1200

I started my running career on January 1, 2015.  Over that Christmas season I had tipped the scales up to 240 pounds.  I was feeling pretty blah about that, and really wanted to put some good work into my body.

I read a book called Finding Ultra by Rich Roll and was inspired by his similar realization.  After being a competitive swimmer in his younger years, Rich noticed himself struggling to make it up the stairs in his house at 38 years old.  He changed his habits, including going full Plant Power, and has been in great shape, and ultra running shape, ever since.

In May, I will turn 39.  5 years ago, I hoped that by now I would be continuing on a path towards great fitness, with the short term goal of completing a marathon in under 4 hours.  Since then I have ran a lot, including 2 marathons, but my body just wasn't up to the task of breaking 4 hours.

I've enjoyed the schedule of running.  It has given be consistent movement, which has pumped my blood thoroughly through my body, and made me genuinely feel better.  After a run, I come home on the high, and all of the good in me rises to the surface.  And it lasts most of the day.  It really is incredible.

As it has been 5 years of running, I can say that 2019 was my least productive year at it yet.  I've gained back weight, up from 210 to 225.  I have a million lame excuses, including a finicky leg that keeps nagging me, a new home to keep an eye on, plus a new baby to play with. 

It's been a busy year, and if I lie to myself I can justify my off year as being just that.  However, the truth is that I know I can run.  I know that it makes me a better person.  I know it makes me feel good inside and out.

Without a plan, I have no vision.  So this year, my plan is to complete 1200 kilometres of training.  Along with that, I will incorporate some strength training for my legs and core.  I went to physio this past year and they gave me some good exercises to help my achy legs.  Plus, when I run more, my legs feel better, so I'll just go with that strategy and see where it takes me.

So far I am up to 21 k, which is good with me since it's been minus a million for a good 2 weeks now.

Rich Roll is inspiring to me.  He has a podcast where he welcomes guests from all sorts of backgrounds to chat about life, and goodness, and community.  He is also eager to learn.  He's 53 and still going strong!

What or who inspires you?

Thanks for reading