#15: Iron Will & Hard Work

After finishing a half IRONMAN last week and as I prepare for a full 140.6 IRONMAN (which is in two weeks) I hear a lot of people respond by saying “I wish I could complete an IRONMAN…” A big-ol’ ‘but’ usually follows and some type of physical or financial excuse to entry. Some tell me they are too old (but are certainly younger than the 87-year-old record holder). Others express a bad knee, hip, or ‘insert ailing body part here’ to prevent their participation (although most competing athletes are working through some type of injury themselves). 

But I am here to say that neither physical nor financial barriers will keep you from becoming an IRONMAN. The only thing keeping you from that title is yourself. As a social worker and community college employee, my husband and my combined income is below the IRONMAN average. So, we were not buying the best of everything, nor paying a premium for coaches and a-la-carte extras. Instead, we focused on what we needed and made it work. I completed 6 full IRONMANs and several half IRONMANs using my $800 bike. I purchased a wetsuit at an outlet for $100 and invested in a good pair of running shoes that run a bit over $100. I have a gym membership and will see a chiropractor when necessary (but not regularly). When we travel for races, we stay outside of the main city to save money. We also make lifestyle choices to live modestly and eat at home. These choices (or “sacrifices”) enable us to participate (and the experiences mean more than anything money could buy). 

An IRONMAN triathlon is a physical feat, that is true. A full IRONMAN consists of a 2.4-mile open-water swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. To complete this race, you must have fortitude. Fortitude is the strength of mind that helps a person overcome challenge, pain, and adversity with courage. And this fortitude is required beyond race day alone. I go to bed early, I eat a balanced diet, and I am at the gym while most of the world sleeps every morning. The discipline and dedication required to get a 2–3-hour workout in every day is imperative (yet the average person would not be willing to do this). I believe success is 80% mind and 20% body. While I am a firm believer in listening to our bodies, I too value challenging ourselves and trying. I do not let a fall off my bike or tendonitis in my hip stop me from trying. My consistent effort, determination, and discipline earned me the right to be called an IRONMAN. 
 
I proudly wear this title because of everything that finish line represents. There is so much joy in overcoming extreme challenges physically and mentally.  I know many reading this have no desire to become an IRONMAN, but I’m sure there is something in your life that you want to accomplish or a challenge that is on your mind.  Ask yourself if you are prepared to come out of your comfort zone.  It may be something that is not a physical feat but possibly a lifestyle change that will bring increased happiness to your life. Don’t be afraid to take on the challenge, just be prepared to put in the work.  To be an IRONMAN or accomplish your life goals you will need an iron will, everything else is just a detail that you can overcome. 
 
“ENDURANCE IS ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT DISCIPLINES, BUT IT IS TO THE ONE WHO ENDURES THAT THE FINAL VICTORY COMES” -BUDDHA

Until Next Monday…