This October, Fitzgerald PT patient Maria Cavero crossed the finish line of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon — one of the world’s most iconic races. Completing 26.2 miles is no small feat, and we couldn’t be prouder to celebrate Maria’s dedication, strength, and perseverance. We caught up with her to learn more about her experience, training, and how physical therapy helped her reach this incredible goal.
Q: What inspired you to run the Chicago Marathon?
Maria: Chicago was my final marathon to become a Six-Star Finisher after completing Boston, NY, Berlin, London and Tokyo marathons. I wanted to finish my six-star journey here in the US., and Chicago was everything I hoped for: welcoming, energetic, and unforgettable from beginning to end.
Q: How did it feel crossing that finish line?
Maria: Everything did hit me at once. The support and encouragement of my Melrose Running Club: all the miles, running though all kinds of weather, the long runs, early runs, late runs after long days; the fundraising; the PRs, setbacks, injuries, physical therapy, Peloton rides, strength training, and so much learning. I felt proud, emotional and incredibly thankful. That was the moment I realized I did it!
Q: What did your training look like leading up to race day?
Maria: The last few weeks before the marathon were all about tapering: lower mileage, good nutrition, and a little extra rest to let my body replenish energy. I swapped some runs for Peloton rides to give my foot a break, and worked with Holly for the finals check-ins.
Q: Did you face any challenges or injuries during training?
Maria: Yes! Early this year, I developed a posterior tibialis injury before my Tokyo marathon. I had shockwave treatment at MGH and then worked closely with Holly to keep the injury under control during my Chicago training. Dry needling isn’t fun, but it really helped. And the most important part was doing the exercises consistently. That made a huge difference.
Q: How did working with Fitzgerald PT support your training or recovery?
Maria: PT was essential for me. I had injuries along the way and working with Holly and the Fitzgerald PT team helped me improve strength and mobility, recover safely, and stay confident, especially during training season. And as Holly always tells me, I have my toolkit now: 20 reps of this, 20 reps of that, core workouts, exercises with bands, without bands, and yes… dry needling when things get too tight!
Q: What’s something you’ve learned about your body through this process?
Maria: I’ve learned that our bodies are very smart. When one thing hurts, another part will try to compensate to keep you moving, which is why it’s so important to strengthen everything, not just one area. I’ve also learned that often the pain is coming from weakness somewhere else. Strength training is key, especially after 40! It keeps us balanced, strong, and able to keep running!
Q: What advice would you give to someone thinking about running their first marathon?
Maria: Start where you are and be patient. Celebrate the small progress along the way. Set your why, because it will carry you on the tough days. Surround yourself with supportive and positive people: training friends, a running club, your PT team. Marathon training is challenging but keep going. Listen to your body and trust the process. The feeling of crossing that finish line is worth every single step.
Q: What’s next for you — another marathon, or some well-deserved rest?
Maria: That’s a tough question! I’m going to say rest… but I’m not telling Holly what race I’m looking at yet 😊
Running a marathon requires determination, preparation, and the right support system. We’re honored to have played a part in Maria Cavero’s journey to the Chicago Marathon finish line. Congratulations, Maria — we’re so proud of you and can’t wait to see where your next race takes you!
