What is an athlete ? Some might consider that you have to play big 10 sports, mountain climb or train for the Olympics to be an athlete but I believe there is much more to it. True athletes are kindred spirits. Something is buried deep inside of them that keeps them striving for excellence. A true athlete develops a skill over time with practice and they are determined to do their best. It takes discipline and hard work. The grace and skill that we see displayed by athletes is a process. It takes self control and focus and it truly is an art form. Just recently I examined my life and discovered that I am an athlete.
I think the thing I love about training is that it is a challenge. Not everyone can commit themselves to doing something even when their mind and body doesn't necessarily feel like it. Sticking to a consistent workout schedule has been difficult for me but after a good workout I always feel better. I have come to learn that not only is Physical Fitness a personal choice but it is a life long journey. Being fit is not something that happens over night and there is no easy way to be and stay fit. It takes dedication, hard work, focus, endurance and patience. We should strive to awaken our inner athlete. No matter how in shape or out of shape you are there is always room for improvement. Physical fitness is just as much mental as it is physical; One has to make up in thier mind what it is they want to achieve and not let outside forces detour them of the goal in mind no matter how difficult.
Not only does physical fitness benefit the body but it benefits your mind and spirit.When I am training my body it sets me free. All of the of the day to day worries seem to fade away and my mind is then elevated to a higher place that's devine. This feeling is why I am dedicated to ultimate self improvement. Along with this comes my involvement in physcial activities. I have an extreme love for physcial activites that has developed over the years. Sometimes it takes me a while to openly share this passion with others. My personal quest for fitness has been going on for years. I remember when I was a little girl and I used to do areobics with my mother. Back then it was "The 20 Minute Workout" I was determinded to get all the steps down. I also recall my ex-tomboy phase when I used to play football in the back field with my brothers. I had quite a set of hands.
I have experienced some set backs and challenges during my fitness but when I look from whence I've come it is a good feeling. I have come a long way. In 2001 I made a vow to myself to learn what self love really means and apply that to my life. With this came my dive into nutrition and a promise to myself to be the best I could be. I made a climb out of depression and since 2001 lost a total of 70 pounds. I havn't lost my desire to keep move forward.
It is silly to think that I fear telling people about my love for exercise because I am not in my ideal size and shape. (Well not yet but I am getting there) I sometimes fear they will look at me and see I am overweight might not believe that I have the ability to run 9 miles strait. Or, I am lying about my frequent attendance in spinning, step aerobics, yoga, Zumba and Ballroom Dance classes. I do love all of these activities so much that they are some of my greatest passions in life. I know I am better because of it so I am now determinded to share this with the world. After all why should I be ashamed when I have changed so many things for the better.
All throughout my life I have felt that it has been difficult to fit in with most individuals. (not that I strive to fit in with any and everyone) These were places such as school, work and sometimes even church. This bothered me for sometime until I learned that I shouldn't fit in with everyone. I am a person that wants continue to reach new hieghts and blow away mediocrity. So it is not that I don't fit anywhere in but yet I fit in with those that are like minded. When I think about the places I feel most comfortable what comes to mind is the Gym, dance class, Physical Therapy and the running trail. When I leave these places I feel like a better person. I know I am sharper, quicker and stronger than before. These are the moments of escape where I can let my gaurd down and just be me. I have had some of my best life expiences while working out. Most peopleeople in these places have the ability to give so much of themselves to help others reach thier personal best. In additon, these are places where bonds can be formed. I just think about the feeling I get when I am out on the trail and my feet get so heavy I feel like stopping before I reach my set distnace. Once I encounter the runner going in the opposite direction, we give each other the nod that helps us propel each other to the next mile marker.
I know that I train hard but I have been told my many I don't give myself enough credit. My Trainer says that I have heart and I train like an athlete. At first I couldn’t accept the comment or understand why he said that but as time went on and we continued to train I realized that I am an athlete. I love to take on a challenge and everyday I commit myself to be the best. As I train I can feel myself and see myself getting stronger. I work harder to see better results. I am committed to developing my athletic skills over time. Training hard helps me to improve the overall quality of my life. I am in a good place in life. Tomorrow I will be stronger than today. Going forward I will muster up the courage to strive for new heights and reach goals like never before. This is the reason for me running the Rock and Roll Half Marathon in December 2010. Not only will I accomplish an extraordinary thing but I will sharpen my mind, body and spirit. Not only will I be helping myself but I will be helping heroes struggling with illnesses. I will be helping people by providing the resources for them to move forward everyday despite the many obstacles and challenges. This is why I run. This is why I am. As my heroes motivate me allow me to motivate you. Please partner with me as I reach a new height in life. Please give what you can to help me and so many others reach new heights. Donate to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Let's commit to our personal best together and help find a cure for these diseases.
