December 2022
Message from the Coach
I was running on the rail trail one day and overtook a man on a recumbent bicycle. As I passed him, he said, “Aren’t you ashamed of me?” I said “Absolutely not! You’re out here doing something!”
This is an attitude I see a lot. People think just because they aren’t the fastest, or the strongest, or the fittest, means they are somehow “less” than someone else. I have lost count of how many times people have told me “I’m not a real runner, like you.” If you run, you are a runner! I am no more of a runner than anyone else who runs. And you are no less of a runner, or an athlete, than anyone who might be faster or stronger than you. Outside of competition, fitness is not and should not be about comparison. It is about each individual doing their best, to be their best self.
Please don’t let yourself get caught in the comparison trap. Please don’t ever think of yourself as “less than” because of how you compare to someone else. Remember that your journey is your own, and the only thing you should compare yourself to is your past self. Are you where you want to be? Do you like who you are compared to who you were? If not, what can you do to get there?
Do you need someone to talk to about your health/fitness journey? Schedule a time to chat with me to see how I can help. There is no obligation to sign up for coaching after the meeting. All I ask is a donation for my time.
Send an email to coach@run4thehills.com.
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Recipe of the Month
Chia Pudding
https://www.loveandlemons.com/chia-seed-pudding/
I don’t know about you, but I get tired of eating the same thing for breakfast every day. I ate pancakes every day for years. And then oatmeal for what felt like forever. Then I started eating greek yogurt with lots of mix-ins. I’m trying not to get stuck on one thing anymore now. So I’m alternating greek yogurt, eggs and toast, and chia seed pudding. The texture of the pudding is definitely not for everybody, but the taste is fantastic! I eat mine with fresh fruit and granola, which helps with the texture.
Workout of the Month
The “Elf” Christmas workout for kids (10 min)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R82EBGYm9fw
Round up the kids and give this one a try. Don’t have kids? That’s ok, try it anyway just for something different and fun!
Cardio Tip of the Month
Every little bit counts! Do you ever find yourself skipping cardio because you don’t think it’s worth it if you don’t spend a certain amount of time on it? Even 5 or 10 minutes is better than zero! Especially if you can find 5 or 10 minutes, several times during the day. It all adds up.
Currently Recommending :
Book : The Poldark series by Winston Graham
I recommended the TV series back in March, and recently found the books at my local library. There are 12 books in the series, so it is keeping me busy for a little while! I love finding book series with enough books in them to prolong the time when I have to try and find something new to read.
Music : Ciaran McKeekan
I recently discovered this artist, and have really been enjoying his music, especially since it is music I can sing along to!
Podcast : The Running for Real Podcast with Tina Muir
With 328 episodes and counting, there is something (running related) for everyone! Browse the episode list and find one that will be helpful/interesting to you.
Coming soon :
2023 Monthly Accountability Groups
Join for January, random months throughout the year, or join for the whole year! This group is a great way to help you make and stay on track with health/fitness goals, while receiving encouragement from other members and help from me. Message me to learn more or sign up!
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