2008 Challenge: March

It's March 1st and that means a new challenge for all you Active Academics.

I am sure all of you are happy that February is over. For as short as it is, it is truly one painful month. With all the sickness, obligations, sickness, responsibilities and sickness that comes with February, it's no wonder it has been a bit quiet around here. (I did mention sickness...right?). It's hard to keep up with a fitness routine when you are not feeling up to par because your students show up to class with the plague and feel it's OK to share the pain. And, now that the semester is in full swing and midterms are at our throats, our time is limited. And let's not forget all the other other things that seem to have us running in circles. Sleep or some other ass-horizontal position seems preferable to walking on a treadmill.

Now that it is March, spring will be here soon (Unless you live in my neck of the woods where it snows through April). Spring is traditionally at time of renewal or rebirth. We make new commitments by doing spring cleaning and organizing. It's also that preparation time for summer.

So, that is what the March challenge is all about. Re-commitment. If you have fallen off the wagon with your fitness routine, now is the time to make a new commitment. How do you do that?

• Forgive yourself for past "sins", meaning stop beating yourself up for not sticking to your plan.
• Realize that we all falter. We all have setbacks.
• Understand that fitness is not an all or nothing concept. It's a process that has many ups and downs.
• Give yourself credit for what you HAVE accomplished. Maybe you have made some lifestyle changes that you think are minimal. But the truth is, every positive change is a step in the right direction. Embrace your victories.
• Ask yourself the tough questions. What was it that caused you to lose sight of your fitness goal? What did you tell yourself when you lost sight of your goal? What were the circumtances that led to the setback? What is holding you back now? What changes can you implement? What steps can you take to deal with those things that impact your road to fitness.
• Make a new commitment and a new plan. Set a goal for the month. Find something that you can get excited about and let that guide you.

And what if you doing well with the Challenge? Well, you are not off the hook. Look at your current routine. Are you bored? Is it challenging? Are you at a plateau? At some point, your body will become used to your routine, so it is important to change your routine regularly. Consider trying something new. Take a class, try a different piece of equipment, or add some strength and/or flexibility training. Give your body a little wake up call.

Now is the time to reconnect with yourself and your fitness goals. You can do it! Don't forget to post.

Hugs,

Seeking Solace