I started FitNess two years ago. Since then, I’ve been making baby steps towards bigger goals. This one just happened to be my first duathlon. 20 miles (3 run, 14 bike, 3 run). I was, let’s just say, unprepared and uninspired. Yet, around me, I had plenty of support. Prior to the event, my co-worker Lisa was quick to jump in and offered to run through the route with me. On the morning of, I couldn’t even get myself to stretch. Yet, my friends continued to provide encouragement.
Once we were on the course itself, it was one of the nicest groups I’ve ever encountered. Since there were no crowds to cheer us on in the –ahem- wilderness, the runners were cheering on each other. In exhausted breaths, they wished me luck as I ran by them. It was a struggle. But… I finished.
My first duathlon: 2:10
I dragged my body home, aching to nap. My sweet roommate left this waiting for me on the kitchen table…
So the next time you see someone struggling to learn a machine at the gym, offer to help. The next time you find yourself in a race, worrying about your performance, don’t forget to smile and share encouragement with others. And always celebrate reaching a goal! You just never know how much your encouragement lifts someone through a race. Thank you to everyone for the support!