Ramping up

Ramping up has different connotations for different people.
Some it means having a ramp to walk up because they are out of shape, or even handicap.
Ramping up for me means doing something faster, harder, or both.
I am ramping up for the Detroit half marathon, I have increased my mileage to 10 miles every other day so that I can build my stamina.
I am ramping up for one of the biggest challenges I have faced in the athletic endeavor.
13.1 miles in under 3 hours, over the bridge, up hither and yon through Windsor and back through the tunnel and then through the streets of Detroit.
In thinking about how to ramp up my training, I came across a young fellow who was starting to exercise for the first time in years. Don't know why, but I suspect the. Fact he was over 600 lbs, had a lot to do with it. He was trying to walk around the same track we were practicing at.
I realized then that ramping up for a half marathon was nothing compared to what this young fellow was facing.
Te next time I went by him I said hey boss how you doing? He said hanging in there. The next time I went by I said good job keep it up. That got a smile and a nod and a thanks. That good job probably meant more to him than anything right then.
So the next time I moan about having to increase my mileage or dread heading out to train, I am going to think of that young man and get my ass in gear and go.
I hope I see him more often' as I will definitely continue to encourage him, and I hope he ramps it up to make his goals.
Take care
Check back later.
Randy

On the road again

I am back to my training schedule, I currently run 7 to 9 miles three days a week, and am building to 10 to 15.
I understand that it does not sound much to a regular marathoner, but going on 63 , I think 20 to 30 miles a week is excellent.
The Detroit international half marathon is a couple of month away, and I want to make a good showing. My first half marathon I came in at 2 hours 58 mins. I would like to better than time by at least one minute?
Each of us needs goals, and the only goal I have been able to set up that is remotely achievable, is running and health.
I guess a lot of people would love to be able to attain those goals.
However, when you have been at the pinnacle of success and then lost it all, it is hard to fight back to that high level of energy and goals.
I believe that one day I will get there, however, I do not see that happening in the near future, as the economy and job picture keeps making it harder for seniors to compete and prosper.
I think it is time for a change, Barack has not made it happen and I am disappointed in his efforts?
We need a stron fiscally conservative to straitened things out in our government.
So to all you liberal type, sorry I am going with Mitt.
Actually, it probably make no difference what I say, no one reads this blog anyway, but I get to spout off whatever I feel like.
Take care
Check back later
Randy