In 2019, our Hawthorn team all decided that we would aim to complete a physical goal that was way beyond our capabilities from that current point in time. The goal had to be something that both scared and excited us at the same time. A goal that was pushing us physically and mentally. We have called this our "Stretch Goal"
1. What is your Stretch Goal and why have you chosen this?
My stretch goal is an Adventure race in October. You ask what's an Adventure race? It consists of a 38km Mountain bike leg, 26km Kayak and to finish with a 25km trail run. I'm excited by the unknown and the different type of training required for an Adventure race. Challenging myself in different events has always motivated me. First of all, I know this will stretch me between the 3 disciplines, next the training leading up to it will be tough and finally I'm not sure how long this event will take me, a great result would be around 6 hours but realistically it could be well over 8 hours, possibly more!
2. What are you going to ensure happens to achieve this goal and what does your training look like?
I am going to train. But I'm going to train properly. Currently I'm rehabbing and strengthening my lower back/glutes/hamstrings while loosening my hip flexors. As I experience issues with these areas when I compete in any endurance events.
Throughout the year I'll be completing The Trail Running Series with is 5 trail runs around Victoria leading up to my Adventure Race. This will the prefect training leading into it for the trail run leg of the Adventure race.
Currently I'm on the lookout to purchase a Mountain Bike as my brother stole my one but that's another story. Once I've found the right bike, I'll be riding along all the dirt tracks by the Yarra river around Fairfield and even explore out to Lysterfield Lake and Mount Dandenong.
3. What scares you the most about your goal?
I wouldn't say scared because nothing scares me but I'm excited, excited for the unknown and upcoming challenges. Different styles of training are also something I'm excited for as I love a challenge.
4. What are you most excited for?
Like the above, it's all about the training leading up to the event. The morning of an event is when I know I'm excited for it, I'll have butterflies in my stomach and struggle to sit still.
5. What difference is this going to make to you after you have achieved this goal?
It'll be the accomplishment of completing something I never thought I could. But the lead up and training going into the Adventure race is going to mean a lot to me. Focusing on my discipline to stick to a structured training plan to get me to achieving my goal.
6. Do you have any tips/tricks for someone who is thinking about pushing their own comfort zone with health and fitness?
Do you ever think "Geez I'd love to be able to complete that event but I could never do that" or "I really want to do that but I'll never be fit or strong enough"? To me those are most exciting goals and the goals someone is really passionate about. First of all, you need to share it with someone, ideally your trainer, then they can set a plan, make it realistic and coach you to your goal. Making that "Geez I'd love to be able to complete that event but I could never do that" into a reality.
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
