Winter Hurdles

As you may well know, I love to run and cycle and swim. This year I will be running in the Boston Marathon for my first time, which takes place in late April.

I have discovered a great way to stay motivate through the winter time... sign up for a Spring Race! Whether that means a 10K walk/run or a 5K... Maybe a bike race or triathlon... anything that "moves" you to activity in preparation through the winter.

Looking back on past winters, and experiencing the frigid conditions of winter, the pattern is clear... it's much less appealing and easy to avoid staying physically active to the level necessary for good health and a balanced life though the winter months. Who would not want to just stay inside on the couch sipping hot cocoa and watch the cold winter pass by? It's comfortable... that is until the results of hibernation set in... sleepiness, depression, several extra pounds, dreading summer clothing, you name it.

While setting a goal or signing up for the race is not the fix-all, it is the daily choice to stay physically active and knock down or jump over the winter hurdles that prevent us from having a need to start over every spring.
Easier said than done, but every effort is worth it... life is meant for living, and living is most enjoyed in good health, not limited by the season or the condition of our physical state.

THIS YEAR at BOSTON...
My cousin, Stacey, just re-qualified a couple weeks ago, so we're going to run at least a portion of it together... she's an inspiration! My mission president qualified in October and is still considering the race! And... Mom and Dad are heading east as dedicated cheerleaders! Connie is looking into coming as well!