Running toward the Hollywood sign this morning in Bronson Canyon, I had an out-of-body experience.
What do I mean?
I think we've all had one, actually. Have you ever been engrossed in thought or activity when that perfect song comes up on your iPod, XM, Pandora, or even good ol' FM radio? It reflects your mood, your attitude and state of mind in that moment. And the moment becomes illuminated, transformed. Heightened. Intensified. Unforgettable.
It's as if you are watching yourself experience the moment from afar, because you know every nano-second of the experience is being hard-wired into your brain for the rest of your life.
That happened to me this morning, running up one of the steep grades on the way to overlooking cloudy Los Angeles atop the Hollywood sign. It was already a good morning, despite a late start. The weather was crisp, the traffic was light, and despite two back-to-back days of two-a-day workouts (and one late night out), I was feeling fine. Better than fine, even though I think I've got a head cold from Mullet Man.
My heart-rate was at my Zone 3 threshold (roughly 155 bpm) and I was working hard to keep it in check by alternating between jogging and walking.
Then, the theme from "Rocky" popped up on my iPod Nano, right as I was reaching a summit and turning a corner to see the big iconic symbol of Los Angeles peek into view, up close and personal.
The music transformed what would have been a nice moment into something special. Into something powerful. Into a belief that no hill was too high or too challenging. That no challenge couldn't be overcome with enough hard work, sweat, focus, planning and grit.
It was at this moment, alone on a Saturday morning trail run, where I realized that I could become an Ironman.
It's within reach. It's not a fantasy.
Ironman is my Apollo Creed or Clubber Lang, I guess.
And ya know what, "you ain't so bad!"
***
Quick shout-out to my good friend, TJ. He was nice enough to mention that my Ironman journey has helped him think of what his own personal Ironman challenge should be. He's embarking on something big to help his writing career, and I think he'll make it happen.
That's really what this blog is about. If I can help motivate people to think of how they, too, can find their own personal Ironman and accomplish their goals...then I would be incredibly proud and grateful.
I hope you'll join TJ and me.
353 days and counting.
Hey Ryan (and TJ!)
ReplyDeleteThe music track thing is something I can completely appreciate. The strangest example I have is when The Imperial March came on my iPod the very second I walked out of the barriers at a massive, crowded Underground station in London. I genuinely felt like a seven foot high sith lord as unfortunate rebel scum bounced out of my path. Power commuting. It was awesome.
I am going to give this some serious thought. I need a challenge and, since you are taking a huge one on, I am going to make sure I at least lay out some goals for the next year.
Speak soon
Nick (erm ... Robinson, from SCEE ... just in case)
Ryan Schneider, I'm following you! Fun to read about your personal journey! I know you have an awesome fan base that's gonna support your journey to IM AZ!!
ReplyDeleteNick, that Star Wars comment is vivid. And totally badass. As for your challenge, I'm so stoked for you. It's invigorating to find something worth pursuing and then going after it.
ReplyDeleteErica, I was so happy to see your name on here. Thanks for the follow. You and Anat have made my life better for being a part of it. Looking forward to many more good times and your pursuit of IM Coeur de Lane.