The Farthest I’ve Ever Been

“If I take one more step, it’ll be the farthest away from home I’ve ever been.” — Samwise Gamgee, The Fellowship of the Ring

That line has been rattling around in my head this week, because I’m in uncharted territory. Not geographically, but with consistency. I’ve never strung together this much gym and running work without burning out. Usually by week four or five I’ve hit a wall, either physically from under-recovery, or from cutting food too hard, or mentally by not trusting the process. But this time? I’m still here, still going, and still moving forward.

Consistency = Uncharted Territory

Old me would hammer workouts, under-eat, then flame out. This version of me is pacing things: lifting three times a week, hitting every Runna workout, logging supportive cardio with the dogs or on the walking pad, and actually recovering and “trying” to eat the way my body needs. It feels strange, but in a good way. I’m no longer waiting for the crash, I’m watching the habits start to stick.

The Wins Beyond the Scale

The scale has been bouncing within a two-pound window. Old me would be losing my mind over that. But here’s the truth: It is still driving me a bit bonkers, but I also realize that my waist is continuing to trend down from Phase 1, my lifts are climbing, and my runs are getting longer, and somewhat easier. I’m fitter now than when I started, even if the number on the scale doesn’t scream it yet.

Runna & Recovery = The Secret Sauce

Letting Runna handle my progression has been a game-changer. Intervals and long runs bump up gradually, keeping my calves from revolting like they did when I tried to push too far, too fast. On top of that, I’m eating enough to recover. It feels weird not to be starving and sore all the time, but that’s exactly why I’m still here in Week 3 of Phase 2 instead of sidelined.

Looking Ahead

This isn’t about arriving anywhere, it’s about seeing how far this road really goes. Like Sam, I’ve stepped beyond the point I’ve ever been before. The question now is: how much farther can I go? The answer is coming one rep, one run, and one week at a time.

Still lifting. Still losing. Still showing up. Usually.