My
cholesterol is down 16 points from a year ago, down 48 points from my
lifetime high two years ago, and down 7 points from 10 years ago. I'm
running on knees that I didn't think could run anymore. They hurt much
less and work much better! In addition I'm learning how to run without
killing myself or feeling like I'm going to die (which has been my
experience with running since my youth.) It's possible that I'll
retire from the Navy in better shape than at any point in my 24+ year
career. Best of all you've made it possible for me to run with my
daughter as she trains for track and cross country. Thanks!
-John Hinck
I
was referred to Cristin Van Driel in June of 2008. Before that time I
had failed four times on my goal to qualify for the Boston Marathon. My
best time was 3:43 and last year I ran a 4:31. I needed help. To get to
Boston I needed to do a 3:30 ( 47 year old male ). Cristin put a plan
together for me that was designed for my goals and my abilities. She
changed my eating habits and started having me do different types of
runs. Speed work, hill training, tempo, interval and I started working
with a heart rate monitor. Cristin kept me on track and checked in with
me at least once a week and sometimes more. I think the key for me was
she kept me accountable and also made it fun. For the first time I
actually enjoyed running. On October 5th I finished the Lakefront
Marathon in 3:28:16 a PR and with time to spare for a trip to Boston. I
also lost 15 lbs and have never felt better.
-Mike Croal
I began working on running with Cristin in October 2007 when I took a
beginning running class with her. I have been overweight since I was
ten years old and had dreaded gym and all physical activities my entire
life. I have always dreamed of running for exercise knowing that it is
inexpensive and a good way to burn calories but did not have the
motivation or know how to start on my own. When I started with Cristin
I had not been able to run a mile and my only goal was to run a mile.
In December I was able to run a mile and by August of 2008 with Cristin
cheering me on and coaching me every step of the way I was able to
finish a half marathon.
Along
the way Cristin has been a source of constant support and she has the
ability to help me see I can meet my goals and really enjoy the
process. She has a gentle firmness about her that helps me make the
goals I set for myself and she has helped me set more realistic goals
for myself. I am excited to say I now have really experienced a
“runners high” over and over again.
Meeting
and working with Cristin has been an incredibly rewarding experience
and I can not imagine how I could have accomplished so much in so short
a time without her help. She brings together knowledge, patience and
the best in what you would want in a coach.
-Leandrea Lamberton