Thursday, December 29, 2011

My new training....

Wow, it's been a year since I have posted on here! I've been so busy with many other aspects of Sk8Strong, that I've neglected this blog.  This post will be a little different than usual.  Many people who have visited my website or use Sk8Strong products ask me about my own workout programs and how I stay in shape to skate.  I love sharing my stories and motivating people (especially adult skaters) to start a new workout program.

I have to admit, I skated for the first time in over a year a few weeks ago.  With two young children, it is very hard for me to find time for myself to skate.  I'm holding off until my youngest is in first grade, then I'll be back!  I am able to make time for a for a grueling functional training workout once a week, to be in shape and to keep my sanity.  Yet if I can't skate, I need some kind of goal to work towards, to motivate me to train. Hhmmm, train for what though? Being an intensely competitive person, I needed to find something.....

A few months ago, I started talking to a friend about doing one of the adventure races that are growing in popularity, such as Rugged Maniac, Warrior Dash, or the ultimate challenge, Tough Mudder.  The problem is, the races involve running, I've NEVER been a runner.  (Always despised it, to tell you the truth.) The smaller races are 3 miles, and involve challenges such as jumping over walls, running through mud pits, climbing obstacles, and more.  The obstacles I could easily tackle because of my training, but the running, not so much.  So in the last 2 months, Lauren Downes the skater has become a runner.

I'm proud to say that I am now able to run a 5K in under 30 minutes, something I could never do in high school or college, and my goal is the eventually be able to run 5 miles at a time without stopping.  My best so far is 3.25 (on the treadmill, my greatest enemy, only because it's too cold outside),  Why am I telling you this?  Because if I can start something new and stick with it until I enjoy it, all of you can get involved with a training program to reach your goals.  No matter what age you are, there is something out there for you to help make you fit and reach your goals, whether it be functional training, cardio, cross-fit, etc.  It's never too late to start something new, no matter how apprehensive you are about trying.

So adventure races and 5Ks, here I come!