It is March 20th and I am making slow but steady progress toward the weight loss goal of 40 pounds. From an exercise perspective, I have decided to stop cheating myself during workouts.

Historically I have not been known as one of the hardest workers on an athletic team. I have been fortunate in that my natural abilities came somewhat easily but I know that the intensity needs to be turned up in order to really see the results.

The necessary evil is hitting the treadmill and sticking with the running program this time. While we do need to get on the bicycles for Tuscany, the steady diet of running is getting more enjoyable. This is saying a lot as I do not like to run long distances, and that is putting it mildly. I supported my wife as she trained for two marathons one year and thought that she was crazy for even attempting that.

The minimum mileage per week has been established at 14 miles to start.