Creating an Athlete

"Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." --George Bernard Shaw

As a newly turned 40-year-old, I have been thinking about how I need to find myself. After reading this quote this past weekend, I realize that instead I need to create myself and the life I want!


I mentioned in a post a few days ago that I am training for two upcoming half marathons. I have been pretty good with my training, although I do need to increase my running during the week (which I have been doing recently). I keep injuring myself, however. Last fall I fractured a toe...more recently I get sudden leg cramps and nerve pain.

A friend suggested to me that instead of always running, I add in some non-impact cardio exercise, like swimming and cycling. This way I am still getting a good workout, but not always putting so much stress on my legs. Last week, I went swimming for the first time. (Well, not the first time, obviously, but one of the first times ever as a workout). I did 12 laps, which just about killed me. It was so hard! Yesterday I again went swimming, and did 20 laps---which is half a mile!

This same friend has suggested that I sign up for an upcoming triathlon (he himself does triathlons). In October there is one that is a "sprint" distance--that is, a 1/2 mile swim in the Bay, a 15k (9.4 mile) bike ride, then a 5k (3.1 miles) run. And you know, what? I think I am going to do it! I can easily do the 5k run. Yesterday, I already swam 1/2 mile in the pool. And I know I need to train for the bike ride, but that shouldn't be too bad.

What I am most nervous about is the swim. Yes, I did 1/2 mile yesterday, but that was in a pool, taking a short (5-30 second) break every length of the pool. In the Bay it will be totally open water. Luckily, the race isn't for 3 1/2 months, so I have plenty of time to work up to continuous swimming. I am taking my bike in for a tune-up today, and when I get it back will start riding outside. I rode an exercise cycle at the gym this morning, and am in so much pain---I must get my quadriceps in shape!

I am very excited about my new goals---half marathons plus a triathalon! I have never been an athletic person; never played a sport as a child, and was always the last to be picked for teams. And to this day, I am very slow. But I am excited about CREATING myself---the self of an athlete---an image I have in my mind. J and I are also starting a program tonight inspired by a website called hundred pushups...which, supposedly if we follow it, will allow us to work up to doing 100 pushup (in one session!) in 6 weeks. Whew!

Here's to creating my new self!