Every year I take on a big adventure. It typically takes place in the 3rd or 4th quarter and I slowly ramp up my fitness to take on the challenge.

My health and fitness goal since I have turned 40 has been FIT 41, 42 and 43, meaning being the fittest and healthiest I have ever been. There are many things that go into that, including training, nutrition, and mindset, and the moniker has kept me focused.

As I turn the corner into 2018 I am taking it to the next level. I need, want to be more consistent. I tend to take a physical and mental break in the first 3- 5 months.

What is the problem with that?

I lose much of the momentum from the previous year and start from scratch. I know the formula well, however, I feel like I am missing out on potential!

So the new moniker number, FIT 190 represents ideal weight for running my races and where I feel the lightest and most balanced! This is 7-10 lbs less than what I typically carry in the first half of the year.

So what will I focus on?

Weight

I have weighed myself every day for the last two years. It was a tactic, my nutritionist helped put into place well I was micro-focused on getting to ideal weight for a previous weight. It helps me be proactive before I get off track.

Alcohol

The extra calories and impact on energy really affect this goal. Every race I go to zero alcohol for at least 30-60 days prior to a race. I love my vino so as I try to maintain I need to make smarter choices. One – two glasses of wine instead two to three at a sitting and not completely letting go at high festivus times like holidays and work events.

Calorie in / Calorie out

One of the best ways to manage fitness is through nutrition and calories. Vegetables at every meal eating what is needed instead of what is wanted. Its a balance of looking at food as food vs. fuel. When I get into a high-performance mode I see it as fuel. Enough to get the car from point A to B.

Fasting

Many religions and culture have fasting built into their lifestyle. Many high-performance trainers and coaches will include fasting in their program. I have used to get extra edges on shape during training periods. I tend to lay off during offseason. A side benefit in my races, when you don’t feel well it’s hard to run and eat. Fasting helps you experience some of this challenge in training. I’ll be putting fasting on my plan weekly.

Training and accountability

What you do when no one else is looking is your opportunity to cave or to shine. Having a coach to instill best practices and accountability is key to sticking to a program and supporting you big hairy audacious goal.

To your and my fittest year ahead.

Colin