An entry for the Blogging A to Z in April Challenge
I have a few friends who walk every day. Such a pain. I prefer my couch.
But then, yesterday, I shared with one of said friends that our mayor was reinstating his Fitness Challenge of last summer to walk 100 miles in 100 days. Last night I sent her the link. This morning she responded that she’s signing up.
Have you ever felt guilt? Like you know you should be doing something, but if not confronted about it, you can sort of repress it and live happily ever after?
Now what am I supposed to do?
Last summer my daughter joined up right away. Our mayor, Paul Ten Haken, ever the cheerleader for getting us out to nature during our Covid restrictions, thought up this great idea of walking, running, or biking 100 miles in 100 days. Thousands joined up.
I stayed on my couch.
But now I’m having a problem. I’m starting to feel a nudge. If I accept the challenge, I have to sign up by the 23rd and get 100 miles in by August 1st, no matter whether it’s summer muggy or full of monsoons.
In his concern for us, Ten Haken states, “If you’re like me, an attainable fitness goal is important in order to stay on track and stay motivated. And after the past year, the important of our physical health is more top-of-mind than ever.” (Facebook, April 8, 2021)
I love that he’s concerned about me. But now I feel his words calling me. And I feel my arteries clogging at the thought of my couch time. But then I think, too, of the prizes that some win after participating.
What’s a gal, a 79-year-old, to do?
I have nine days to make up my mind. What would you do?
Write Along with Me 
I think Aunt that a goal of 79 miles in 100 would be very fair for you as long as your body feels up to it.. Maybe even only 50 but some exercise is definitely needed in our older age group. I will pray you make a Good decision and stick with it Lord Willing. Love your posts.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Knowing me, if I made 79 I’d have to do a hundred!
LikeLike
My husband and I started walking this month. Each day, we go around our block which is 1.71 km long. I have a bad hip and for months walking in the house and climbing stairs was painful. Surprisingly, the walks have improved my mobility and eased my pain.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s encouraging! Thanks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You could revise the goal to something more motivating, and then revel if you exceed it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have to think of something!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Go for it! It’s good to keep moving. Your couch will be there after the mile. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Smart thought! That could be a mantra: my couch awaits me…
LikeLike
Sign up! Even on bad days, you can set your kitchen timer for 30 minutes and walk inside your house. My 96 year old mother-in-law has a “path” through her house and she used to do all 30 minutes at a time. Now she does it throughout the day. Go for it! You can do it!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Now that is motivating! Good for her. My mother lived to 95 but walked around furniture towards last for support and never for 30” a day. I will keep your MIL in mind!! Thinking of her doing this makes me smile! Woman power!
LikeLike
I have a goal to walk 6,000 steps a day. Sometimes, as yesterday I exceeded it by 2,000. I have an audio book on my phone that I can listen too only when walking. That motivates me. I hope you decide to sign up.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I did! And it is motivating. Good for you with your goal!!
LikeLike