30 Runs in 30 Days

I've been definitely enjoying the unstructured off-season of triathlon, but I was hungry for a new challenge.  For months it has been about hitting certain target heartrate zones and time specifications for all things swimbikerun.  I was burnt out.

Over the years my running has improved, but it has continually been the weakest link for me out of the three sports.  I read about the 30 Runs in 30 Days challenge from the boys over at Endurance Corner, and when a friend told me that he was taking this on, well, I invited myself along in the journey.  Accountability is always a good thing.  Especially when there are bets and consequences involved if you break your 30 days.

It sounds easy in theory, you just run 30 minutes minimum a day.  There was a freedom that drew me into this challenge; there were no specific target heartrates to hit, no tempo runs, no intervals, no set distance....you just run.  For me, it was a welcomed relief from 'structured' training and an opportunity to rediscover the joy of running and uncover new trails and roads I would have never thought to traverse.

We are documenting our daily runs and it has provided me an opportunity to see the beauty of my environment.  I completed Day 9 today, and am excited to see the progress my body will make by Day 30.

Lesson #1: Don't go too long on one given day.  Or you will pay the next day.  There are no rest days!

Some days are definitely easier than others.  Late nights after dinner are more difficult, but if there's a will, there's a way...

Following the red lights seemed to be the theme of Friday evening.

I've been lucky to still squeeze in some swimming for active recovery.

 Having to back up these runs day after day without full rest days has made me pay attention to everything I am fueling my body with.  It's only been a little over a week, but I can feel a difference in my energy when I feed the machine with quality and clean foods.

Grilled cod, arugula, tri-color quinoa, spicy sprouts, red onion, red bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots, and avo

Broiled black cod, roasted veggies with sweet potatoes in coconut oil

 I look at each day as a new opportunity.  Already this has kick-started my running motivation and has allowed me to open my mind up to bigger opportunities and challenges.  I've already recruited a partner in crime to do a 50K trail run with me in the upcoming months.  This past year has been amazing with all the people I've met who have inspired me personally and professionally, and it has been refreshing to just do what I love and see things fall into place.  Live wide, my friends.