This spring, 15 runners from the Tufts Marathon Team are running in the Boston Marathon. Their fundraising benefits Friedman School research.
The Tufts Marathon team cheering section greets Tufts runners at Mile 9 of the 128th annual Boston Marathon on April 15, 2024 Alonso Nichols/Tufts University
Running for Nutrition Research
February is American Heart Month, a time to celebrate cardiovascular health. For many in the Tufts University community, it’s also a critical month for Boston Marathon training—a journey marked by perseverance and heart. Among the dedicated runners is Rebecca Dinsmore, a Tufts senior and member of the Tufts Marathon Team, who is raising funds for the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy.
A Boston-area native, Rebecca grew up cheering on marathoners from Coolidge Corner, never imagining that she’d one day join their ranks. Before college, Rebecca’s life was dedicated to a different discipline—training in a pre-professional ballet program. After deciding to pursue an Engineering degree at Tufts, Rebecca discovered a new challenge and outlet: running.
When she joined the Tufts Marathon Team, distance running didn’t come easily. “In my first month, I could barely finish a mile,” she admitted. But with encouragement from teammates and guidance from Coach Don Megerle, she stuck with it and grew stronger. Now, she’s training for her first marathon – a full 26.2 miles.
The work happening at Friedman is changing lives, and I’m proud to contribute to that impact.
“Long-distance running is such a unique experience,” Rebecca said. “You’re meant to maintain a consistent pace and not go out too fast” She’s learned to listen to her body, whether it’s adjusting her pace, managing her heart rate, or knowing when it’s time to refuel.
Running has also given Rebecca a community that’s been a cornerstone of her college experience. “The Tufts Marathon Team became my constant,” she said. “In college, where so much changes year to year, having this community of supportive, driven people has meant the world to me.”
Rebecca is running not only for herself but also to make a difference. She’s raising funds for the Friedman School, inspired by its groundbreaking research on nutrition and health. “The work happening at Friedman is changing lives, and I’m proud to contribute to that impact,” she said.
Her advice to aspiring runners? Stick with it. “In my first month, I was always struggling to keep my pace and feel good after a run,” she said. “Staying consistent and getting past the first month of training is the key to success in long distance running.”
Rebecca’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and heart. Help Rebecca cross the finish line – support her fundraiser and contribute to research that improves lives everywhere.
