Winter Sailing in Puget Sound

Ready to ride, solo mission, Stevens Pass, February, 2007

The Legs of a Madman

Today I rode in the annual chilly hilly ride. The Chilly Hilly is a classic winter bike ride that runs counter-clockwise around the lovely Bainbridge Island. As the name says it, it is hilly and chilly. In classic northwest fashion the weather was cold, damp and rainy. By the time I finished the ride my lower legs and feet were soaked and covered in road grime and dirt. I also think that I was in a mildly hypothermic state. Nonetheless; this was a great ride and the 1st formal bike event that I have completed. I have done some running events and the impact can be so heavy on the joints, you also do not get the reward and thrill of bombing down the hills. Today's event made me realize how important physical challenges are for me. I am currently in the process of trying to be a bit more active and work out more- I am attempting to complete 5 solid hours of cardio per week- I know that this does not sound like much, however this is cardio only and does not include weight lifting or any other exercise. Due to my awkward schedule this is going to put me in the two-a-day category for gym sessions. I am really ok with this- in fact I love the active life with a passion. In my Outward Bound days; I was faced with physical challenges all of the time and as a result was in great shape. When I got into to my 30's and was going to graduate school I gained a lot of weight and became way less active. I am letting this go and getting back to the way I was before. One of my life goals is to get fitter as I get older and this is what I intend to do. Fitness is a way of life and that life starts now!