MELISA'S STRETCH GOAL FOR 2019
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 to complete the Spartan Beast (a 21km course with 40 obstacles) in under 4 hours and 15 mins. I chose this goal due to the fact that it combines a lot of aspects of exercise that I enjoy - endurance, strength, calisthenics, trail running, hills, harsh conditions and variety that I really do enjoy and have fun with! Most importantly the challenge really gets me going and motivates me to do my best! In short, I love the variety and challenge that it provides.
2. What are you going to do to ensure happens to achieve this goal and what does your training look like?
My training at the moment is quite diverse - running, resistance training - both lifting and calisthenics, rock climbing and bouldering, hiking long distances, trail running, and a lot of stretching, which is as equally important given that 'strength is a skill' as told by my trainer Matt. Last year I had an epiphany, which made me change the way I treated my recovery, which was little to none. After several injuries that happened in a very short span of time, I've learned to sleep better and longer, make sure I'm getting the nutrients my body needs to recover and taking rest days - basically I listen to my Trainer.
3. What scares you the most about your goal?
The fact that I set out a goal to finish it in a much faster time than I did last time really scares me. This time I want to be on that podium! Mount Mystic in Bright was a real challenge and it will be again. The Stepper, Stadium Stomp and hiking up mountains will ensure that I get the training I need. However, the real challenge is to keep the training consistent no matter what life throws at me!
4. What are you most excited for?
I'm excited to see how much I can improve in the time that I have got to train. To know that I can do anything I want with my body is a thrilling sensation!
5. What difference is this going to make to you after you have achieved this goal?
The whole experience - training up to the event and the event itself will also mean that I'll tick off a lot of other goals for all the other sports I enjoy. This year I aim to improve on every aspect of my health and fitness. It's about the journey and not just about the event.
6. Do you have any tips/tricks for someone who is thinking about pushing their own comfort zone with health and fitness?
Speak to your Trainer! Find out what your abilities are and what you need to be working/focusing on. It's all about the mindset - if you start to believe that you can't reach your potential then you never will - if you speak to your Trainer and talk about your concerns, whether they are about existing injuries or concerns you may have about the training load, or simply lacking confidence - this is what we're here for! To help you get there by identifying your needs, that you potentially can not recognise by yourself. The most significant advice that I can give you is to be open and talk to your Trainer - they can and want to help you!
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
