So it’s almost the end of the year that changed my life … and that’s not me being melodramatic, it’s the truth. I almost can’t take it all in when I look back to where I was this time last year. I’d already resolved that I would be beginning lighter life in February and was mentally preparing for it. I remember thinking that I simply couldn’t wait to get going, and I’m indescribably happy that I did.
So what does next year hold? Clearly I need to build on what I’ve achieved and not slip back into my mad and bad habits. I’ve surprised myself with my willpower and my ability to stick to my resolutions … if you’d told me a year ago that I would been checking the Christmas opening times for my local gym then I would’ve laughed in your face. I’ve realised that I need to impose discipline on myself and that goals are important to me so, to that end, I’ve taken up running with the ambition of running a marathon. And this is from someone who has struggled in the past with running for a bus! My original intention was to run London in 2010, but I was coerced by a colleague into running New York, with him, in November 2009. Despite the fact that it’s almost Christmas, November next year seems scarily close! But I think I can do it, as long as my knees, back or some other part of my anatomy doesn’t give up on me 🙂
I can now comfortably run 5K in the gym, and have started running outside to get used to the difference. In fact, I was out running around Clapham Common this morning, while pretty much everyone else was lying in bed wondering when they could crack into the mince pies. I’m really beginning to enjoy it … I may be stating the bleedin’ obvious, but when you can run without feeling like your lungs are going to burst, it’s actually quite therapeutic. I’ve always been a fan of repetitive exercise (like swimming) because I just empty my mind and get on with it. I really hate having to concentrate on what I’m lifting, or where the rest of the team are, or how many reps I’m supposed to be doing. Running is easy. You just put your shoes on and go … although it would be a lot more of a chore without my trusty ipod for company (I highly recommend Green Day for any aspiring runners out there!).
So that’s my resolution for next year. I know that I can’t live on salad for the rest of my life, and if I’m running regularly then I’ve got half a chance of not being one of those people who watches the weight pile back on. That would break my heart.
I mentioned in my last post just how difficult this time of year must be for anyone dieting, especially you lighter lifers. Just remember what your long term goals are … a couple of days of indulgence doesn’t in any way compensate for the bonus of years of a healthier life. You have my never ending respect and admiration … one of the reasons I waited until Feb to begin the diet was because I didn’t trust myself to stay on the straight and narrow over the festive season. And, if you fall off the wagon, then just get straight back on it again! As we all know, the world and his wife will be on some form of diet in January, so you’ll be in good company.
Happy Christmas and a fabulously svelte New Year! x