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Shelly Boardman, 51, Flight Attendant, San Ramon, California
Why do you hike and run? My husband and I both love to run and hike. I love the exercise and being outdoors in the fresh air. Plus, I love the view of the mountains! It’s always rewarding to climb an awesome ridge and then check out the views. We usually plan our hikes with our backpacks and lunch, this is my favorite part, enjoying my sandwich on the top of mountain.
How long have you been hiking? I have been running most of my life, I ran track in high school . I started running distance and finished 5 marathons!! I just crave to run. However at 51 years old, the impact has taken a toll on my back so I try and do non-impact when possible, like hiking!! I also started hiking
when I met my husband over 20 years ago. He is from the west coast and we used to camp and hike in our younger days. Now we like to stay in hotels or condos near great hiking trails like Yosemite and Lake Tahoe (our favorites!!)
Do you compete in hiking? Tell us about that. Not hiking, although when a group of 12 of us hiked Mt. Whitney, I did feel the need to keep going! The group was inspiring to each other. When I ran the organized races, I guess you could say that was competing. It was also more like inspiration for me to complete the distance.
Most challenging aspect of hiking and running: Mind over matter, especially when you are tired and hurting. I would say to myself, “Just keep going” there will be a reward at the top or at the finish line. I just love the feeling of self-accomplishment. I feel the same even when I do my 5 or 6 miles or a local hike of only a couple hours.
Most fun aspect of hiking: Being outside in the fresh air and also the views!! Then our picnic lunches on the top.
Most rewarding aspect of hiking: I feel rewarded when I know I finished a goal. Plus, all this exercise keeps my weight in balance, which also makes me feel great!
Who/what inspires you when you’re feeling weak? My husband is who inspires me the most. He exercises regularly and loves the outdoors too!!
Advice for others who’d like to get started: Just put one foot in front of the other and set a goal!
Your must-have equipment for hiking: Hiking poles if a steep hike. Also a good day backpack. We have the backpacks that hold 100 ounces of water, with a tube for drinking. The packs also have a compartment for your food and clothing. Sometimes, there are temperature chances and you may need to have a jacket or shed clothing when it warms up. Sunscreen, bug spray etc.. I hiked in my old running shoes for years, however, I did break down this year and buy a great pair of Merrill’s hiking shoes. Should have done that years ago!
Favorite training song: I love uplifting, feel good music. Example: “Your Life is Now” by John Cougar Mellencamp.
Favorite healthy food: I love fruit! When hiking we usually bring an orange or apple because they also quench your thirst. We love veggies like snap peas and celery, my favorite with lunch when hiking, They also quench your thirst. Nuts and raisins are a must, because they are packed with energy!
Favorite not-so-healthy food: Pizza or Lasagna after a great hike or snow skiing.
Funniest /weirdest/most awkward experience while hiking: Well here it is; I had to use the WAG BAG on Mt. Whitney. If you don’t know what a wag bag is, but it’s a type of waste removal. If you have to go to the bathroom you have to use this bag, and then carry it back down the mountain. It has a chemical pack with it, and you sprinkle that in the bag and close it up to keep it from smelling. Then away you go, as good as new, feeling much lighter footed too!! Just remember to take it out of your back pack before loading up your car and heading home, or you could have a nice surprise later!! The great outdoors, you got to love it. Those of us who exercise outside know this is bound to happen sometimes, and is all part of it.
