Fitness Update – Work In Progress

Written by Greg

Amazingly enough, we’re now halfway through 2009. I guess its true that time flies when you’re having fun, because this has been a wild year so far. Since we’re at the halfway point, I thought I would take a moment to do a fitness update and see how I’m progressing toward achieving my fitness goals for 2009.

This is where I stand:

Perform 12 unassisted pull ups (overhand grip, shoulder width)
- Yesterday I peeled off six. My progress is slowing on this one. Some days I can only squeeze out four, but I’m starting to see my gains slow here. I’m starting to believe it will be a stretch to make the full 12 by year’s end.
Complete one sprint distance triathlon – event to be determined.
- As of April, I hadn’t picked an event yet, and I’m still slacking here. I have been out on the bike a few times, and proven to myself that I can still complete the event. I’ve also done a handful of bike-run workouts to get reacquainted with the rubber-leg feeling that comes from this combination of events. The local pool opened in May and we bought a family membership, so I’ve been building my swim distances again, and swimming 500-600 meters 1-2 times each week.
Run a 5K in under 25 minutes.
- My running has dropped off as the heat has picked up. With it being so hot and humid, I’ve been less motivated to run. Fortunately I’m meeting my brother tonight to go for a run. I’m looking forward to this, as I usually don’t have a running partner these days.
Complete 100 pushups
- I had started the 100 pushup challenge, and did good for about six weeks, moving from 55 to 68 consecutive pushups. Then I quit. I resolved to check status today and come in at a disappointing 52. Time to get back with the program.
17% Body Fat
- I just had this checked and at 185 pounds, it came in at 16.4%. I may have been a bit lower as I’ve been hovering at 183.5 pounds, but this morning I was 185 so that’s what I gave them. This is a 0.6% reduction from my April number.

In addition to pursuing these goals, I’ve also managed to get a fair amount of tennis in this spring and summer. A coworker and I go play tennis when everyone else goes golfing. We’re going to be playing together on Monday and Tuesday of next week. In addition, a friend of mine has taken up the sport with a vengeance and seems determined to beat me. He’s making good progress there, too. I’m expecting to play with him at least once over the July 4th.

Some weeks I don’t get in all the gym time, running, or other “exercise” I have planned. Instead, I go play tennis, go hunting, take my wife dancing, or wrestle with my kids. But these moments are the whole reason I work out the other days. If workouts become an end unto themselves, I would be missing the point. I “exercise” so I can do the things I love.

Have you set goals for yourself this year? If so, how are you progressing toward them? Maybe you need to get re-energized.

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