blisters. Go to a running store and ask for socks that will help to wick away the moisture. I wear socks called "Feetures" and they were wonderful. You will want to have the socks on your practice walks too. Make sure you stretch every couple of miles or so, or once an hour. This helped us a lot. Stay hydrated, and take advantage of the snack/hydration stations they have. It will save you from carrying around too much "stuff" in your fanny pack. If you plan on staying in the Wellness Village, make sure one of you if somewhat familiar with setting up a tent...they had some tents set up, but some ladies stole ours and we had to set one up ourselves. Thank goodness my friend is a camper!
That's all I can think of for now. I wish I could do it again...I will be giving birth the time of when it will occur this year in Chicago. Everytime I see the commercials on t.v. for it I am jealous of all those who will participate. It is such a rewarding experience. It will be challenging and you may want to quick, but stick with it because the personal reward is VERY worth it! Best of Luck to you! You let me know if I can be of any further help!
Webbgirl
A man's health can be judged by which he takes two at a time...pills or stairs. - Joan Welsh
