Just keep swimming.....

     This time of year, when the mornings are chilly (or just dang cold), I get these questions on almost a daily basis. It comes in three parts:"Did you swim this morning?" "Yes" I say... quickly followed by "Outside?" Again the answer is "yes" then followed by "Are you crazy?". I usually answer that one with a sarcastic laugh, but I have to say the answer to that is probably yes as well. (I am guessing many of you may have said that as well:) ). Since daily swims are part of my exercise adventure, I thought the coldest day in Phoenix this year would be the perfect day to explore just why I roll out of bed each morning and head to the pool.

The view of the pool from the parking lot of cold mornings

    Each weekday morning, about 4:45, my alarm cranks to life jolting me out of a deep slumber. I hit the snooze, roll over and snuggle on my deeply sleeping husband and contemplate just why any sane person would wake up while it was still dark outside. The covers are so warm and comfortable and each and every morning, it takes me a good five minutes to convince myself that I am already awake, I might as well get up and go to swim practice. Once that decision is made, I actually start getting a little excited about getting to practice, seeing my friends and starting my day with a great workout. I think there are a few factors that lead to me getting in the pool each morning but also I think are true for just about anyone who is or is wanting to get into a workout routine.
1. HAVING A SET PLAN
Knowing that practice starts at 5:30AM, or I have an appointment to lift weights at 5:00PM, makes it feel like a non-negotiable. I can't push it back a few minutes are do it later, it is then or not at all. Of course, no one is really making me go, but knowing that is the planned time helps motivate me to get out of bed and get going.
   I do this with my solo workouts as well. I actually plan and write the workouts in my calendar each week so I can find ways to fit it in my often crazy schedule.
2. MONEY
Investing a little cash into the deal seems to help me stay motivated. It could be that I am a bit of a cheapskate, but if I put money into something, I am going to be there. It does take a bit of budgeting and planning, but paying to be on the Masters swim team at Phoenix Swim Club or having a training once in a while to motivate me to lift is a great way to assure my butt will be there. Granted, I do a lot of stuff I do not pay for (running, biking etc...) but once I get in a workout mode, it is much easier to get out the door.
3. LIVING IN THE DESERT
This is really only true in the summer, but it gets you in the habit of getting up early. When the temperature is close to 100 degrees by 9AM, getting your run or ride in early is not a matter of discipline but a necessity of survival. While swimming at noon in the summer is sometimes an option, the sun beating down and baking your head through your swim cap is just no bueno.
4. FRIENDS
This may be one of the greatest motivators for me. I have some amazing friends in my workout world. At swim, I have some incredible women (and a few brave guys) that swim in our lanes. We call ourselves Team Hurricane because we are so fast we create our own vortex. (OK, we are in the slowest three lanes on the pool, but we at least we feel fast and I am guessing faster than those who are not in the water). This group of folks are not just workout buddies, but friends who over the years of braving the early morning darkness and cold of the pool, have become close and important friends. We celebrate our successes and support each other in our tough times in and out of the pool. I am so grateful for these folks, love them dearly and look forward to seeing them each morning.

Team Hurricane posing for a post swim photo op. Love these girls!

Notice the steam coming off the water. Makes getting in not too bad, but getting out is killer. 

   I also have meet some of the best people, and now friends, though the running and triathlon world. I see these folks on the canals and races as well as in the community. Knowing you will probably see a friend when you head out for a solo run/ride is a nice motivation as well. Also friends like Lisa M who will go try just about any workout or class with me is great fun.
5. HEALTH
It is a given that exercise is good for your health, but honestly, I feel so great after a workout. I have more energy, more confidence, more everything if I make time to take care of myself. Plus, the whole loving to eat thing makes it necessary. :)
5. SUPER SPOUSE
My husband makes this whole workout and race thing work. He also is an exercise guy so he gets the whole "need" to move, the crazy early alarms, and the one whole bathroom dedicated to wet workout clothes. There is nothing better than seeing his smiling face when I cross a finish line except the dry clothes he brings for me to change into for the ride home.
Thanks Mario and all my fun fitness friends. You are all my motivation.