I have been having issues with my foot for over a year now, and it has progressively gotten worse (probably a collapsed arch from the looks of it). After some denial I have finally committed to getting it treated and admitted to myself that running is definitely out of the picture, maybe forever. I have been running for as long as I can remember. My favourite run was to the pier in Port Dalhousie.  I have done hill sprints on the Green Ribbon trail countless times, and lace up every year on Christmas Day regardless of the weather. I have discovered Toronto via the hills of Caledonia Road and Eg West, would run home from Cumbrae's Bayview, and relished the trails leading up to Mount Pleasant Cemetary. I have gotten lost near the Brickworks, run to appointments, run with my clients, run to escape. Despite short little legs, never being interested in logging distance or challenging my times, I have logged miles in over the years. It is the form of exercise you can do almost anywhere.

While my foot is irritating, I never once panicked that my physique or fitness level would be affected.  When you are passionate about something, there is nothing that will prevent you from doing what you love and what you consider important. I already miss running, but it is really not the end of the world.  I am mostly upset that I will be missing my bonding time with Sierra (the dog)  but I'm sure we will figure out something else. She has taught me to be very fast, my partner in crime. I have even said that I the reason I love her so much is because she my running buddy. However, there is no reason to sulk over a (potentially treatable) foot injury-- it is just a minor blip in the road.

Part of the reason I have been so level headed over the injury is probably because I have been very inspired as of late. With the recent Para-Pan Am's and many facebook memes showing disabled athletes, I became very aware of how possible it is to be fit despite physical restrictions. To overcome a debilitating obstacle that makes daily tasks of living difficult, is truly special. While all athletes are to be admired, these people even more so. I think it is so important to appreciate what we can do, and to be creative in finding ways to do it.

 After recently missing 5 full days of workouts in a row, I remembered what it felt like to be "unmotivated." To drag my butt to the gym and suffer through a few workouts, and then be sore and achy for days afterwards was something I do not wish to repeat anytime soon. But in a way it was beneficial because it reminded me of how many of my clients and many of the general population feel (because most of them really don't love it). Working out is not always fun and enjoyable. Sometimes it is a necessary evil.

No excuses.
I have an older client who has had a hip replacement, knee surgery, has COPD, arthritis and recent wrist surgery and a fall. In the last year she has missed maybe 1 workout. They aren't always full workouts, but she shows up regardless. This is perseverance.

For me, a workout out is the equivalent of taking a mood stabilizer. Instant pick me, instant reset when done on a regular basis. After missing 2 or more days of workouts, I don't feel like myself.  I tell you this as a reminder-- from someone who is consistent. I am writing this for my clients and those reading who don't enjoy exercise. Those who haven't yet seen results or gotten the physical benefits from regular workouts. Please keep trying. Remember that you are trying to be active for a healthy future, a healthy brain, healthy bones, healthy heart, to be able keep up with your kids. Remember this next time you'd rather press snooze than go to the gym, or stay on the couch after work, or skip your yoga class.

Try to find an activity that you enjoy, find a partner, but don't make excuses. Embrace what your body can do and get it moving. Think of your workout as medicine. Not always fun, but a necessary part of  your routine.