Stronger Every Day — (May Recap)

Almost a full month has passed since I signed up and started training for the Kortelopet. In that time, I’ve accomplished the following quantitative things:
(Teachers call this the “summative” assessment).

• Biked 222 total miles (421 miles from Jan – May)
• Ran 11.54 total miles
• Walked an average of 9, 489 steps per day
• Lost 8 pounds in 5 weeks (254.6 to 246.6)
• I’ve averaged 7-8 hours of sleep each night (before COVID I was getting 5-6 at most. Thanks COVID!)
• Biked 30 miles in one session

I’ve also accomplished the following qualitative things:
(Teachers call this the “formative” assessment).

• I have improved my lunge form and now I can do three sets of 10 with good form
• I have added in tricep curls with a resistance band to my bodyweight workouts
• I don’t feel as sore or tired after biking, running, ect.
• I am starting to see muscle definition in my biceps. I’m really starting to feel muscles in my quads, glutes, hamstrings, calfs, and shoulders.
• I’ve stuck with a training and nutrition plan and made alternate training accommodations when appropriate (less “black and white”/”perfectionist” thinking)

If you’ve taken the time to read and follow my journey so far, I humbly thank you for the likes, follows, and encouraging comments. I’m a private person and making certain things about myself public is a vulnerable and scary experience.

Blogging my couch to 29K journey has kept me accountable and it has also helped me feel connected to others in this age of social-distancing. Also, if you feel like what I have to say is interesting or inspiring to others feel free to share this blog. If I get enough traction, I hope that this blog can help other beginner athletes as they train for the Kortelopet, Birkie, or even a non-skiing race or other athletic event.

Thanks again for all of your support! I’m off to my LBS to look (and hopefully try out) new bike saddles.

Today’s Plan: Bodyweight workout (complete) and Hiking on the Ice Age trail.

Tomorrow’s Plan: LSD bike ride — fingers crossed!! Otherwise a 4 mile LSD run.