It is that time of month to recognize a Fit Parent. This is someone who inspires me (or you, the readers) to go after your fitness goals, live an active life and set the example for your family.
This month I was biased in picking this person, but I just couldn’t resist. I am so proud of my “stepdad” and Claire and Max’s Papaw Thom.
Meet Thom
At 55 years of age, Thom trained for and completed the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon, his first marathon, with an impressive time of 5:08:53.
Thom has not always been a runner, in fact, he didn’t start running until later in life. He and my mom actually met at a local running club. Since then, he has also become an avid spinner and takes her spin classes weekly.
What impresses me most about Thom is his dedication. He set his mind to running this marathon and was not going to let anything stop him: not his age, not his job… nothing. He has a hectic work schedule: he works long days and spends a lot of time traveling for work. Even when he was traveling, he familiarized himself with the area and got in his training runs. When they would come to visit us for the weekend, he always made sure he was not skipping a run even if that meant he had to get up earlier than the rest of us.
It doesn’t matter when you start your fitness journey, what matters is that you have one… Thom is a prime example of this.
If he hasn’t already inspired you, let him do so now…
Q: What inspires you?
Thom: The need to be happy and and to enjoy each day. The person who inspires me is your Mother (and no, I am not just saying this because you are asking me).
Q: How do you make time in your busy schedule for your own health & fitness?
Thom: I know that my mind operates better after a good workout and when I feel fit. So I make time to workout to feel better for work. The limited time I take from work to ‘workout’ pays back multiple times in the amount and quality of work I complete.
Q: What is your favorite workout?
Thom: Runs of 7 or so miles, lifting weights, spinning
Q: What is your favorite thing to do with your family (little and big family members included)?
Thom: Being together outside and at our house, going on runs together, visiting the zoo, going to the lake and skiing.
Q: What is up next? You just ran a full marathon, what is the next goal you have for yourself?
Thom: Even though I promised myself I was one and done, I already want to better my marathon time. Before I do that I want to get my half marathon time to under 2 hours again. The training for the marathon helped me realize it is very obtainable. Ideally I would like to set a PR of under 1:57.
Your turn- tell me!
What person has inspired you this month?
How do you get motivation to make fitness a priority?
Did you miss our other FitParent features? Check them out!
September’s FitParent, Farrah
October’s FitParent, Lydia
I agree, Sarah! I have to take care of myself before I can give 100% to taking care of my family.