Healthier Me: This Time, I’m In!

So, last year I just couldn’t bring myself to publicly join the 500 Miles in 2010 challenge. I really wanted to, and almost did several times, but I just didn’t have the confidence. I kept seeing other runners put up such big numbers every week and knew I’d be so embarrassed if I didn’t ever achieve the goal of 500 miles (never mind that I only knew just one other participant). But when I actually completed 500 miles (and then some), I really wished I’d joined the group of runners who’d committed to the challenge at the beginning of 2010.

But, lucky for me, I get a second chance. The challenge has been set once again AND there’s a new challenge as well. This year, participants can set the goal to run 500 miles OR workout for 125 hours in 2011 (or you can do both). And, this time, I’m totally in! I signed up for the 125 workout hours challenge (though I am keeping track of my miles as well, just for funsies), and so far I’m doing pretty well. I’m not first, but I’m not last either.

I’m actually so excited that there is a time option this year. Last year, as I was doing my best to get roughly 10 miles of running in each week, I ended up spending less and less time working on strength training. Finding time to workout became a big issue over the summer, as my tutoring hours went way up, and by the time I completed the challenge, I wasn’t doing any strength training at all. I’d given it up so I could get in more miles and make sure I finished the 500 miles challenge. This time, I’m pretty confident that I’ll be able to achieve 125 hours AND 500 miles, but I’ve only joined the hours challenge (just in case).

It feels good to have a goal, and the challenge has been very motivating. Hopefully I’ll continue to feel pushed and inspired as the weeks turn into months.