FLOURISHING FITNESS CHALLENGE!!!

 

Can you believe that it’s almost 2010? 2 more days!!!

I know there are a lot of people who don’t believe in New Years Resolutions and making changes just because we’re “supposed to” at that time.

I don’t believe in making grand resolutions that are impossible to keep. But I do believe in making realistic, attainable goals for yourself. And even though it’s cliché, a whole New Year is front of you happens to be a great time to start making changes.

One of my 2010 goals is to run a half marathon. Ever since running my 10k race back in May, I’ve wanted to take it to the next level.

When Dori mentioned to me that she had entered into the lottery for the New York Half Marathon, I figured I might as well give it a shot.

Another one of my 2010 goals is to have a more consistent exercise schedule.

This is where my Flourishing Fitness Challenge comes in. I am going to try and combine my two goals!

My plan is to follow a basic half marathon training schedule (with a few changes here and there), even if I do not get picked to participate in the NYC Half Marathon.

I like that my workouts will be structured and I like that I will have an end goal in mind. Even if I don’t get into the NYC half mary, I’m sure there are other ones I can sign up for. I followed a training schedule for my 10k, and even though it was tough, I got amazing results from it. I don’t mean weight-loss results, this challenge is not about that, I mean fitness results. I got stronger and my cardio abilities improved drastically.

I know a lot of people have the goal of working out more in the new year, but don’t know exactly where to start, so doing something structured like this may help!

So…THE CHALLENGE

*Before I start; A Disclaimer: I am not a certified fitness instructor or personal trainer. I am simply following a structured training plan. Before starting any weight-loss or fitness program, please consult your doctor or other health care professional**

I will be following the Intermediate Half-Marathon Training Plan from Hal Higdon. 

Here is what it is going to look like:

It’s a little intense for me. So I may make a few changes for myself.

• On Monday I will probably do Yoga as my Stretch and Strength
• On Thursday I may replace my 3m run + Strength with cross-training (an exercise class, spinning, elliptical, a walk or yoga).
• I may also use Monday as rest day should I need it.
• Any other day I feel I need a day off, I will take it.

I am starting this challenge on January 4th. Everyday at the end of my post I will write what I have done towards this challenge to keep myself accountable. Of course, I will also be posting what I am eating to fuel my training and including some YUMMY and Fueling recipes for you as well.

Additionally, one thing that many novice runners fail to do when training is STRETCH! Along with my training, I will also be posting the stretches I do after my workouts. I may also be posting videos of some stretches you can do to prevent injury and increase your flexibility (as a former ballet dancer, I know a fair number ).

If you feel you want to participate in this challenge; you have a couple options:

1) You can follow along with me and do the Intermediate plan.

2) If you do not feel prepared to take on the Intermediate plan you can do the Novice plan.

3) If you are up to the challenge, and have maybe run a half before, you can try out the Advanced plan.

4) You can start things slow by trying a walking plan.

If you do want to participate you can do so informally on your own. OR if you want to keep yourself accountable you can write in the comments section of my blog each day what training you have done.

KEEP THESE THINGS IN MIND:

• You should be sure to read the information Hal puts at the bottom of his training plans.
• You should also keep in mind that what you are eating while training is very important. You have to fuel yourself right!
  Check out this link, this link or this link for some helpful advice on food you should be eating while training.
• Injuries: They happen. Know how to prevent them and treat them.
• You DO NOT have to run a half marathon after this!!! This is just something to keep your workouts structured, and if you feel up to it, prepare you for a race.
• Please partake in this challenge under your own discretion!!!

If you ever have any questions, comments or need some motivation feel free to email me at justflourishing@gmail.com

Are you in?