Rugged Maniac - 16 Day Countdown

Only 16 days until Ryan and I run the Rugged Maniac. I was a bit worried I would even be able to make it, as I accidentally nuked my ankles again with my Vibram shoes. I didn't mean to run in them, but we got a new dog, the dog and I were walking and Colson and his friend were biking. So I ran. It was fun and I paid for it with nuked ankles. Check out the June 2010 archives for more Vibram experiences.

After that injury I was wondering if I would make the Maniac because it took months to get over it the first time. Enter my homeopath, Hart Matthews of Dynamis Homeopathy. He said to take Arnica 30C three times a day for three days. Dog gone - the pain was GONE! The cracking was GONE! Two weeks later I started running up hills in tennis shoes. No sign of injury.

Ryan wants to go on some practice runs, but I am thinking not. I have done so many squats and lunges that I can run all day, and I have upped my cardio by doing 160 military pushups every other day in between the squats and lunges. I have some body fat to shed (see Too Many Nuts (big loud scream of horror), but I am feeling great and ready to give the Maniac a try.

Because of the Maniac, Ryan and I have gotten moving more than we have in years. I am thinking we will continue to run some mud-type events as it is great motivation. Our dog, Nelly, has become the best gym investment ever. One of us has to take her on the three mile power walk/run every day. And we have gotten innovative and made our own TRX Straps and soon will make some other workout tools. 

I am continually amazed that as Ryan and I get older we feel better and have more fun. We guide and push each other and inspire each other. He is just perfect for me.

Remember, it is a journey. I started mine too heavy and out of shape 17 years ago. Wonderful people presented themselves to me and I took the opportunities they gave to me. The human journey is an ultra-marathon, not a sprint. It takes time and it comes in waves and cycles. I will always be thankful for the one who started me and for those who have supported me throughout. I am relishing every step.

Namaste.