Get Out of the Rut and Back Into Your Favorite Jeans

by Matt Tucker

One of the best ways to get in shape and stay motivated is to register and train for a race. Whether it is a 5k or 10k walk or run, half or full Marathon, century bike ride, or triathlon, completing a race is a thrilling fitness experience.

Here is an 11 Step Guide to help you cross the finish line (and get fit along the way):

1. Choose your Event: Decide if you want to run, walk, bike, or try a triathlon. Don’t be afraid to try something new and exciting. Haven’t ran since high school gym class? No worries. Keep reading.

2. Find a Race: Do some research to find a list of events in your area. Check out www.coolrunning.com to search by state and event type. Choose an event that allows adequate training time. Pay the entry fee NOW. Registration fees are generally less expensive if you sign up early. Plus, you are less likely to quit if you already paid.

3. Make a Plan: Even a novice runner can complete a marathon with proper coaching, training, and enough time. To prevent injury, make sure you follow a plan designed for your event. Check out the ‘Training’ tabs at www.runnersworld.com and www.bicycling.com or check out a training book at your local library.

4. Mark your Calendar: Post the big day on your calendar and start counting down. Track your progress and keep a log of all of your training. Follow your training guide and check off each workout.

5. Gear Up: If you are running, go to your local running store and get professionally fitted with a pair of sneakers. Tell them about your plans and they will be happy to help. If biking, take your bike to your local shop and get a tune up.

6. Join the Club: Find a friend with whom to train. Training with others is a great way to stay stay motivated. While you are at the bike shop or running store, ask about cycling or running clubs. Want to train with certified coaches and help raise funds for a lifesaving cause? Check out www.teamintraining.org for more information.

7. Tell all your Friends: Make sure your friends and family know your plans. Their excitement will boost your motivation. It’s Okay to smile when they tell you are crazy. Who knows, maybe your accomplishment will motivate them to get in shape too.

8. No Bailout: Now that everyone knows you are running a race, you can’t back out. Embrace the encouragement and don’t let yourself or your friends down. Unless an injury makes a break necessary, keep up with your training. Race day will be a lot more fun and less painful if your body is conditioned.

9. Moral Support: Remember your those friends and family from #7? Invite them to come to the race and cheer you on. Hearing your name and seeing a familiar face can offer an extra (and sometimes extremely helpful) boost.

10. Be Prepared: Print out all of the race details. Get a good night’s sleep. Double check that you have all your gear. Arrive early. Stay hydrated.

11. Enjoy Yourself: Last, and certainly not least, HAVE FUN! Embrace the experience. Feel the burn. Revel in completing your goal. Savor the camaraderie with the other participants. Hug your friends at the end. Eat a delicious celebratory meal. Go home and sign up for your next event.

Matt Tucker is a fitness-crazed, bike addict, with a coffee obsession. He lives in Denver where he frequents local music venues, coffee shops, public libraries, dog parks, and ski slopes. He is a vegetarian because of health and environmental reasons, not because he likes cows. And yes, there is a way to get enough protein on a vegetarian diet and still have the power to run half-marathons and ride hundred mile bike rides. Matt convinced his company to let him work from home 1,800 miles away from the corporate office and eventually quit his six-figure job to travel and try to create work that he is passionate about.