Ancillary Benefits

In my first job out of college, I worked as an accountant at a large auditing firm. On one of my engagements, (a small hospital) I learned about the concept of ancillary benefits.

During this whole training effort, I have been reminded of what ancillary benefits can be achieved when making a dedication to health and fitness.

I got up this morning, and got dressed. In the past, I would get to this point in the week, and all of the clothes that fit me, I had already worn. Thursday and Friday typically had been the days to wear the things that I never feel as comfortable in.

Well today I realized that my usual Thursday shirt and pants fit very comfortably, and that my usual belt notch was feeling a bit loose. I went to the next notch. Still a little loose. I went to the next one...but there weren't any more! I got a big smile on my face, because I can now look forward to Thursday and Friday as days where I won't be uncomfortable.

I am planning a long run tonight, and after a couple of efforts this weekend, I am feeling good about my progress towards the 1/2 marathon. I ran 7 miles on Sunday, and did the 6.82 miles in the first hour. If I can get the running up to about 10 miles or more before the race, I am going to feel prepared.