More of the Same

 My outlook has changed very little since my post on Monday. Each day has been more of the same. It took some convincing (from myself) to go to the gym last night. I really do not enjoy going. It is a both a mental and physical workout. The only reason I can find to go is that the reward of getting fit so that I can do the treks and hikes I want. To do that I have to work out this intensely. I do get a bit of satisfaction when I reach my workout goals, but the time and commitment are taking on toll on me mentally. 

I went last night as planned. I was doing really well on the stair master up to 1100 steps. My goal was 1225. I pushed through and made it, but my heart rate went a bit high (160 bpm) by the final 100 steps. I then got on the treadmill and really had to push myself to complete 30 minutes with just one series up to a 15% incline. By the time I got home I was really questioning my goals.... all of them. I am 65 years old! What am I doing?  What am I thinking? Am I fooling myself thinking I can get fit enough at this age to do multi-day mountain treks? I am starting to feel a bit discouraged. 

I will keep pushing myself though. I won't stop the workouts. I will get to 2000 steps on the stair master (unless it kills me first). I will head to Colorado in the Autumn and do my best to take on some challenging hikes and the Manitou Incline. Then I will have to make a decision. Have I improved enough that I can realistically achieve my trekking goals or should I scale back my dreams to something more attainable. In the long run I will have to decide which will make me happiest.