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February 09, 2005

i think i might be insane

I'm thinking that I might want to start training toward a mini-triathlon. Not for this year, but maybe next year, if I begin training now. I've been adding some jogging into my walking program and I'm beginning to really kick ass on the elliptical, so I am thinking that it's not entirely beyond me if I work at it.

Plus then I'll have a real fitness goal to work toward, rather than just dropping pounds and clothes sizes; which is, truthfully, the real goal, but I need to make it something more driving and challenging, I think. I tend to get so discouraged when I plateau, so instead of focusing on the weight loss, what if I focus on becoming as fit as possible? And proving it to myself?

Beginning Triathalete makes me think that maybe it's something attainable. There are some great beginning runner programs charted out there. I have access to a pool, treadmill and bike. As the weather gets warmer, there is a 3-mile-around lake to walk/run a block from my house. I have all the tools and I am dedicated to the gym...why not work toward a real goal?

I can't believe that I have written this post. Me, who has always hated exercise and here I am, actually aspiring to become an athlete. I think it's a way to extend my understanding of who I am. I am becoming healthy--I am determined and NOTHING is going to make me lose sight of that. I've been going to the gym faithfully for 10 months straight...a record for me. My body is slowly changing, but it is changing. I had a setback at Christmas (7 lb setback!) but I've quickly found my groove again and am back at the weights that I was doing before I fell off the wagon. I feel funny if I don't make it to the gym on a given day. I sleep better. My cholesterol is near optimum (even though I'm still overweight). I am stronger than I have been in years.

I can do this.

So here it is...a new goal. Closer to a mini-triathlon by my birthday, June 5, 2006.

Posted by crystallyn at February 9, 2005 07:33 PM

Comments

Hey, go for it! It's a great goal.

One event you might want to look at (and you might even want to look at it for this year) is the Danskin Triathlon. It's a mini-event, like you were talking about, and everybody finishes. Sally Edwards, a 16-time Ironman Finisher, is the spokesperson for the triathlon series, which benefits breast cancer research. She finishes last every time. :)

Anyway, something to look into.

Posted by: Sean at February 9, 2005 10:39 PM

If you need someone to root you on from the comfort of a lawn chair on the side of the road you can count me in.

Posted by: Paulette at February 10, 2005 08:45 AM

I say go for it, when I ran mine half marathon in November, I had only ever run a 5k race. I think you could do it at the end of the year this year if you start running now. There are a lot of great training programs out there. I am so proud of you and your new fitness determination. You go girl.

Posted by: Kathy at February 10, 2005 05:54 PM