As I train for the Osaka Marathon next month, I’ve found an unexpected source of motivation, thanks to my niece Tiffany. Tiffany—one of the most tenacious, creative, gritty, and wonderfully open people I know—invited me and other family members to join her on a "Fantasy Hike" in 2025. (The Fantasy Hike app is a fun, year-long virtual challenge that tracks your progress through fictional locations along with others in your group)
At first, I saw it as a fun way to add variety to my marathon training. I typically rely on the Health app on my iPhone and RunKeeper software, which I still use, but adding Fantasy Hike to my training tools brought a fresh and unexpected dynamic.
I didn’t expect the sense of community it would provide and how Tiffany—also known as "Tiff" in our family—would become our group and community leader and my pace-setter. As the instigator and guide for this year-long fantasy walk, she’s helped keep me on track. Even when I am out ahead (I think she takes rest days), I still view her as my pace-setter since she keeps me motivated and focused. Even if I’m ahead of her, her steady presence pushes me to keep going.
And let’s face it, there’s probably a little family competitiveness in play, too, which is happily helpful. I’m probably covering longer distances some days simply because of that happy competitive streak that runs in our family. But this experience has got me thinking about the power of a community and a pace-setter in any journey—whether it’s fitness or life.
So, here are some tips for finding the right pace-setter for your journey and being a good community member:
Finding Your Pace Setter:
Look for consistency, not perfection: Your pace setter doesn’t need to be the fastest or the most advanced. They must show up and keep you going, even on the tough days. A consistent, steady person who keeps you on track is often the best motivator.
Choose someone who challenges you: A good pace setter should push you just enough to improve. They should motivate you to go further, do better, and step out of your comfort zone—but not so much that it becomes discouraging.
Find someone with a similar rhythm: Whether it’s a family member, friend, or colleague, pick someone who aligns with your own pace. Their approach should complement yours, offering encouragement when needed without overwhelming you.
Remember, pace-setters change: It’s okay if your pace-setter changes over time. Sometimes, someone ahead of you in your community will set a pace that inspires you. You may need to help someone behind you at other times, which brings me to the importance of the community and group to which you belong.
Being a Good Community Member:
Cheer for others, no matter the pace: It’s not just about you and your progress. If you see someone else struggling or making small steps forward cheer them on! Being part of a supportive community means encouraging others, whether ahead or behind you.
Offer help without being pushy: Sometimes, the best way to support someone is to be there when needed. Offer advice, a hand, or an encouraging word when the time is right—without overstepping.
Celebrate wins together: Take time to celebrate with your community, whether it’s a significant milestone or a small victory. These moments create connections and remind us that the journey is about our progress together.
Stay engaged and consistent: Just like your pacesetter helps you stay motivated, being an active and engaged community member will keep you committed to your goals while supporting others. Consistency is key!
So, who’s your pace-setter? And who in your community can you cheer on today? The right people can make a huge difference in how far you go, whether ahead of you or behind you. Let’s keep moving forward together!
If you are interested to know about my Osaka Marathon Challenge, click here: https://en.hope.or.jp/events/kansai/osaka-marathon/runners/lowell-sheppard
