Big Bear Mountain altitude

As I get older, I realize that my time to accomplish my “To-Do” list keeps on getting shorter and shorter. I have been thinking for some time now of becoming a “real” athlete. The word “real” of course has different meanings to different people. For me, it means accomplishing a marathon, a mud run or some other kind of athletic competition. Luckily, I live in Big Bear where year-round there are many athletic competitions.

Lately, I have been looking at the competitions that Open Air Big Bear promotes. They offer not only the extreme events, but they have many that seem doable for my skill level. First, let me give you a little history of my journey in becoming a healthier me and someday an athlete with some fun high altitude training in Big Bear.

I grew up in the era of pre-Internet and pre-handheld electronic days which meant I was usually outside climbing trees or riding my bike. When I wasn’t outside, I would go to my dance classes. Basically, I was moving all the time. Then as time continued on and I grew up, got a job, a husband, a home, had a family, responsibilities and about 90+ lbs. Somewhere in between childhood and now I had lost me and what I like to do. About five years ago I decided I needed to take some time and give it back to me. I was exhausted of doing everything for everyone and nothing for myself. I joined Weight Watchers and lost about 50 lbs with just eating right. I maintained that weight for the next few years, but I still wanted to lose more.

About a year ago, I started working out in the gym. I started with some of the classes like Zumba, Piloxing and Boot Camp. Since the weather in Big Bear is absolutely gorgeous during the summer months, I’ll ride the Sky Chair at Snow Summit to the top of the mountain and then hike down. Or talk a walk on the Alpine Pedal Path or rent a kayak at Captain John’s Marina. If you are visiting Big Bear, we have many gyms that charge per day usage fees as well. Exercising, what a life changer! For one hour a day I actually get to escape reality and just focus on me. For that hour, I don’t think about work or billings or any other responsibilities. I focus on me getting stronger and leaner. I am in control of what I what to become, an athlete. I still don’t consider myself an athlete just yet, but soon. I am not saying it is easy nor am I at my full potential, but I am saying it can be done. Eat smaller meals more often that are healthy choices, move your body, drink more water than you think you can and try to get some sleep. You have to do them all if you want results. I do track everything I eat with the app My Fitness Pal. If I can do it, anyone can. You can sit there and make excuses or you can make it happen. I made all those same excuses as you do and some were so ridiculous, I can’t even mention them. I was not ready to commit to myself. Since I started working out, I have lost another 40 lbs. I am now officially a healthy weight and feeling great! This is just how I was able to get healthy again. (Always consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.)