By the end of the loop it became clear that something had gone wrong as it certainly felt like we were doing more than seven miles. We had to keep going though to get back to the car. Incredibly Deborah ran part of the way back, further challenging herself. At the end of the two hours and 34 minutes, we got in the car and rode the course, only to discover that it was 9.2 miles the way we walked the loop and seven miles if you started in the opposite direction.
We still enjoyed our walk and at the end of the day were actually glad that we had done the 9.2 miles. Although, we probably won't do the loop that way for quite awhile, it is a very good feeling knowing that because we have been conditioning ourselves and getting into shape that we are capable of rising to the 9.2 challenge. If you had asked any of us before Saturday to do a 9.2 walk, we probably would have said that we are not ready for that yet - but we were and we are. We are capable of more than we thought and we are stronger than we thought we were.
I have people call and email me that say that they can't exercise at all because of any injury. I understand how defeating having an injury can be. I have a heirniated disk, knee pain, ankle pain, and tendonitis. I still found something I was able to do that did not exaserbate my pre-existing conditions. I modified my movements, but I kept moving.
Look at wheelchair atheletes. Some of them don't even have legs and they are in excellent condition otherwise, with amazing looking arms, abs, and chests. They found something they could do despite their physical limitations.
Check with your doctor, find out if there is some excercise or movements he or she would prescribe or recommend. Perhaps ask if you could go see a physical therapist who might work with you on some exercises/movements.
Tony Horton says that if a part of his upper body is hurting or injured he works his lower body. If a part of his lower body is hurting or injured, he works his upper body. Don't do anything that is going to aggravate your injuries and do seek medical treatment. However, if you really want to get in shape and be fit, chances are that by working with medical professionals and others, you can find a way to do so despite any limitations you may have. You are stonger than you think you are. You are capable of more than you think.
Here is to another day of transformation!
Shawn Marie
