It truly isn't the goal; but the Path.
The path that leads to the 100 mile hike has so many mini adventures and is littered with personal milestones and achievements. And, I have only been on the path for one month.
Certainly the goal is the ultimate motivation; but it is the small achievements that inspire.
There are 11 of us training for the hike.
I love to witness each success.
There are some of us who left physical activity behind in our youths...Me for sure!
Perhaps I dabbled in a few walks, did some kayaking....but for the most part I would say my physical activity has been dormant now for roughly 35 years...
Bikram Yoga was very helpful in keeping my body stretched and worked on kinks in my neck, shoulders and back. It was something that kept me pretty much pain free.
When my hip troubles began, I was introduced to new physical exercises that targeted the muscles that would help my hip pain.
Then, came the idea of the 100 mile Hike.
Training for this hike, we are working to strengthen our core and overall strength....legs for certain will need lots of conditioning.
In doing this, I am placing myself on the starting line in a comfortable body; but one that is too weak to walk this far....
So, with weak muscles, I head into new activity.
At times it is daunting and I struggle with the concept of the exercise.
It reminds me of my first attempts at Bikram Yoga. Some postures, I could envision my legs lifting....and struggled to will my muscles.
It is the same now with Plank or Push-ups.
And, I was going to say fear.
I don't know if fear is the accurate word for trying and failing.
Mostly, I have found I tried and didn't fail...but succeeded at my level.
Building up endurance is huge and scary. I am starting at a weakened state and in order to keep building, I have to put myself in situations that are taxing.
Being overweight and weak, is a huge disadvantage and yet very inspiring.
The little differences are starting to show.
Less stopping.
Less pain.
More of my body responding.
It has taken us time to find the rhythm of muscle toning.
I am getting acclimated to the outside activities.
To striking out alone across a wind blown field.
and, tagging along with those of better fitness, exploring new places.
In order to do the hike, I need to do what hikers do.
I didn't know how the path would be. I thought it would be an endless struggle.
But there have been many moments of success, joy and personal pride.
I guess you could focus on the hard parts....or focus on each new success.
Like 15 sit-ups without stopping.
Good for Me!
Or, climbing up a hill on snowshoes...not once...but twice.
Of having sore belly muscles because you sweated through a circuit of planks, swats, pushups and lunges. Yay ME!
The path to the goal will have so much fun, camaraderie and new firsts.
The goal will be the icing on the cake.
Each step on the path is building me up.
I am so grateful for the physical path I am now on. It is a huge part that has been asleep far too long. I can't imagine how it will feel to have a body capable of walking 100 miles!
