Skirt Culture

I call it Adult-Onset Athleticism.

You wake up one day and think "I'm going to start running."

The idea sounds so positive, full of health and energy and of course weight loss. Increased sex drive too, you almost feel like jumping your husband just thinking about what great shape you'll soon be in. It can be triggered by watching an athletic event, listening to someone in the grocery store tell their marathon tale to a friend, or just because you need a challenge, something out of your comfort zone. But then reality sinks in..."How on earth do I get started?" This thought is even scarier if your revelation includes a triathlon. Bikes, helmets, shoes, more shoes, goggles, not to mention food and drink and omg, too much to process. Yes, it seems overwhelming, but it can actually be very easy if you follow these simple steps.

Outline a "get started" budget to include the following:

• SkirtSports training clothes. Okay, this is a given. But I must repeat that you will need to stay motivated through your training and inspirational SkirtSports apparel definitely helps. ($150)
• Running shoes. Go to your local running store, they will help you find the perfect starter shoe. ($75-150)
• Tri equipment which can include a bike (I suggest borrowing one for your first season, but make sure it fits you), helmet, a pool pass, goggles, and more...

Now that you are outfitted, the training begins:

1. Focus on a goal that is not weight-loss oriented. I always suggest an event of some sort. If you are a beginner runner, choose a local 5k. If you are a beginner triathlete, choose a sprint distance tri (.5 mile swim, 13 mile bike, 3.1 mile run). Sign up for the event. Pay money; you are now obligated. Oh boy!
2. Tell people. Don't be shy. At a recent speaking engagement, a woman came up to me and whispered, "I'm going to do a triathlon. I have only told one person and now you." That little confession makes it real.
3. Start asking questions. One of the most important mantras I apply to business and sports is: learn from others. Everyone loves to talk about what they've done.
4. Get a calendar and work backward from the race date. How many weeks do you have? Be sure you have 6 months if you are a true AOA.
5. Start working out. The keys are consistency and form. Work on both. I cannot go into training details here, but will post some training plans down the road. In the meantime, look for a training group and get your butt out the door.

Do not give up. The Skirt Way is to tackle seemingly impossible goals, surprise even yourself with your greatness and move on to the next. There is no time to wait around and let things happen to you. I didn't wait until the world was ready for SkirtSports, I took a big leap and look what happened. So get off the couch. Do it now or do it never.