I entered the YMCA early this morning with quite a bit of trepidation. Will I really be able to do this? Am I going to make a fool of myself in the pool? We'll soon find out.....
Good news.....they're running a free week membership promo! Another coincidence? I received a quick tour of the facilities, thinking the whole time, "Hurry up! I just want to get to the pool!" The familiar smell of chlorine and locker room assaults my senses and brings back a whole host of memories.....swimming lessons, diving practice, high school PE, teaching my boys to swim.
Luckily, there is only one other swimmer, a teenage girl diligently swimming laps while her mother sits in a chair on the pool apron, reading a book. The girl is swimming a steady pace in good form. I decided not to wear my swim cap, only my goggles for this initial swim. Big mistake! Halfway into my first lap, my hair is getting in my mouth every time I take a breath. By the time I reach the other side, I am already winded....not a good sign. The girl next to me is a machine, performing lap after lap, only changing her stroke twice to get a break. Oh brother, what have I gotten myself into? I continue swimming, changing between freestyle, breast stroke, and side stroke to keep myself from drowning. I exit the pool long before my poolmate shows any sign of slowing down.
The result? Well, I haven't quit but I did realize just how out of shape I am. I've also realized there is a huge difference between swimming around and swimming laps! I also know that I'll have to do more out of water training in addition to my 6 miles on the bike or 3 miles on the treadmill each day. And, it takes longer than three days for the effects of 20 years of off and on smoking to wear off and optimal lung capacity to return!
I am still determined and my goal is still 2015. I know that, with lots and lots of work, my body will reshape and reform to it's peak performance level. (whatever that is for a 37-year-old, mother of three who has a desk job)
Baby steps, Emily, baby steps!
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You can do it, Emily! Just stick with it and remember that through small measures, great things can be accomplished. I'll be following you every blog along the way! I told the kids my goal was to be present when swim the English Channel cheering you on every stroke of the way!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sarah! I appreciate your support so much!
ReplyDeleteEm