Running on Teamwork

From helping cardiac patients regain confidence to crossing their own finish line, exercise physiologists Riley Dunphy and Maeve Crehan at Falmouth Hospital practice what they preach by training for and running their first half marathon together.

When Riley Dunphy and Maeve Crehan crossed the finish line at the Marblehead Half Marathon this spring, it marked more than just completing 13.1 miles.

For the two exercise physiologists in the cardiac rehabilitation program at Falmouth Hospital, the race reflected months of accountability, encouragement and teamwork — the same qualities they bring to patients every day at Cape Cod Healthcare.

“We challenge our patients to do something hard every day,” said Riley during a recent interview in the cardiac rehab gym at Falmouth Hospital. “It was time that we do something hard.”

Training through the winter

Riley and Maeve in the cardiac rehab gym at Falmouth Hospital.

The idea started simply enough during the winter when Riley set her sights on training for a half marathon. Both have athletic backgrounds in hockey and soccer, and Maeve had previously run the Falmouth Road Race several times. Once college ended, so did sports. They both missed the structure and motivation that comes with training for a goal.

“It was a tough winter,” said Maeve. “Having something to work toward really helped.”

Although the pair followed the same 13-week training plan, they rarely ran side-by-side because of conflicting schedules. Instead, they checked in daily, shared workouts on Strava and constantly encouraged each other.

“Every day it was, ‘How was your run yesterday?’ or ‘What are you running today?’” said Maeve. “That accountability and motivation really helped.”

Training through a snowy New England winter came with challenges. Riley avoided the treadmill whenever possible, opting to run outdoors along the Cape Cod Canal or bike path. Maeve spent much of the early training on the treadmill before eventually moving outside for longer runs.

“At the beginning, I struggled to get through two miles,” said Maeve. “Then all of a sudden, we were running 13 and feeling great.”

For anyone considering a fitness goal of their own, both women stress the importance of patience, consistency and support.

“Start low,” advised Maeve. “Don’t think about 13 miles at the beginning. That will come.”

“Consistency over intensity,” added Riley. “Find workouts you enjoy and people who motivate you. Having a buddy makes a huge difference.”

Helping patients rebuild strength and confidence

Maeve and Riley (in front) are all smiles during the Marblehead Half Marathon.

The experience reinforced many of the same lessons they teach patients inside the cardiac rehabilitation program at Falmouth Hospital.

Maeve and Riley work with patients recovering from heart attacks, heart surgery and other cardiac events. Through monitored exercise programs, education and support, they help patients safely rebuild strength, endurance and confidence after major health setbacks.

Patients participate in individualized exercise plans that include cardio equipment, strength training, stretching and education on healthy lifestyle habits such as nutrition and stress management.

“So many patients are scared,” said Maeve. “They don’t think they can exercise again or they’re afraid something will happen. We help show them that they can do it safely.”

Their personal commitment to fitness also helps build trust with patients.

“We practice what we preach,” said Maeve. “We’re not just telling people to exercise, we’re doing it, too.”

The team mentality seems to work well for the cardiac rehab patients as well. After graduating from the 36 classes in the monitored program, many patients elect to stay and continue exercising with their groups in a maintenance program. This program is run more like a gym with health care supervision, and the bonds that patients form with each other is a motivating feature for them to continue exercising.

The pair said one of the most rewarding parts of their jobs is seeing patients regain confidence over time. “They see us consistently for three months,” said Riley. “They get to see their own progress, and we’re there reminding them how well they’re doing.”

Next challenge: The Falmouth Road Race

Now, with one half marathon completed, both are already focused on their next challenge: the Falmouth Road Race in August. Riley will be running the iconic seven-mile race for the first time, while Maeve will be participating for the fourth time. Together, they are also raising money for the American Cancer Society.

“Running the Falmouth Road Race for a purpose makes it even more meaningful,” said Riley.

For Maeve and Riley, their team mentality helped carry them all the way to the finish line, both on race day and every day at work.