Denise Sanger

I’ll be honest. This morning I felt older than Moses as I was running/power walking to finish my eighth half marathon — my second Tallahassee half marathon — with my Jasper running buddy Toni Greenberg. I actually love this marathon route although we heard quite a few grumblings and rumblings about the hills. For me the hills are an advantage because I can walk/hike up them and then enjoy the run downhill and I’ll take ANY advantage I can get! For those trying to qualify for one of the national races like Boston or New York, the hills may hurt more than help them.

When you do any type of event, at least for me, there are times when you feel like giving up and calling it a day. Why didn’t I do that? Because I had my running buddy with me along with the volunteers, police, fire, and medical personnel along the route encouraging us to keep going. Without them, it may be easy to quit.

The funny thing is that the volunteers and other supporters along the route probably don’t even realize how important they are to those of us in the race. They give their support — no questions asked. As you make your way along the route, just seeing these amazing groups of people with their funny support signs is all it takes to keep moving. Some of the signs held along the route are hilarious such “This is the worst parade ever!” to “Last hill — promise!” Great way to take your mind off any aches and pains as you continue moving toward the finish line.

We don’t all run at the same speed — some run super fast while others of us (me) woggle which is walking, jogging and maybe a waddle. Doesn’t matter how we get to that finish line — we just need to cross it and it’s a successful finish.

It’s the same thing with exercise and our fitness friends. In my case, my fitness family. If the amazing group of people at the gym every day weren’t there, it would probably be more difficult for me to drive in to town and exercise. After all, there are million other things that need to be completed in a day.

For the most part, I’m a half-full glass kind of girl but there are days that I struggle just like everyone else. We all have those days. If you find yourself struggling to make exercise a part of your week, find a fitness buddy or search for people to train and workout with you. When you know someone is waiting for you, you are less likely to cancel at the last minute.

Having a fitness support system in place will help you be successful in reaching your fitness goals. You GOT this!

Attention Suwannee County Seniors. Check your insurance then come join me at Dog Pound Health & Fitness for Silver Sneakers Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. Classes are FREE depending on your health insurance. Call Dog Pound Health & Fitness, 362-4676, for more information.

To your health,

Denise

Denise Sanger is a certified fitness instructor, FXP Hoop instructor, licensed Zumba, STRONG by Zumba instructor, teaches morning classes and co-founder of Family Fitness Outreach Center with Becky Skipper. Their goal is a healthier Suwannee County. Denise may be reached at DeniseSanger.com, 386/292-6105 or denisesanger@gmail.com