IMG000068 (2)Prior to wonderful tools like mapquest and GPS devices, I was lost — literally.  I was seemingly born without map reading or folding skills.  The corner gas station– any corner gas station — was my best friend when I was attempting to get anywhere by car.  Unlike my husband, I embrace asking strangers for directions.

Beginning a journey toward improving your level of fitness without a specific goal in mind can be like driving without any sense of direction.   Unless you’re working toward something, it is often tough to stay motivated day after day after day after…you get the idea.

So pick something that interests you and get it on the calendar!  Maybe your kids’ school is having a walk-a-thon to raise money and you”ll make the decision to walk with them.  Maybe you’ve just had a baby and you’d like to get back in your pre-baby clothes by the first day of summer.  Or maybe you’re ready to commit to participating in — not just watching — the Fifth Third River Bank Run on Saturday, May 8.

2010 Fifth Third River Bank Run Training Guides, with training schedules for the 25K, 10K and 5K , are available at any West Michigan YMCA or Gazelle Sports’ location.  Or by emailing Race Headquarters at runinfo@53riverbankrun.com with your mailing address.  The Guide will act as your road map (much easier to fold than the one in your glove box) to better health, detailing the amount of walking and/or running you should be doing each day to safely cross the finish line the second Saturday of May.

Whatever you choose for your road map, choose it soon.  Then allow that goal to lead you toward a healthier — and happier — lifestyle.