What better (or more cliché) time to write about getting back into shape than the first minutes of the New Year? Actually I started guest-writing here 3 weeks ago, so it counts for something more than a short-lived resolution, right?
Things are going well actually. I’m keeping the momentum rolling despite the distraction of the holidays. I was able to go mountain biking twice in the past week, and I plan on going for a New Year’s day ride. It will be crisp out, but I have gear to keep me warm. I think I’m starting to notice a difference when riding– as in, I’m not getting as winded as a month ago after the steep hills. It’s a great feeling!
I’m still doing lunges on days when I don’t ride or otherwise work out. I’m noticing a difference with those too, and I really want to stick with them. Lunges are such an easy way to strengthen a bunch of muscles, especially the ones I use for mountain biking and skiing (quads, hamstrings, and glutes).
Speaking of skiing, I’m scheming to head up north in the next few days, even if I have to battle hordes of vacationers and icy conditions. I’ll take any chance I can get to put on the boards and hurl myself down a mountain. I have a number of plans in the works, for getting my ski days in this year.
Although I didn’t join the Cape Cod Ski Club yet, they’re open to anyone; and I have a local friend who is up for some trips. It’s always nice to have someone to drive up with, since I’m way out on this peninsula. A group of my Rhode Island friends is always up for skiing, as they don’t have kids to hold them back. I’m also hoping to visit some of my cousins who live in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Finding a place to stay is huge, since the skiing itself is expensive enough!
That brings up another big issue that many of us young dads might face– a lot of the best ways to get (and stay) in shape cost money. Of course it’s a worthwhile expenditure, maybe even more important than my Thai food obsession… but certain activities can definitely impact the family budget. Skiing is obvious, but even racquetball costs money.
I’m seriously considering the training facility that one of my friends on the Cape told me about, but cost will probably be a factor with that. In the end, I know I can find enough to do without sacrificing the kids’ college dreams. 🙂 I have all the biking gear I need for now, and once I get some new ski boots I’ll be good to go for another 15 years before updating my equipment!
I know all you runnerds are thinking: “it doesn’t cost anything to run!” but I need to enjoy whatever I do for a workout. I’m much more likely to stick with something if I have fun doing it, and that won’t be the case with running. Everyone is different though, and while you probably get the most bang for your buck (and in less time) with running, I’d rather mountain bike for an hour or ski for a day or play racquetball with friends.
I hope everyone enjoys the day off today, and kicks off the New Year with some motivation to git ‘er done!
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