Ok, not really a new direction, but I've taken up running as my chosen method of exercise. Gym- too many "you lift, bro?" people. Running lets me improve on my weak point (well, now it's pushups haha!), gives me some time to think, and goals I can reaching and resetting.
After not being able to run a 9 minute mile pre-BMT, I'm happy to say I can now consistently run a 5K under 30 minutes (even after a break from running while graduating one tech school and moving to another). I try to get people to join me- sometimes I succeed and sometimes I am running alone- I've come to enjoy both scenarios :)
My next step is a 10K. Running so much has shown me that it's important to have the right equipment. When I started, any shoe was fine, whatever I wore was fine- now I've gotten picky. I just bought new Brooks Launch 2 shoes- oh my goodness what a difference! I prefer to run in a sportsbra... but I feel that's frowned upon on base so I do pick lighter-weight tops now as I get very warm when I run. Running shorts are great; but why oh why don't ALL of them come with pockets now (preferably zippered)? Very easy feature to add.
Motivation can be tricky sometimes. Especially when it's hot and humid outside- I'm used to running in California where at it's worst I ran in the mist! I think I'm slowly getting used to it- definitely building up my strength and endurance.
I don't know if I'll ever reach that "runner's high"... let's be honest I run mostly because I have to, and now I can add because I want to see how far I can push myself. It feels good to say- I have this exercise goal now I need to reach it! (Can I also say- it's a self-improvement bullet that not too many people would have.)
