Physical Challenges
I’d just been for an easy walk and had stopped at a bench next to the beach to have a stretch. Down the beach was a boot camp, and the trainer had the participants pouring buckets of water over their heads. I could not help but have a laugh to myself! At first I wondered why on earth would you pay someone so they can yell at you to pour a bucket of water over your head! Secondly, I guessed that the majority of the participants did not require this level of strength and fitness in their everyday work or life. But it did get me thinking about the physical challenges non professional athletes will put themselves through.
I have always cycled since high school, not for any competitive reason just because I love being out on the bike. I can remember the first time i cycled 100 km and the first time I cycled up Springbrook here on the Gold Coast. At the time, this felt monumental to me as it pushed me well outside of what I thoughts my physical limits were. As we fast forward to now, I cycle 100 km on an consistent basis and have climbed Springbrook and many other climbs on the coast numerous times. A few weeks ago I completed the Careflight Base to Base cycle challenge of cycling 260 km from the Gold Coast to Toowoomba in a day.
When I talk to friends now on the weekend, the question is how far did you ride today. My answered is followed by a look of disbelief! I know some of my friends think I’m crazy! Thinking about it know I’m wondering what makes me any different to the guys pouring water over their heads or others who complete other physical challenges. So why do we do this to ourselves? I thought I’d ask around to find out.
These answers come from people who have competed in Ironman Triathlons, Tough Mudders, Marathons and Bootcamps.
“The feeling of accomplishment.”
“I’ve always wanted to do that.”
“My motivation is to rise to a challenge and then get the very best out of myself.”
“Pushing myself outside of my comfort zone.”
Now to participate in any physical challenges it doesn’t have to be anything ‘crazy’ like an Ironman Triathlon or a Marathon. But why not set yourself a goal that is outside of your comfort zone and current level of fitness and go for it! I know from my experience and from talking to others that you will be amazed at what you can achieve. But I will warm you that once you have done something like this there may be no going back! Let us know what are some physical challenges you have always wanted to try?
In case you do not know where to get started, here are some links to some events on the coast here that might be physical challenges for you
Challenge Gold Coast Triathlon
