Seal Team PT: Week 1

I know I promised a recipe for Cinnamon French Toast cookies today, but I've been a little distracted with a new routine this week. As I mentioned on Monday, I started Seal Team PT's basic fitness class; and it's been a difficult--and, I'll admit, slightly emotional--first week.

You can find out more about the program by visiting the website (or clicking the image above).

 I consider myself in pretty good shape, just having run the Richmond Half Marathon last month; but I've quickly learned that being in Seal Team "pretty good shape" is a whole different ballgame. My biggest struggle this week...today...right now is accepting that I sit fairly low on the Seal Team fitness totem pole, no matter my perceived fitness level or physical appearance. Sure, I can run for two hours straight; but I can't do a "real" pull-up, more than 12 situps in 2 minutes, or figure out how to make my body do an atomic situp.

As a runner, I'm used to both listening to myself and being by myself. I make up the the rules and the workout. And during the workouts, its always just me and the road, no interference. It's relaxing and mind-clearing.

Sorry for stating the obvious, but group fitness isn't that. It's the absolute opposite.

Having instructors and other members tell me what to do, often things that I simply cannot do (yet), is flat-out upsetting--footnote: there's no actual yelling involved. And there's absolutely no time to clear your head, as you're constantly racing to the next exercise or thinking about how "out of shape" or behind you are. THEN, at night, you find yourself in bed, muscles throbbing and wondering if this is really such a good idea....It's a crazy, exhausting cycle.

You guys, I cried last night in my car when I couldn't find a parking spot near my apartment...but I know it was really because I am beaten, physically and mentally. You know how the military breaks you, then builds you up again? I think it's happening to me.

That being said, I want to be clear: I'm absolutely not complaining, I'm just trying to explain it. Can you tell this training is really hard for me!?

As it turns out, I am not alone. I have people to my left and right each evening, struggling to become their better self and encouraging me to do the same. This is different, very different...but a necessary different. As a Seal Team member, you are (duh) part of a team. Unlike other boot camps or fitness classes you come across, this team is positive and supportive of each other because you must function as a unit to complete workouts.

My body and mind are done for the week; so luckily there's motivation for showing up to tonight's class: we will be going out on the James River in boats! And as nervous as I'll be to return on Monday...I'll be there, fighting my demons and pushing my limits. Graduation isn't until next Friday; and, I'm fairly confident that there's something special going on here.

Hoo-yah!