Color Me Rad
5January 3, 2013 by little hurdles big race
I received so much support today via email and at work that I feel truly overwhelmed. I knew that people were interested in my journey – but I had no idea they were that interested…ha ha!
I was going to talk today about choosing a gym or not choosing a gym. I think that having a workout plan and schedule is half the battle – but I have a much more interesting subject for you.
COLOR ME RAD!!!
This is what looks to me like the most fun of all the 5K’s that I’ve seen so far. You run/walk in all white (or at least a white t-shirt) while other runners/volunteers pelt you with colored cornstarch or some kind of colored liquid. People go in large groups and by the end are totally covered and look so beautiful in all their stunning color! Of course it is completely washable – but there are instructions on the Color Me Rad site on how to set the color in your t-shirt for all the memories. This is really what exercise should be about for you- fun or at least enjoyable. Yes, I said it – fun!
If you dread going to the gym or if you hate doing your exercise tape – then you are doing the wrong thing. I always tell people who want to start some level of exercise to start by doing something they enjoy. It doesn’t have to be the sweat inducing, high-calorie burn that you see all the skinny girls/muscle heads doing at the gym…work at your own pace. I started by swimming. I love swimming. As long as I could remember I’ve been in love with the water – I was even a lifeguard. For an exercise – here is the secret, you don’t really sweat and you work so many muscle groups all in one workout. I set a goal, 10 laps then 20 laps. I gradually moved on to weight training, and other modes of working out. But I assure you that if I didn’t have the access to the pool – I would have never started.
I had a friend tell me the other day she was a lazy exerciser – she likes taking long walks around her neighborhood. She’s always been a walker – that’s great exercise and that works for her. What works for you? Hate the treadmill? Ride the bike. Hate the stationary bike bc it hurts your lady/man parts? Try the recumbent bike or bike ride outside with a real comfy seat. Try the StairMaster – don’t laugh I have learned to enjoy the StairMaster! Play the wii, walk on the beach, or walk the dog around the neighborhood instead of letting him out in the yard (the best part is Fido will love you for it). I know so many people that absolutely love Zumba – me not so much. You know that movie White Men Can’t Jump? Well, this white girl cannot line dance. Have you ever seen people come out of a Zumba class? They are absolutely drenched with sweat but boy they look like they have just had the time of their lives. That’s what I wish for you to be happy with whatever you do with your fitness plan and in life. I assure you that once you become happy with your plan then your goals will get bigger and stronger.
Don’t waste one more day wishing you had done something.
If you live in the VB area and want to join me on May 5th at the VB Sportsplex for the Color Me Rad 5K – just let me know. Check out http://www.colormerad.com for a race near you!
little hurdles big race 
Hey Kathy!
I had seen your before and after pictures on FaceBook last year and was amazed by what you had accomplished. I’m enjoying reading your blog. What a journey you’ve been on. You’re so right about doing something you love. This year I ran/walked my first 5k. I’ve never been interested in running a race, but I got the idea in my head, and having the goal of the race kept me motivated all summer. I find that what’s fun for me is a combo of walking and running. Running down hills and walking up hills. Running till I’m tired of it and then walking without pushing myself, just doing whichever one I feel like. It’s just fun! All the best to you as you continue on your way. Well done!! -Lauren
Thanks Lauren. That’s exactly how I do my 5K’s too. More power walking than running – the finish line is the goal not my time. I have walked about an 11:30 minute mile as my fastest, which for “walking” is patty fast. I usually fall somewhere in the 12+ range. As long as we are out there doing it – that’s all that matters!
(repost from FB)
I’ve only known you now for *almost* a year but am truly inspired by your weigh tloss journey!
You are proof that weight loss goes WELLLL beyond the actual weight itself. Special K has it right when they ask, “what will you gain when you lose?”
As the months pass on and I continue to get to know you, I have seen bigger smiles and more light in your eyes! All in all, even with a stressful job, I’ve noticed, LESS STRESS!
Keep doing what you’re doing Kathy and keep shining!!! I’m honored to be a part of PBG in this year’s Color Me Rad VA BEACH! (I’ve clearly written my own blog about this…LOL) *BEAM*
Thanks so much Nina for your support and for passing the word along. I can’t wait for the polar plunge AND Color Me Rad!!! We are taking back our lives and dragging our friends with us I hope,
KLM I’m reading, I’m inspired. Not enough to get off my duff yet. I hate it all. Couch potato all the way but I need to figure out something. Growing up a tall skinny girl I never had to do a thing. That perk has deserted me. Sigh.