For Mariana Maldonado, 2020 was a year of amazing improvements in fitness with no races to test them. Several of her marathons were postponed and cancelled throughout the yeas as she continually altered her training and remained optimistic. It was a learning experience that she is hoping to capitalize on in 2021.  As Mari continued to improve, she started to reach whole new levels of speed and fitness. As exciting as this was, it became hard for her to embrace those new levels. In this episode we dive into matching her confidence with her fitness, juggling an ever-changing schedule, and how she is planning on taking the next step in 2021. Sponsors: OS1st, a three-generation, family-owned company in North Carolina, creates the best running socks and compression bracing products specifically for people with an active lifestyle. OS1st uses Compression Zone Technology with high quality materials to ease pain and help prevent runner’s knee, Plantar Fasciitis, shin splints and more. Used by ultra-runners (Catra Corbett, Sabrina Stanley) and new runners alike. Shop at your local independently owned running or at www.OS1st.com where you can use code RAMBLING for 15% off your first purchase. Spring will be here before you know it, and the best way to get through the winter months of running is to have your next finish line in sight! That’s why Sports Backers is excited to bring you a custom race experience with our first ‘Sports Backers Marathon,’ in Richmond, Virginia, featuring a marathon, half marathon, and 5k. From Friday, March 12th through Sunday, March 14th the experienced team at Sports Backers will take care of the rest, with onsite packet pick up, measured courses, touchless bottle refill stations, timing, and of course great swag! Register now at www.sportsbackers.org and save $10 by using code RAMBLINGRUNNER. Follow Matt: Instagram - @rambling_runner Twitter - @rambling_runner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices