6 January 2008
21 days and counting
Posted by Nick Katsarelas under: Nick Katsarelas .
I still can’t get over Matt Stargardt’s accomplishment of running 365 consecutive days. One thing struck me about his philosophy. He says it’s not a matter of whether you run. Rather, it’s when you schedule your run during the day.
I have a similar, though much more modest, goal: To workout every day. That doesn’t necessarily mean cardio work, though I’m trying to run about five days a week. Mostly, it’s stretching and strength training. My 20-minute regimen starts with jumping jacks to get me warmed up. Then a series of calf, hamstring, and ankle stretches. Pushups (I’m at 41 a day, and will add one a week) and situps. Then some abs, glutes and thigh exercises to support my lower back. And if it’s a running day, that’s how I cap it off.
I’ve taped a chart to a basement wall (hidden behind a door). Fourteen categories, including one for running distance and another for pace. I’ve kept similar charts in the past, but with much less consistency. The streak began Sunday, December 16. It’s encouraging to see one row after another filled with checks or numbers.
December 16 was also the day I started my River Bank training in earnest. That means keeping a separate journal and making better eating choices. So far, I’ve dropped five pounds (this was over the holidays, no less), although I have another nine to go until I reach my pre-broken ankle weight.
So today will be Day 22. In a few minutes, I’ll start my exercises, finish them at the EGR library, and join my buddies for a run around the lake. And I’ll return and fill out the chart.
I used to struggle with a daily decision about whether to exercise. Perhaps it was getting too late in the day, or I was tired, or just plain didn’t feel like it. No more. And it’s because I share Matt’s commitment: It’s not a question of if, but a matter of when.
6 Comments so far...
Bob Estes Says:
6 January 2008 at 8:58 pm.
Nick, Those are some good physical goals. Don’t forget to get some good rest in between the harder workouts. Congrats on the weight loss especially considering it was that time of the year. Happy trails!
Deb Says:
6 January 2008 at 10:44 pm.
I agree on the importance of daily exercise Nick. I schedule it in and find that I’m much better for it. But I also agree with Bob on the importance of rest between hard workouts. I have learned (the hard way), to listen to my body and schedule rest. You’re doing great Nick and I enjoy running with you.
Julie Hurley Says:
7 January 2008 at 11:13 am.
I think that’s a great goal, Nick!! I’m always handy with an excuse for myself, and you’ve helped me fight harder against the urge to keep my rear end planted on the couch.
Shirl Kohl-Martin Says:
7 January 2008 at 12:40 pm.
Nick, Thank you for sharing the chart goal and idea. And you and Matt are both correct and motivating! Fitting exercise into our lives shouldn’t be IF, but WHEN.
Good luck with training…you guys are awesome!
Terry Says:
7 January 2008 at 8:09 pm.
Keep up the great work Nick, your doing awesome.
Terry
spiteful tempo Says:
20 February 2008 at 12:10 pm.
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