Yes, life these days is chock-full of "rewards" and "member benefits".
But we're talking sweets and indulgences here folks, mostly..
I read an article from a long-ago friend, who only eats french fries after she runs a marathon. never again throughout the year, how crazy is that!
Advice to friend...run more than one marathon, how can you deprive yourself of french fries!
It got me thinking though....
I always used to lecture runners in clinics on the creation of a reward system to look forward to after a special occasion such as the marathon. it could be easy as double-servings of dessert all week, or a special nite out with the loved one(s) you have neglected for so many weeks and months!
It could be sleeping in on a Sunday morning, or not going to the gym, exercise class or doing anything fitness related for a few weeks.
Two of my friends who were dating at the time and running their first marathon decided to take a holiday to Italy
As for me....
What do i do?
To inspire, motivate and help in some small way possible to reach that finish line?
A few things, for those still reading:
- I usually plan another race or adventure after, sometimes it's much later, like months or years, but it keeps me going and doesn't allow complete atrophy after the goal race is finished
- I take a full week off from running, not sure what i will do after the Ironman, something tells me my body will want to do something, maybe tennis...
- I always go to a mid-week movie, and stay up super-late within a few days of the race, usually alcohol is involved
- I like to meet my "downtown" friends on the thursday or friday at , for cocktails, sightseeing and basically ding something that I never get time to do, usually because I train after work mostly
- I eat and drink whatever, wherever and how-many-ever I choose, for at least 2-3 weeks after-the-fact.
Wait.
I always seem to do that anyway, lucky me!
Scratch that last one.
Reward yourself and tell us about it.
pd
peter@mynextrace.com
