Minnesota Woman Logs 12 Hours on Treadmill to Prepare for 100-Mile Race
In an inspiring feat of endurance, Barbara Powell, a dedicated ultra-marathoner from Minnesota, recently completed an intense 12-hour treadmill run at Life Time Edina. This remarkable achievement, accomplished in June, saw her cover a distance of 55 miles, serving as part of her rigorous training regimen for an upcoming 100-mile trail race.
Mindset and Motivation
“To embark on a journey of 100 miles, it’s essential to shift the mindset to view this as a sane pursuit,” Powell expressed. Her training reflects her commitment to not just the physical demands of ultra-running but also the mental resilience it requires. “I have learned to love pushing myself beyond the limits of what my mind initially believes I can achieve.”
A Unique Approach to Training
During her treadmill marathon, Powell maintained constant motion throughout the entire duration, combining running with walking. Importantly, she did not pause even for meals, a strategy designed to prepare her for the grueling conditions expected in the Leadville race in Colorado this August.
Fundraising for a Greater Cause
While the treadmill run was primarily a training exercise, Powell also aimed to raise funds for the Life Time Foundation, which supports various health initiatives. “The foundation aims to promote movement programs and nutritional education, while also focusing on environmental initiatives through tree planting efforts,” she elaborated.
The Mental Game of Ultra-Running
Powell noted that the journey of preparing for such an extensive race is as much about mental strength as it is about physical endurance. “It’s remarkable to see the inner growth that comes from putting in this hard work, and I take immense pride in my progress,” she said.
History at Leadville
This will not be Powell’s first time participating in the Leadville 100; she previously completed the race in an impressive time of 28 hours and 15 minutes. With this year’s event scheduled for August 16, she is eager to improve her past performance.
Sharing Her Journey
In addition to her physical exploits, Powell has shared her journey in a book titled Finding Leadville, which outlines her experiences and insights while training for the race. The book is currently available for order on Amazon.
Training Summary
| Training Activity | Distance Covered | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12-Hour Treadmill Run | 55 miles | 12 hours | Fundraising & Training |
Barbara Powell’s dedication to running and her endeavor to support community health initiatives clearly demonstrate her passion for both personal and social progress.
