Workout Wisdom - Peloton Edition: Two Years In

I grew up a firmly rooted couch potato. Exercise just wasn’t a thing in my family. I was an indoor kid. I read a lot. I dreaded the mile run day at school. I wasn’t the happiest child. 

At some point in my twenties I realized that the definitions I had of myself weren’t serving me, and that I should try doing things that scared me. I signed up for an Outward Bound trip, figuring that the me I knew wasn’t a person who camped or did strenuous physical activity. I trained for the trip and had an amazing time. I learned that I loved pushing myself and loved being out in nature. 

This led to many marathons, a stint as a cardio kickboxing instructor (yes, really!), ultramarathons, century bike rides, and exercise becoming the foundation of my well-being - physically and mentally. 

Today marks two years of doing something on the Peloton platform every day. Every single day. Some days it’s just a 10 minute stretch or yoga class. Some days it’s a 30 minute walk with my dog Sadie. Many days it’s a combination of rides, lifting and stretching. But it’s always something. 

I talk a lot about self awareness, self regulation, motivation and maximizing time and energy in the manager training sessions I lead. This activity plays a huge role in all of these areas for me. I’ve learned (though trial and error) how to listen to what my mind and body need, and know that even a 10 minute Tabata class will provide a significant energy boost when I don’t have time for a long workout. I’ve learned that carving out time for myself in this way makes me a nicer person to be around. 

I know this streak will end eventually. And that’s ok. Many days I ask myself if I’m getting on the bike just for the streak, or because I want to ride. So far I’m driving the streak, it’s not driving me. 

What streak do you have going on? Is it motivating to you, or a burden? #energy #motivation #peloton #wellness