Here we are at Week #2 of the PHIT Challenge! My challenge for you guys this week is CARDIO! Before you hit that X in the top corner, please hear me out :) Wherever you are on the cardio spectrum, I want you to push yourself to the next level. If you are not doing anything on your off days, then you need to start... if you want to see results. If you are currently walking, add some run/jog intervals. If you are currently running, run longer/more/harder/add sprint intervals. Basically, just take your cardio up a notch.

I'd like for you consider the COUCH TO 5K program. (If you'd like to train for something longer, I'd love to help you put a plan together.) Couch to 5K is a 9 week running program. It is a gradual schedule that takes you all the way from 0 miles to 3.1 miles. The first few weeks may seem frustrating... hard... just plain horrible, but I PROMISE, if you are anything like me, it could possibly be the missing link in the progress/success you've been looking for. For me, running is a mental/emotional escape that I have come to look forward to. The key for me is to commit with a friend. The time, central location, and person, are all things that I've locked in on and will not cancel unless circumstances are dire. It is also a thigh shrinker for my stubborn legs.

If you are not yet convinced, please know that the plan is EASY... there's mobile app (C25K). So, find a first-rate friend that you can pour your soul to on the flats, and that will push you through the hills, and get going! I encourage you to start this week (so we can run a race together in March ;) ). The St. Patrick's Day Run is the goal! It's on March 17th... in Athens, no less... and has a 5k and 10K option, depending on your goal. For more info: www.utscetner.com/race Apparently bagpipes sound at the start! Come on PHIT followers! I'll be right there with you :)