In December, one of my close friends suggested a 100-mile running challenge. It requires a minimum of 3.5 miles daily to complete 100 miles in 31 days, at a comfortable pace. I was hesitant because I had not been running every day. Nonetheless, I agreed.

I completed the challenge on December 31st. I lost a couple of pounds and improved my pace. Here are a few things that I learned from it:

1. Get An Accountability Partner

I did the 100 miles challenge in December with 8 other people. Not everyone was at the same pace but my friend certainly checked in on me. We would both check and talk about each other’s and our progress. We would brainstorm the strategies we had in mind to reach the goal. Committing to a fitness journey is more doable if someone is helping you to keep yourself accountable. I would recommend aligning yourself with someone who has a fitness journey going on or someone who is getting into it. Both are perfect because they are interested enough to stick with it.

2. Start slow

We can all easily agree that running is not for everyone. Hell, I’ve been running for almost four years yet some days I just hate it. This is probably harder for someone who doesn’t like to run. In this case, walking would be the next best alternative. 

The key is to start slow. Walk, use lighter weights, do fewer days and gently ease into a routine that works for you. Remain consistent and steady. You will eventually see results, I promise!

3. Keep it cheap

The push to keep up with your new year resolution induces a lot of pressure. It is easy to spend a lot of money on paying for a gym membership, buying new gear and clothes and paying for a personal trainer. Eventually we end up dropping off the routine and hate ourselves thereafter. 

Three words: Keep it cheap. Start with the outdoors(a park, a walkable route home), use YouTube & Instagram videos and your basic athletic clothes. You can reward yourself for consistency overtime. However, avoid splurging in the beginning.

4. Go easy on yourself

Committing to a fitness journey is not hard, even for fitness enthusiasts. I was not able to everyday in December. I ate junk food a few times and I nearly gave up on the challenge. I felt bad about these things nonetheless, I had to give myself grace and patience. 

Go easy on yourself. You will not achieve your fitness goals without patience and frankly, a bit of failure. Pick yourself up when this happens and keep going.