My list of "to do" things today includes approximately 4 hours at the office, 2 hours of yard work, 2 hours of reading (completed) and maybe I'll get a run in . . . NOT! The picture at the top of the blog this week serves as a reminder that I have reached that "day." But I still do what I can, whether it is long walks or long, slow bike rides. You, on the other hand, have NOT reached that day and today is the perfect for taking advantage of the gift you have been given.
I've alluded to Admiral McRaven's inspirational speech several times in recent entries. As you may know, his speech was made at the University of Texas commencement with the message that those graduates could change the world. The speech included 10 examples of ways to approach the task, taken from his experience in becoming a Navy SEAL. He speaks of the daily training which included swimming for lengthy periods in cold ocean waters and then crawling in beach sand while wet. That alone sounds very uninviting, but then he goes on to say, the candidates were then forced to remain in that clothing for the entire day many times. The trainees called the result becoming a "sugar cookie." Many he says, could not deal with the discomfort and ultimately were dropped from the program. Those that dealt with it, were well on their way to becoming SEALs. The point I think, and how it relates to your running, is that like the SEALs it is important to for you to get out of your comfort zone if you hope to accomplish your goals. You must challenge yourself in ALL you do to achieve the success you ARE capable of attaining, whether it is in running, academics or the work environment. Frankly, I miss being challenged, but I am still thrilled by watching you reach your potential.
This week the weather forced cancellation of Tuesday's core training. On Wednesday we held the Youth Track program, again with a good turnout. I am amazed by those youngsters and love this event! I am grateful for all the adults and student-athletes that are helping to make the program a success ! THANK YOU! And last evening's core session saw a good group of student-athletes work through a somewhat difficult routine. For those who were not able to attend you may want to familiarize yourself with what I now call the "sugar cookie" routine found at the link:
https://www.active.com/running/articles/13-essential-core-exercises-for-runners
Each of the 13 exercises is immediately followed by a 100 Meter Dash (certainly outside your comfort zone.) There is no time out. That routine was followed up with our customary 10 X 1 minute core, and stretching routine. I'm proud of those kids who have been attending our two-per-week sessions. It is evidence of their commitment. I am hopeful that over the next 4 weeks we will see more of you there.
Finally, I mentioned yesterday's blog entry was the most important of the summer. It is. If you check, you'll see that preparation time is winding down. Don't be fooled into thinking there is plenty of time before we get to serious work. On August 23rd, 24th and 25th you will be asked to run 4 miles (some will run far more.) I KNOW not everybody will be able to do this! Whether you can complete the distance or not will not determine if you are on the team, but being able to do so will likely insure that you will meet our goals for you during the upcoming season. If you are training now using one of our training programs you WILL be able to go that distance. So what's stopping you? Get out there! Questions? Concerns? E-Mail me at stevegeo@post.harvard.edu or text at 781-367-8487. I'll get back to you quickly.
Have a terrific weekend and hit the road (or trail!)
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