Kelley Nash, P.T., D.P.T., CLT plans to tackle the Ironman 70.3
Covering 70.3 miles swimming, cycling, and running takes a serious level of commitment.
Mary Free Bed at Munson Medical Center staff have not only been committed to helping community athletes work through training injuries, but several staff have also been logging the miles to ensure success on Aug. 25 when they will attempt a 1.2 mile swim in West Grand Traverse Bay followed by a 56-mile bike ride through Leelanau County and 13.1 mile run along Boardman Lake.
“As a physical therapist, I think it is very important to practice what I preach to my patients,” said Kelley Nash, P.T., D.P.T., CLT, a physical therapist at Foster Family Community Health Center and competitor. Before her two children arrived, she was doing three Olympic-distance triathlons each summer. Now, she will be back at the starting line with her children cheering her on. “I started doing triathlons for health and physical fitness. I have an excellent group of friends and family who are also athletes and we motivate each other.”
Mary Free Bed at Munson Medical Center Director Julie Ladwig, P.T., MHA, who also is tackling the triathlon, said the organization joined sponsorship of the event because of the message it brings to the community. “I think it is a great partnership between Munson and Mary Free Bed to come together to support an event which focuses on wellness of our community,” she said. “Being active promotes greater health.”
For Traverse City’s Katie LaMott, help from physical therapist and Mary Free Bed at Munson Medical Center Manager Joshua Thorington, P.T., D.P.T., has allowed her to keep her goal for the triathlon alive after suffering knee pain following training throughout the winter.
“I reached out to Josh because he had helped me with a hip injury a few years ago and he taught me some exercises I could do at home and some stretches that helped me heal,” she said. “Josh has been really knowledgeable about giving me tips in terms of training and rest when I need it. He’s also been helpful in talking about nutrition.”
Triathlon experts will be at the YMCA West on Silver Lake Road from 6 - 7 p.m.. on Tuesday to offer some final tips on the course, medical plan, heat safety, and race day strategies. To learn more, call 231-933-9622.
Mary Free Bed at Munson Medial Center volunteers, North Flight EMS, and other Munson Healthcare volunteers will provide medical support for competitors during the event.
Mary Free Bed at Munson Medical Center provides both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services that help patients achieve their personal goals of active, productive, and independent living. Learn more about their services.