The Finish Line isn't Really the Finish

The process of completing a goal includes planning, executing, finishing and evaluating.  The degree of difficulty in completing the goal, the timeframe needed and other factors correlate to the feeling of achievement once the goal is met.  One of the most rewarding goals for me is competing in a race. 

I’ve written before about races I’ve competed in and the experience of planning, executing, finishing and evaluating the race.  One output I get from racing is the benefit of training.  It impacts other goals I have set for myself.  In order to train, I need to eat well and exercise consistently.  Exercising is a great way for me to clear my mind.  The list is endless.  In addition to the training, crossing the finish line is the culmination of effort and brings a great sense of accomplishment.

The finish line isn’t really the finish though.  It’s just the start to the next goal I want to achieve.  One race sets the stage for another race or another health and fitness goal.  With my recent injury, it’s been frustrating and disappointing to drop out of a few races.  However, I’m putting new training plans in place and preparing for a few late summer and fall races.  I was motivated by seeing two friends recently compete in a long running race, their first, and hearing about their journey through the finish line.

Could planning, executing, finishing and evaluating a race positively impact your health and wellness goals?  Only you know if you are physically ready to make that commitment.  There is always the possibility of risk along with reward so you have to decide what works best for you.  If you’re not ready to compete in a race, consider volunteering to see how a race is executed and to be a part of the experience (volunteers are absolutely essential to the successful execution of a race!  Thanks to anyone who has ever volunteered at one!).

No matter if you want to compete, volunteer or just cheer everyone on, here a few links to upcoming races in Iowa or around the Midwest.  (If you’re interested in finding a race right in your area, call a local specialty sports store.  They likely will have information about races in your area.)

Iowa Games – www.iowagames.org – What event schedule can tout archery, bowling, cycling, dodgeball, disc golf, horseshoes, sand volleyball, taekwondo, track and field, water skiing and so much more?!  Check out the Iowa Games!

Color Run – http://thecolorrun.com -  A unique 5k running experience!  There are several events around the US, including a run in Des Moines on October 6th.

Fitness Sports – www.fitnesssports.com – They have one of the most comprehensive running event lists for Iowa.

The Full Sked – http://thefullsked.com – The Full Sked features running, cycling and multi-sport events.  They also do nice write ups post event.

There are SO many other websites that have race information!  Just search for your desired city or state and type of event to see what is available in your area.  If you decide at some point the time and situation is right for you to compete and you’d like an extra cheerleader in the crowd, let me know.  If my race calendar is open for the day, I’ll be happy to come cheer you on as you cross the finish line that is really just the start to a bigger journey!

Miss FitGab