John R. Hoffman is a Professor of Biology, public speaker and a scientist examining the recovery of the nervous system after injury. Since 2006 he has written several unpublished manuscripts and he is currently working on the first Nathaniel Smythe novel and short story collection. He spends his spare time with his family and running.

Training

In the spring of 2010 as my 45th birthday approached, I accepted a bucket list challenge from a friend to complete the November 2010 Philadelphia Marathon.  For the past year and a half, I have adopted a more active lifestyle by consistently running, trying different types of cross-training, and attempting to eat healthier.  In the process, my weight has dropped (when I am running) but crept back up (when I cut back on training). To motivate myself to remain active year round, I will be running a spring marathon and participating in the Presidential Physical Fitness Challenge.  Since starting the challenge in July 2011, I earned the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award and the Gold Presidential Champions Award while training for two marathons. I am no working toward the Platinum Award, but with the need to earn 1,000,000 activity points (roughly calories burned exercising) it may take me a few more years.

Recap of most recent race: 2012 For the love of the kids half marathon

Next event: 2012 Rock ‘n Roll USA Marathon to be held March 17 in Washington DC

Next BIGGER event: 2012 Marine Corps Marathon to be held October 28 in Washington DC