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Monday, May 07, 2012
Not long ago I was touting the virtues of Barn Fit, that casual, versatile level of fitness that comes from shoveling manure, tossing hay, and running around after horses.
As long as you’re Barn Fit, you’re good.
Or not so much.
 Two forces have propelled me to seek a greater level of fitness: Cajoling teenagers and Cholesterol levels.
My sons and blood tests both claim I'm lame.
So I've dug my running shoes out of the closet and hit the pavement for the first time in years.
It hurts.
It’s nauseating.
It’s humbling.
I’d thought the ol’ body would grant me some credit, a hall pass of sorts for having strong arms and back. I could skip past the beginner stuff of aching muscles, short breath, and wavering will power.
No chance.
I thought my athletic past would help me out. I could magically revert to those days when I felt downright elated after running 10 miles. I could run 40 miles a week and not be crippled and complaining.
No dice.
I thought leg strength from riding would transfer and make running easier.
Forget about it.
In fact, from a muscular standpoint, it feels like Barn Fit and Gym Fit are  diametrically opposed.
But I’m determined to bridge the divide.
Why?
Teenagers, cholesterol, and my new bucket list item:
Ride & Tie.
Ride & Tie is two riders and one horse. Think leap frogging: One person rides ahead, ties the horse after a few miles, then starts running. Meanwhile, the runner catches up to the tied horse, mounts up, passes the runner, ties the horse, and starts running. And so on. For miles. Strategies are key.
Check it out!
And Build your Bucket List!
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