In Need of a Fitness Challenge

Bikram+Challenge+Time!

Tax season is approaching an end.  I can see the light ahead and I can’t wait.  That means I will work fewer hours and have time to focus on other things more, like my family, house, and myself.  One thing I’ve noticed from working more hours is that I have put on some extra weight.  I am not very happy about that.  I suppose it’s a combination of having to sit at a desk longer and eating less healthy as I have been doing simple and convenient meals.  My boss has also been taking me out to lunch a lot, and I don’t always pick a salad.  So, needless to say, I need to do something about the extra poundage.

I recently purchased a mini stepper.  It works similar to a stair climber, but it’s a lot more compact.  I just started using it on Monday, and I am only able to last about 5 minutes on the machine.  I should probably mention that I have a heart condition and am a little limited on my cardio.  That is one reason I chose the mini stepper.  I wanted something that would be lower impact but still give me a good workout.  I definitely get a cardio workout, but it isn’t as hard as if I were to run or do aerobics.  So far I really like it and I have been getting on it twice a day.

mini

Working out is great, but I am one who likes to give myself a challenge.  So I am going to try a simple version of the “Walk Across America Challenge”.  I plan on keeping track of my steps and following the Discovery Trail that goes from California to Delaware.  There is something about being part of a challenge that helps to motivate me.  Perhaps it’s my competitive streak.  In this case, I am competing against myself and hoping to meet a goal.  I would love for other people to join me in this virtual trek across the country.

map

I am willing to provide links to the tracker sheet I have made for myself and also keep track of everyone and do up to date posts.  If you are interested in participating in this challenge with me, please leave a comment.  Let me know you want to challenge yourself to walk across America and would like to join my fitness support group.  As of today, the group consists of one (me).  I would also love any ideas on how I should measure my miles.  I saw one idea that did 1/10th of a step equals 1 mile.  Or I could calculate my steps into miles and go mile for mile (livingstrong.com had a great article on converting stair steps into miles).  If others would like to join in this challenge they can do any type of fitness they would like.  It could be walking, running, biking, climbing, etc.  Anything that gets them moving.  I hope many others will join me and we can support each other to achieve a healthier self.  So lace up your sneakers and let’s walk across America together.  Who’s with me?