Saturday, August 8, 2009

Mission Accomplished!!!

Remember my mission from earlier this week? I was challenged to do something new at least 3 times this week, and I chose the elliptical machine. The goal was 10 minutes on this piece of equipment that kicks my butt everytime I try to do it. Because of that, I've always stopped after only a minute or so on it. It always felt like that machine had my number...it was as if every time I looked over at it from the treadmill, it was taunting me and laughing, because I kept giving up on it. I tried not to look at it when I wasn't working out on the other equipment, so I wouldn't constantly think about how I spent good money on that thing but was afraid to use it.

This week I was determined that even if it did kick my butt, I was going to put up a good fight. The first day was Monday, and I went for 5 minutes, took a minute break, and then got back on to do the other 5 minutes. On Wednesday I went the entire 10 minutes without stopping. I was so sore all over, but it felt great...and it was SO worth it! I began to feel stronger, not just in my body, but stronger in mind and spirit as well.

Last night was the third time on the machine, and I definitely felt more confident when I approached it. As I got closer to the 10 minute mark, I started thinking that I needed to better my time, even if only by a small amount. I kept going and made it to a little over 12 minutes. That may not seem like a lot...but it is absolutely a victory for me!

I'm so thankful that I had this challenge...it made me face that old "I can't" mentality that has kept me overweight for years. What an awesome feeling to conquer that elliptical! I don't imagine it teasing me anymore, because I know now that I can do it!

5 comments:

Marcelle said...

Fantastic, am so pleased u have taken up this challenge, soon you will love that piece of equipement.

I started like this on the treadmill with running...exactly like you and today I can run for an hour without stopping...amazing how the body adjusts..

Next week you'll be doing 15 minutes...watch!!

iampalegreen said...

Woo Hoo! Good for you! :)

Kristine said...

All right, Marie!!!

Kristina said...

Way to go! Congrats! I just bought a treadmill and hoping it will "kick my butt" OFF my body that is! lol Keep it up!

Mesha said...

way to face those fears. proud of you! i'm totally catching up on SYTYCD now - i am SOOO behind. Oh my!