In Training

Saucony Trail Running Shoes

 Looking back, I realize that I was set up, tricked if you will.  Pierce came to me a few weeks ago concerned that his "freshman 15" didn't actually catch up with him until he was a sophomore.  His pants were starting to become uncomfortably tight around the waist.

We discussed his eating and exercise habits and I recommended that he think about participating in sports again.  Throughout his school years, he was active in sports and band.  Due to all the activity, he could eat as much as he wanted without gaining an ounce.  Now, however, he has elected to not participate in college sports and most of his time is spent studying.  While he continues to eat as much as he wants.  

His diet wasn't really an issue.  He has always been a healthy eater, feasting happily on salads, fruits and vegetables. (At the age of 7, he announced that broccoli and spinach were his two favorite foods!). His issue was definitely lack of exercise.  I offered to foot the bill for a gym membership and a session with a personal trainer to get him started.  I told him I would help him in any way I could.  

We returned to the subject last week when he informed me that he was going to start running.  That he intended to participate in a local 5K this upcoming autumn.  The rest of the conversation went something like this:

Pierce: I'll need a pair of running shoes

Me: OK

Pierce: And maybe a couple pair of shorts

Me: OK

Pierce: And a watch for distance and speed

Me:  (with a little exasperation) OK Pierce.  I will do anything to help you. 

Pierce:  Great.  Thanks Momma.  You're the best. Then calling out to the Photographer. "Hey Dad.  Mom's gonna start running with me. Wanna join us?"

Me:  Excuse me? I'm going to do what?

Pierce: (with that big grin I can't resist): Oh, come on Momma.  It'll be fun.  You'll get into better shape and we can spend some quality time together. Us against the elements.  Feet pounding the pavement.  Feeling that rush, the wind in our face . . . yada, yada, yada. You did say you would do anything to help me.

I sometimes wish I wasn't such a pushover when it comes to my child.  But he does have a few points: better fitness and quality time together.  So, starting today, we are in training for a 5K!  We plan to train on the trails in the back fields - a loop around the back 60 acres roughly equals 1.5 miles.

The 20 year old is excited.  The Photographer has announced that, in the spirit of family cooperation and participation, he will pace us with his 4-wheeler! I only hope I survive!