The constant quest to get in shape

Being fit...

It's a constant battle for me.  If I'm thinking about what I'm doing, or try and develop a routine, I'm instantly repulsed by it because it feels like a chore (and, it is work.  Perhaps I should just get over that fact).  I promise myself every night that in the morning, I will get up, go run or do some sort of exercise.  And then my alarm goes off...and I think to myself, "You know what's more awesome than running?  Sleeping." and roll over and go back to sleep for another hour.

The best shape I have ever been in was when I was 20; I was working for Juniper Mountain Outfitters as a camp counselor and guide for a horse back riding camp.  It was probably the hardest labor I've had to do; lifting 30-60lb saddles, dealing with ornery horses, moving giant bales of hay...I had to do it all to keep my job, and consequently, got in crazy shape.  You'd be surprised how much of your core you use when you ride every day.  Think about it: how else do you stay on the damn horse?

But I digress...my most recent realization has been, "Oh shit.  I'm 29.  It's not going to continue to get easy."  I don't have time to put it off any longer; if I don't start now, it will be like climbing Everest, instead of just hiking up to Table Rock.  I have been riding my bike quite a bit, but after a ride to Lucky 13 (where my legs turned to noodles at about mile 6 after pushing myself pretty hard) I'm realizing I've still got a ways to go.

So, I created a morning routine and I wrote it on the bathroom mirror.  If I just think it in my head and don't do it, there won't be someone there to hold me accountable.  Having it out there, I'm more likely to do it for fear of failure. (The little note of encouragement Jason left beside it certainly helps too).  It also helps that Jason and I are now duking it out to see who can lose 10 pounds first; bringing out my fiercely competitive side is a surefire way to get me to exercise.

We'll see how I do.  Perhaps I will post some before/after photos...or maybe I'll spare you.  Meh.  Who cares?  It may help others motivate themselves too.