After a bit of pause in my regular exercise routine during the wedding festivities in November and followed by post-wedding commitments in December 2024, January marked a return to consistency with running. The relatively mild winter this year made it easier to maintain a steady running schedule in the gym. The controlled environment of the indoor treadmill helped maintain a good pace without weather-related disruptions, and I managed to complete 100 kilometers this month. This achievement sets a positive tone for the year ahead, especially considering the two-month break that preceded it.
The indoor running sessions provided a structured approach to getting back into the exercise routine. The gym's controlled temperature and timing flexibility helped maintain consistency, which was crucial for reaching the 100km a month mark. The reduced severity of winter this year played a significant role in maintaining motivation, as the morning commute to the gym wasn't hindered by extreme cold. This steady progress has helped rebuild the stamina that naturally decreased during the wedding-related break in routine.
Looking ahead to February, I plan to add swimming back into my exercise schedule. The decision to resume swimming comes from the gradual warming of weather and the need to diversify the exercise routine. Swimming complements running well, offering a full-body workout while being gentle on the joints. The combination of running and swimming should help maintain overall fitness levels while preventing workout monotony. The improving weather conditions suggest that outdoor running might also become more feasible in the coming months.
The January achievement of 100 kilometers sets a strong foundation for the broader goal of completing 1000 kilometers in 2025. While this target requires consistent effort throughout the year, averaging about 83 kilometers monthly, the strong start in January provides good momentum. The gradual improvement in weather conditions should support this goal, making it easier to maintain and potentially exceed monthly targets. The addition of swimming to the routine should help maintain overall fitness levels, potentially making the running goals more achievable. Though the 1000km yearly target seems challenging, especially considering potential disruptions and schedule changes, the January performance provides a realistic basis for optimism.