Getting in Shape at 50!

Running the Mid Distance Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
Day 75, November 15, 2010
Team Buzzsaw / Stewart Taylor Printing

These are my 3 sons, Brody 17, Parker 19 and Ben 15. Hunting season is a great time for us to do something together. Our shack "Wolfpiss Lodge" is in Finland, MN on 40 acres. We are surrounded by miles of untouched beauty of the Nature Conservancy and Government land. It usually ends up being a good workout every time up there because of the nature of the place. No water or electricity and everything needs to be hauled in. As I walked for over 30 hours this deer hunting season, again getting skunked, I thought a lot about how the sport of mushing has transformed me. Physically, mentally and spiritually.....yes I said spiritually. I know it sounds wack (sorry, I have teenagers) but it has been an awakening of sorts, stirring my soul by trying something different, something new, something that has breathed life back into a 50 year old body. One main reason I am doing this is for the kids. I want them to see the old man be an athlete and for them to learn to push yourself even when it isn't pretty. This race is challenging and my goal is to be in the best shape that I can to run those hills on that trail. For training, I am running lots of hills, but lately I have been taking a pilates class. Pilates is the best overall workout there is, period. No matter how old or young you are, you deserve it to yourself to check out a class or two. There are different levels of pilates classes, but they are as easy or as hard as you want them to be. I have taken an "easy" class but found myself pushing my limits.....which made it hard. I have had "hard" classes and found myself laying off when it got too difficult, making it easier. Just read your body, you will know what you can and can't do. It just takes the effort to make it to class for a few sessions, then it all comes together. First your core becomes stronger, then everything else gets stronger and easier after that. Got tight hammies? This is a great stretching and strengthening exercise for them. The Edge Pilates Studio in Duluth is a great example of a first rate operation with professional teachers. Most Pilates classes are a bit spendier than a generic gym membership, but the benefits are multiplied. With a pilates class,you get what you pay for. Between The Edge Pilates Studio, Anytime Fitness, John Stetson, Linda Nervick and the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, I am getting in shape again at 50 years old.............my hammies and my spirit thank you!