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Sunday, February 13, 2011

Getting Outside My Comfort Zone - Let Me Clarify

I posted this morning about my yearly goal of doing something physically outside my comfort zone. It doesn't have to be running-related - I count ziplining in 2009 and hot air ballooning in 2010 because heights make me nervous and I can be claustrophic (important when you are stuck in a balloon in the air!). But it can be running-related too, like doing my first 25K at 5 1/2 months pregnant, at midnight in July in Texas heat.

I was looking for suggestions for 2011. Great suggestions, guys, but not all in the realm of what I was thinking. The big thing is I'm a mom of two so it can't be a continuously time-consuming thing. I'm looking more for a one-time adventure. I've done yoga before and it would be really great for running to return to it (thanks, Michelle). And I've heard great things from those who do Crossfit, and in another life, I'd have the time to spend on it (thanks, Vishal). But I'm limited by somewhat my "running monogamy" (thanks, Sue). I have time for one sport only in my life at this point.

So I just want to clarify... I need an adventure that could be termed "uncomfortable". For example, in future years, as I don't foresee a vacation to a locale that would permit this, I would like to parasail (can't swim, deep water scares me, and heights issues), and do that thing where you wear a helmet and walk around on the sea floor (thanks, The Bachelor on ABC, for giving me the idea). And I really thought someone would suggest skydiving - which is a veto here. Uh uh, that one's never going to happen.

So keep them coming. I know I will accomplish the goal in one regard already because I am signed up for my first trail race, Hells Hills 25K on April 2, and of course it's also only my second time doing a 25K. But more suggestions, running and not running-related, are appreciated.

Rock-climbing as Vishal suggested, is intriguing, but do I need to "train up", or can I go somewhere pretty with assistance like a group and do it safely while still be fascinating?

Trapeze lessons, as Leah suggested, sounds crazy cool and fitting in the goal completely. But sounds like I should stipulate another requirement. Low likelihood of injury! Can't have the adventure mess up my ability to care for two small children or affect my running. I don't "fall well", seriously, so for now, trapeze is out. But high wire with a harness sounds fun.

Off to brainstorm. I can't wait to see what crazy fun ideas people come up with!

9 comments:

  1. Two additions: there are indoor rock climbing gyms where you're hooked into a harness and totally safe. I think the most fun part is the rappelling down. Trapeze lessons - we did them over holiday - you're also in a harness with someone spotting. The most chance of injury there are smacking yourself on the bar or ripping open a blister on your hand (I did both, was back to regular workouts after a day off). Hope you find something cool! :)

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  2. http://flyawayindoorskydiving.com/pf.html

    Let the good times begin!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Cat

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  3. And then crossfit next year ;)

    Cat

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  4. Okay, trapeze is back on the table then! And indoor skydiving would totally fit the bill - the lack of control of having my feet off the ground would be totally petrifying for me! Love these ideas. And yes, once kiddos get to school age, it will be so much easier to do those happy mommy 9 am yoga & group fitness classes, and work in crossfit.

    Keep the suggestions coming.

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  5. I know it may not be exciting, but I was going to try one of the Dallas or Fort Worth stair climb events....A lot of states have one for the American Lung Association. And if you ever go somewhere with snow I beleive I have read about snowshoe running....

    Trish

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  6. Oops. No coffee yet. I can spell believe...I just can't type it!

    Trish

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  7. What about the skycoaster? The big swing thing at malibu off 35? That's a quick thing that's super fun. My Dad had me go with him since he is also afraid of heights. I thought he was going to break my hand from holding it so tighly, but he enjoyed it and so did I.

    I went skydiving a few years ago and LOVED it. I can't wait to go again.

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  8. How about hiking and backpacking in Montana. I hear the scerery is beautiful.

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  9. awww man, I bet you'd love sky diving.

    well...I LOVE it:) I roped my hubs into it and I doubt he'll do it again lol

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