After completing the sprint and full distance triathlons last year, I am now hooked on that “crossing the finish line feeling!” The sense of achievement is overwhelming and the only way that I can see of topping that is to go even bigger this year – hence I’ll be competing in the Legend Sandman Triathlon.
Last year was very much about setting myself a challenge in an attempt to motivate myself to be more active; all whilst raising money for such an invaluable and great charity, Wirral Mind, whose mission is to make sure that no one has to face a mental health problem alone. What I didn’t appreciate at the time is that I would profit some of those mental health benefits by keeping active. This year is very much about keeping those benefits going while raising awareness of such a great cause!
I think that people underestimate quite how important doing exercise can be for our mental health. I don’t mean that you have to compete in any events , simply doing a couple 30 minute to an hour sessions a week at the gym (or whatever activity you enjoy) to shake off those 8 hour days sitting behind a desk is more than enough. I think that there is a common preconception that people should only exercise if they want to lose weight or look better, but for me, by far the most important thing is to blow off some steam if I’ve had a stressful day. Doing exercise helps me forget about whatever it is that has stressed me out and leaves me feeling refreshed and refocused ready for the next day. I would encourage anyone who is feeling stressed (and I think it’s fair to say that we all are at some point!) to not sit at home dwelling on work or whatever the reason may be for that stress, but, instead just get up and do a little exercise.
If you are like me and struggle to find that motivation to go sometimes, then set yourself a goal. My long-term goal is to eventually complete an iron man (in the distant future) and I have found that the best way to focus on training all year round.
Running has never been my strong suit, so I’ve also persuaded a couple of my friends to sign up with me. This has upped the stakes and given me some extra motivation, as whoever comes last will definitely be reminded of that for quite some time!
Over the next 7 months, Konrad will be tackling the following challenges;
- Anglesey Half Marathon – 1 March 2020;
- Dorney All Nations Sprint Triathlon – 9 May 2020;
- Slateman Triathlon – 14 June 2020;
- Abersoch Sprint Triathlon – 20 June 2020;
- Tour de Mon (106 mile bike ride around Anglesey) – 23 August 2020;
- Legend Sandman triathlon – September 2020;
While taking on the gruelling challenges, Konrad hopes to raise as much money as he can for our chosen charity of the year, Wirral Mind. If you would like support Konrad with a donation, please visit our Just Giving page.
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