Learn to walk before you run.
– Proverb
A few days ago a friend of mine asked me what I would like for my birthday. I was a little confused, in part because my birthday was over 3 weeks ago. She was disappointed that she had missed my surprise party but still wanted to get me something. I scratched my head. I wasn’t sure what to say. A bottle of wine? Some running gear? Truth is, most of the “things” that I want are in the “too expensive to ask a friend” category (KSO Treks, a watch, hatphones, a new iMac). I asked her to let me think about it for a day, but as I walked away, inspiration hit!
“You know what you could get me for my birthday?”
“No, that’s why I’m asking.”
“I’d like you to walk 30 miles in 21 days.”
There was a pause and a look.
“Walking for who?” she asked. She obviously thought I was asking her to join a charity team.
“For me! I want you to start walking. 30 miles in 21 days. You’re always talking about how you want to get started. Well, let’s call it a present for you and for me.”
She laughed. Unfortunately, I’m pretty sure she’s not going to do it (though she is thinking about it), but it got me wondering. What if we all did something like that. Asking people for the gift of their health – it’s a win-win situation. Recently Laurie over at My Big Walk posted an excerpt from an article in the Wall Street Journal on the incredible benefits of simply walking 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Breast cancer, colon cancer, Alzheimer’s, depression, high blood pressure and diabetes are among the several diseases and conditions that can have their likelihood reduced dramatically by the simple act of walking.
So in the spirit of my 2010 Challenge, I am adding the Gateway Challenge. I figure if I can get people to start walking regularly, maybe they will see the benefits of walking, and slowly graduate to running.
I like this so much I forwarded it to my sister in an attempt to get her out and moving.
That’s awesome! Thanks!
Shoulda known – you’re just another drug peddler.
This drug makes you healthy!
What a wonderful thing to request! Great idea! I love it!
Once again, you’re smarter than me. Key word: gateway. Brought a friend into Crossfit the other day who hadn’t hit the gym in 4 months, but who used to be quite fit. 4 days later and he was still so sore and roughed up he could barely walk… Says he’s coming back, but…