We all have those struggles when we finally get motivated enough to go outside either for a run, a bike ride, or a walk, and we encounter hills! Some hills are worse than others, but they all present different challenges. Personally, I like hills. They are a great way to work on leg strength, and they definitely build confidence. If you can take on hills, then you feel like you can take on anything. The other important point: What goes up, must come down! Life has its ups and downs too! Sarah and I were out in Deadwood these last few days for our annual Family Medicine Conference. It was held at The Lodge. For those of you familiar with this place, it sits on top of a hill…more like a mountain! So no matter what direction you take off for a run, you are going to encounter big hills. We went on our usual 4 mile run. The first mile is all up, then the second mile all down, turn around, and come back. That 3rd mile coming up I think we needed a rope! We had to stop twice because our lungs and legs were definitely burning! It was a workout. Sarah is looking at me as we are climbing, and wondering: What the Hill???
This is what we were looking at!
The next shots are each of us as we continue to climb up hill…again, more like up mountain!
This next shot is what greeted us at the top of the first mile.
The road was named “Moon Mountain”! How appropriate! Hills truly are a good thing. You definitely work harder when you are running, or walking/biking them. Many people fear them. Just think of them as opportunities to prove to yourself that you are stronger than you think! Don’t think of them as hills…think of them as “mounds of opportunities”!
Life has its times when there are ups and down. Things are not always pleasant, but when you get done “climbing” some of those obstacles in your life, you feel better about things, and yourself. You feel like nothing can stand in your way. Bring it on! See the benefits hills can bring. I hear it all of the time when it comes to our annual Hospital Hill run itself. “Why do we have to do this hill?” “Why does the finish line have to be at the top of the hill?” REMEMBER: “Mounds of opportunities”! Hills build strength, character, and confidence. Don’t fear them…take them on! Challenge yourself! You will surprise yourself what you are capable of doing! Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 3770
