Sometimes, you’re inspired by someone so unexpectedly. Sometimes, that inspiration is like a new top. Fits nicely, hugs the right places and hangs well. Gives you nothing but quiet, understated confidence to undertake new challenges.
A friend from high school moved back to Tampa recently, and he’s a fitness fiend. Not because he’s body-obsessed…he just loves the rush. Those types are always hooked on the things I only do on occasion: running, biking, spinning. He also loves yoga, throwing around weights at the gym…and just about anything that requires physical exertion. Looking great is just a pleasant sidebar. He returned to coach youth rowing, which was one of his preferred (and perfected) sports in college. In spending time with him, he’s so positive and chipper, it’s hard not to buy his brand of sunshine and endorphins.
Sunday, although I hadn’t been in a year, I took him to yoga in the park at dusk. It was much-needed (I don’t stretch enough), and a beautiful sunset.
Monday I worked out in the early morning, before work, instead of my standard 9pm at night. He gets up every day at 5am to run, or hit the gym, or bike, and being a proud non-morning person, I felt a bit lazy in his shadow.
Tuesday, in the spirit of diversification, I swam some laps at the Y. A tight speedo as part of the ensemble (the only part) didn’t hurt the novelty, although I truly relished getting to glide through the water like I used to. I learned to swim at the same pool! And I’m a water sign…
Wednesday, continuing the theme, I saddled up to the solitary rowing erg machine at the gym and put in some sweat and effort. It felt great to try something new (although I’ve done that more recently than anything). You always know something has worked your muscles out because they’re sore the next day, which means they’re broken down and regrowing bigger and stronger.
At this point, he and I have some plans to try paddleboarding, hit the rowboats on the river, and I am devising a way to have regular pool access. This is in addition to regularly running sprints, and of course, pushing weights. I love it all, but sometimes it takes a close friend to pull you into the exciting world you might otherwise ignore or forget. Does anyone inspire you to try new ways of working out?
As an interesting sidebar, I happened to document some of this week in pictures of my legs. Enjoy! I may keep it up, and make it an #instathing. 🙂
