January

January is so often the time when we set goals, and things we want to do and focus on. I find myself doing this and picking maybe a few too many things. 

1. Hip/strength work: I know that my right side is stronger than my left, and this becomes more pronounced in my hips and glutes. Because these areas are vital to being a strong runner, I have a set of 4 exercises I am aiming to do 4 times a week.

  • Hip bridges (single leg and both legs)
  • Leg raises
  • Clam shells
  • Monster Walks
2. Crush Your Core 2 Program: This is a four week program in the Peloton app. I did the first CYC program twice and loved it. It is core work for 4-5 days a week, with the class lengths ranging from 5 and leading up to 20.

3. Leaving WW: Can't forget that one, and the massive impact that has. Writing my last post was what I needed to help me process. I was a bit naive to think I wouldn't have any negative responses. So I am working through that along with the whole leaving thing. 

4. Dogs need more activity: The dogs need more activity. Maverick had his annual check in today and Charlie had her flu shot. Each time they go to the vet they are up a bit (can't escape that f*ing scale can I haha). And I know it really comes down to their activity levels. So the plan is to start small, and play in the yard with the chuck it for 10 min a day this week. I am breaking it into two 5 min sessions. Hopefully next week we add in, and then more, getting up to 30. 

5. Power Zone Pack Winter Challenge: Six week challenge that is run by the Power Zone pack. This is a group of thousands of Peloton riders who join teams and then participate in a structured 6 week set of classes, with the goal of increasing FTP. We are in week 3. 

With this challenge happening, I am riding on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Swimming on Wednesday as well. Running on Tuesdays and Sundays. Strength for runners on Tuesdays, and aiming for upper body and lower body on other days. I haven't been as focused on strength as I had thought I would. 

I think thats all? And gosh, its more than enough. I also set a goal this year to work on my push ups and will think about that more in a few weeks when more of these items are set into habits and I've got the consistency I need. 

I certainly did not intend to end up with so much on my plate. And at this moment I am not really feeling like I want to take anything off my plate. I do know I have time for these items if I focus and make them a priority. We will see how the next week goes and if it isn't happening, I will step back on CYC2 because that really is the least important to me at this time.

Outside of all of that stuff, I've had two really lovely weekends. Last weekend I went to see Eileen and helped her sort her Christmas decorations. It was nice to just be helpful to her and see her check something big off her list. I then was able to go run by Lake St Clair for a nice change of scenery, and then visit my dad for a bit. This weekend we had our family Christmas. Pam came home, and we went to Detroit on Saturday. We kept it super simple for food and actually ordered Thai food and Mr C's Pizza. I don't know if there is a more Cole family combination than that haha. We just relaxed, opened presents, played with the boys, and of course all got to swoon over Aurelie. Sunday was spent going to Peanut Barrel, Costco, and Horrocks with Pam and TJ. 







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