A Crazy Idea...

So I had a wacky idea a few weeks ago.  Attribute it to a budding confidence level with, and newfound appreciation for, distance running.  I decided to register for a marathon: The Shires of Vermont Marathon in May 2011.  More than a half-year away!  Plenty of time to prepare.  At least that’s what I told myself when I slid my registration envelope in the mailbox.

Well, as I sit here on Halloween, with candy, donuts, and other holiday treats around every corner, I wonder – why not start now?

Because Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming, times are crazy, and treats are plentiful.  That’s what the average person would say.

But the above statement validates that this is the BEST time to start.  Instead of getting fit in 2011, why not get fit FOR 2011????  And then, when 2011 comes, get even FITTER!!!

Here’s why I am starting my training plan now:

-  Usually I overdo it at the holidays, turning one day of indulgence into a week’s worth of revisited leftovers.  This will keep me reasonable and accountable.

-  The holidays are stressful.  Exercising will let me carve out some “me” time and lower my stress levels naturally.  Plus, running is a great way to clear your mind and hash out your priorities.

-  And let’s not forget the most important part – a two-month jump-start on my marathon training, allowing me to increment more gradually, lower the risk of injury, and increase my probability for being prepared come May.

My Goals
-  Cross-train like a mad-woman.  I am a HUGE believer that cross-training prevents injury.  I’ll be doing some kind of strength or flexibility training each day.

-  Get in 4 days of running per week, including at least 1 long run.  Increment the length of the long run by 1 mile each week, as my body allows.

-  Eat clean meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
No excuses are acceptable!!!

This mission is live effective Monday, November 1.  Who else wants to join me?  You don’t necessarily have to do a marathon, but consider making the commitment to get fit FOR 2011.  I’ll be posting to this blog regularly with my progress, epiphanies, hurdles, and anything else interesting I encounter along the way.