Health & Fitness
I am a big believer in trying to be well-rounded. So I not only believe in stimulating your mind, but also exercising and trying to keep physically fit. I try to exercise 6 days a week, and I enjoy mixing up my exercises to keep things fresh, new, and to constantly keep my body confused. I try to do different exercises every week from lifting weights, to group conditioning and kickboxing classes, to running, swimming, and biking.
Several years back I got into starting to do different types of races. I started training for a 10K and now races have become part of my yearly routine. I think they’re a good goal because they require a time-frame and training schedule that require commitment. So I believe that they provide a level of discipline that is good for your determination, body, and mind.
The first races I did were 10Ks, like the Bolder Boulder. I eventually decided that I wanted to tackle a Marathon, so in 2013 I ran the Colfax Marathon. My training went pretty well, but the amount of time spent, and hours beating your legs on the ground took a bit of a toll. I battled through some minor injuries along the way, and my appreciation for the training process and the people that do it well only grew. In the end I was very happy in successfully finishing the race and reaching my target goal just under 4 hours at 3:58! I’m not sure if or when I may do my next marathon. The amount of time and commitment it takes is significant. I’ve continued doing half marathons every year, and have continued to improve my times. I feel like 10Ks and half-marathons may be my focus for now, as I would like to be a bit faster at these distances.
I’ve also done a handful of “mud” races, with the toughest one being the Spartan Race. What an immensely challenging race! I completed the Spartan Race a few weeks before the Colfax Marathon. To me, the Spartan Race was more difficult because the obstacles and tasks were very difficult, but also the conditions that day were about 43 degrees and windy. Needless to say, being wet and muddy in cold, windy conditions, and then trying to run and complete tasks and obstacles is pretty brutal! I’m glad I was able to make it through though!
My first triathlon was the
Littlefoot Triathlon at the end of the 2014 race season. In 2016 I completed the Boulder Sunrise Olympic Triathlon which was a great race and experience.
My current athletic focus is working on Gymnastic Strength Training at Awaken Adult Gymnastics and focusing on my flexibility and mobility.