Well, after nearly 4 months of training and hard work, I'm letting go of the dream to complete an Ironman Triathlon.
The Ironman has never been a lifelong dream of mine, but more of a challenge that would be cool to finish, like the marathon I did. Well the marathon didn't involve swimming. I started this journey to take a break from bodybuilding. I got my dad on board, now I don't want to bail on him, but I don't think I can do it. I'm finished, but plan to keep training with him when I'm in Tulsa to keep his dream alive and encourage him through the journey. In fact, 2 days ago we did a 45 min run (his longest training yet).
I have options of more lessons and Master's swimming, but I think we're at our financial limit with my hobbies. The Liniger family has dreams of being debt free and of home ownership. With the little one getting older and plans of future family growth, I can't hardly justify the cost of the Ironman anymore.
The running and biking have become more like chores as my training time increased and the swimming is grueling. Each day that I wake up, I do not look forward to the Tri training. I've recently compared it to doing laundry, something I hate doing, but feel a sense of accomplishment once completed.
I don't consider this experience a failure because I have learned a lot about myself. I feel that I could do the Ironman, but the cost and lack of enjoyment is not worth the family stress at this stage in my life.
For now, I'll do primarily bodybuilding training (which I LOVE!), but will keep running occasionally and do family bike rides/walks around the neighborhood.
6 comments:
In the words of one Mrs. Beth Fletcher, you are so game over! I support you no matter what so go for your dreams honey.
Well, I'm sorry to hear that the training has become a chore. But your reasoning sounds good, so I think this is the right decision.
But I must wonder when it comes to body building. Doesn't the food and shakes add up financially?
Aww I'm sad to hear we won't get to cheer you on, but you know what's best for your body and it sounds like you have very valid reasons. Why do something that is a mundane chore? Hence why I quit working out all together! Wait.. that's a bad example..
haha, Robin, love the comment ;) And Ben, sad to see you not do an Ironman! But I agree...sounds like some pretty valid reasons and just not a good match for you. And sounds like you'll sure love getting back into body building! So good luck with that! :)
I love hearing that you chose the "family man" life over the other. I glad that you were able to let go of it so easily. I'm sure you know this, but you can always train again, you can't always get back Benjamin's first years :-)
It has been such fun for me to have gone thru this early training with you. You have encouraged me a lot and I really appreciate the experience.
For you, it's not like it's a door closed. For now you've choosen not to pass thru. The door will stay open for years.
Dad
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