New Balance - Training Walk Kick Off

On Saturday, May 14, I attend a Training Walk Kick Off in Alpharetta.  It was sponsored by New Balance.

This was a beginning walk to kick off participant's training for the 3-Day in October.  Special thanks to my boys for tagging along, even though the mall and stores weren't open yet, so sorry!  I really do appreciate their patience and support!!!

The morning started with registration.  During this process, they grouped us in waves so that there would not be large crowds on the streets.  (During the real walk, streets will be blocked of for the walkers.)  I was grouped in the Pink Wave which was first.  Our guide was very energetic and lead us in stretching before we began our 3 mile walk through the mall area.   We were all given directions and the course was marked clear in case we couldn't keep up with the guide. 

During our 3 mile journey I got to meet some of the people participating in the walk and here some of their stories.  Some were walking for the first time, while others had walked before.  Some were survivors, some were walking for loved ones, and some were walking with their company as a team.

It was really great to hear the stories from past participants.  It was also an encouraging and learning experience for me.  They gave me some tips on how to prepare, lots of talk about blisters, and what to expect during the 3-Days.  I am happy to say that I was able to stay with the guide for the entire 3 miles and felt that I could go farther.  I am looking forward to adding more miles this summer. 

When the walk was complete, we were invited into the New Balance Store to discuss socks, shoes, and foot care for the walk.  The store owner nicely gave a discount on all purchases for the 3-Day walkers.  Not only that, a portion of the sales go right back to Susan G. Komen.  New Balance is one of the 3-Day's biggest supporters.

I met with a salesman who measured my feet and did several tests on them using a computer.  It was neat to see my feet on the computer and find out where areas of stress were located and suggested shoes, socks, and inserts were given.  I then tried on several different types and styles of shoes to find the perfect shoe for my foot.  The sales rep said that I really needed to alternate two pairs of shoes during my training and continue during the walk.  Buying new shoes before the walk was not recommended, shoes need to be broken in.  I ended up purchasing two pairs of shoe and socks.

The shoe to the right was the #1 recommended shoe for my foot.  Both pairs that I purchased are really comfortable and I have been alternating them during my walking and my workouts since the purchase.

New Balance gave away several door prizes.  No, I was not lucky enough to win.  They also gave each participant a "goodie bag" for attending the event.  The photo below is my second pair of shoes and my New Balance bag. 

  
I am still so excited about walking the 3-Day and this event just make me that much more excited and ready to participate.  I am looking forward to more training walks and clinics.  In June, I will be attending a "how to pack" clinic.