One of the most important "benefits" from my endurance lifestyle is when others take it to heart and find something that appeals to them. For two years I have coached junior high and high school youth as they prepare for a sprint distance triathlon. Two weeks ago, my kids completed their first kid's triathlon. And though she didn't officially swim or bike, my wife was right there with our daughter as she raced.
Like the "me" of nearly a decade ago (has it really been that long?), my wife "isn't a runner." I can relate, because a "simple" 1.5 mile run was about all I could handle in 2000. And let's face it, anyone returning to ANY sport after years (decades?) away will often struggle with even the most basic aspects of that sport.
After seeing the fun my wife had at the kid's triathlon, I suggested she could work her way up to and participate in her first sprint triathlon. While she hesitated in committing to that, she did sign up for a local YMCA program called "Walk to Win." It's a great starting place for anyone looking to ease into working out. Her goal, 30 minutes of walking five days a week.
If that sounds familiar, it should. It matches the recommended exercise levels for healthy living.
It is also a great way to become involved in shorter distance endurance events. The journey to 5K starts with those 5-10 minute walks. Misplaced somewhere in all my files is a "Couch to 5K in 30 days" plan. For my wife and anyone else interested, I'll find and post that plan.
For many of us, the finish line will never be 26.2, 50, 100, or 140.6 miles away. Sometimes, 3.1 miles is just enough to promote healthy living and encourage others.
My sister and I represent opposite ends of the same spectrum. She likes races that allow for minimum training and maximum flexibility. Her favorite distance? 5K. Why? As she puts it, "They only cost $10, they're easy to train for, they're over in 30 minutes, and you still get a cool t-shirt." Despite all my attempts to get her to run a half or full marathon with me, she's comfortable with the distances she runs, now.
For me, each accomplishment opens the door to the next challenge. Put another way, I'm crazy and just won't quit. I'll complete a 50-mile race because 26.2 has become something I can run any given day. After 50, who knows.
But the result is the same. My sister is a great example for her kids and others around her. My wife is setting a great example by starting this program, and I'll spend the next however many weeks supporting her efforts.
Maybe I'll even encourage her to start her own blog to give her an opportunity I missed. Documenting the journey from the beginning, regardless of the end.
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