Sister is on a mission to become a better biker. Or a biker who can stand the pain. In order to get from point A to point B, Sister has had to create a bit of a program she can realistically folllow without giving up and letting her lazy genes take over.
Let’s get one think straight. In order to get better, stronger and more fierce, pain is going to be part of the process. Learn to love the pain. Hurts so good…(name that song). What Sister has learned over the years is that one’s perspective is the rate-limiting factor to success. (Did you know that phosphofructokinase (PFK) is the rate limiting enzyme in the glycolytic pathway? The more of it, the better energy transfer). So, in theory, the better one’s perspective is, the more positive workout. Don’t ask how this analogy was derived. Sister’s mind is always working.
Sister has discovered a bike route that can be completed in one hour (as of now), is moderately hilly, is close to home and has an adequate bike lane. The first time she tried it, she thought she was going to die. Three days later she did it again. It didn’t hurt as much. The next time she will do it, she will go faster – and feel more pain. She likens this to a staircase appoach to getting stronger. She will keep telling herself that this is a good thing. Once home, her day will be better. Brighter. Looking back, she realizes all that uncomfortable-ness was worth it. Life is better with pain. Huh?
Everyone has their own tolerance for getting stronger. Completing one more rep, one more leg lift, etc….The key is to tune into what works for you. Be honest with yourself and make goals realistic. For example, if a sedentary sister wants to lose weight, a walking program can be a great tool toward success. Depending on initial fitness, three days per week for 20-30 minutes might be a realistic place to start. After one week, add in a fourth day. Then increase the time to 30-40 minutes. Then add a fifth day in at 20-30 minutes. Do you see what is going on here? GRADUAL adaptation to a new behavior. Setting yourself up for success. Although uncomfortable at times, this sedentary sister needs to adapt her perspective to like to uncomfortable-ness. That my friends, is the answer to life.
Let’s get going, girlfriends!
“Hurts So Good” by John Cougar Mellencamp. Sister has the 45 record. If you can download this song, it will help you through the tough times. Here’s to feeling the pain. Stay tuned. More physiology lessons to come.