Time for a quick detour from the usual talk, although as I’ll explain, this spiel does have a slight connection to food.
The gym… has been packed. New Year’s resolutions are in full effect. Everyone’s going nuts trying to lose the holiday pounds. So here’s my pitch: How about getting in great shape with company (a lot more fun than doing it alone) and working towards a goal, while simultaneously raising money for a charitable cause?
I’ve mentioned in previous posts my involvement with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training program, and to quote Harvey Milk, “I’m here to recruit you!” The program trains people of all athletic abilities to participate in walks, hikes, marathons and half marathons, 100-mile bike rides and triathlons. Athletes fund-raise for their respective event — the money going towards blood cancer research and patient services.
I’ve seen first hand people’s lives change from their involvement — not only is the cause extremely personal for those whose lives have been affected by leukemia and lymphoma, but for many people, this is their first foray into fitness and athletics. Lifelong couch potatoes find themselves becoming fitter than they ever imagined, and then running a half marathon or completing a triathlon. The program and athletes are inspiring on so many levels.
This spring, I’m coaching the Westchester/Hudson Valley team that’s racing in the Wyckoff Sprint Triathlon in New Jersey. There are still several spaces on the team left, and I want you to join! Don’t be intimidated if you’ve never run, cycled or swum in your life. We’ll teach you, we’ll bring you along slowly, and you’ll be amazed at your lean and mean self by the time this is all over.
What does this have to do with food, you ask? Well, think of it this way: You’re going to burn a LOT of calories, and thus, you’ll need and want to eat more. I’m not saying you can go all gluttonous crazy, but believe me, you’ll feel a lot less guilty about downing that ice cream or slice of pizza. Depending on your body type, you might even lose weight while consuming more calories!
I encourage you to check out the Team in Training site and find a sport and event that interests you. If you’re interested in the Wyckoff Triathlon, email me and I’ll put you in contact with the right people.
So come on, let’s do this together. We’re going to train hard and have a lot of fun along the way. We can chat about food and hit up local cafes after workouts. And if you want to get in shape simply so you can eat more, I understand.
Hope to see you out there.