With the holiday season upon us, Christmas rapidly approaching, and the clean slate that comes with every New Year, that has lots of folks tacking up those New Year’s resolutions. As with every year, no doubt topping some of those lists of resolutions will be something to the extent of “I’m gonna lose this spare tire and get back into shape!” That resolution is usually exacerbated by the consumption of so many of those tasty holiday goodies. Running and walking are two of the simplest and most accesible ways to accomplish that goal.
A great resolution, but all too often short-lived. Sure, maybe you’ve jogged or walked sporadically every so often, or maybe you’re coming back from a long hiatus, or maybe your intention is to go from couch-potato to health-nut this year. Shortly after the departure of New Year’s day, shoes are purchased, closests are filled with workout attire, maybe you’ve even gone so far as to map out a race calendar for the year. But soon enough the novelty wears off, the motivation fizzles, life gets in the way, you don’t enjoy it, and the excuses keep mounting. Getting in shape is no easy task, and made a bit more difficult by the shorter daylight hours and colder outside temps. So how do you keep that motivation throughout the year rather than simply through the first month?
Every so often here at the store, a customer may saunter in who could be coming back from a long lay-off from their running or walking and say to us “Alright! I haven’t run a step in three years, but I’m racing the Garden of the Gods Ten Miler tomorrow morning and then I’m going to run 80 miles a week for the rest of the year!” Oh dear. Well meaning yes, but certainly no long term plan. Whether you”ve never been particularly active, or you have been but have taken a while away from it, you have to work into it. That applies to running, jogging or walking. Adaptation takes time, and nose-diving straight in is an easy way to end up banged-up and straight back on the couch. So if you’re new to the whole running gig, start with shorter bouts of running interspersed with walking and gradually work your way up over weeks. Before you know it you’ll surprise yourself with the ground you’ll cover.
To some folks, “run” is a four letter word. Fair enough, take a hike. Literally. Colorado Springs is home to the most vast array of beautiful hiking trails in the country no matter the season. Chances are you could walk a different trail every day of the year. You may not even have to leave your own neighborhood. Don’t care for walking? Those same trails make outstanding bike trails. While it may sometimes be tough to get out the door, do it. You won’t regret it. Don’t have much time? Half an hour a few days a week is all it takes. Get a group together, no need to for this to be a solo venture. Why not make it a social one too? Not only that, but you’ll hold each other accountable, your walking partner won’t be happy if you leave them hanging. Take the kids if you have them. If worse comes to worst, get a really high-energy dog, maybe a nice border collie–you’ll either have to get outside or little Rover may have you pulling your hair out.
So if getting fit is one of your resolutions, don’t let it fade into oblivion this year. Stay motivated and stick with it this year by mixing it up and keeping it fun. After all, we live in one of the best places for staying active–especially outdoors. And if you’re honest with yourself, you’ll find there actually aren’t really any legit excuses. Happy Holidays to all!
