About a month ago we posted about a workout goal of ours: successfully running a 5k. Since then we have been running several times a week and training for that race.
In an effort to round out our fitness routine we’ve also decided to take part in the several workout challenges.
Last year we tried the “Hundred Push-Up Challenge” but were not able to stick with it and complete it. At the end I was able to do about 65 push-ups, which is pretty darn good, but isn’t a full hundred… and will sheepishly admit to giving it up.
This year the person who came up with the hundred pushup challenge also came up with a few others: two hundred sit-ups, and two hundred squats. The idea of each one is to reach a fitness goal (a certain number of each exercise) in 6 weeks of consistent training outlined by the sites.
It’s going to be a summer of workout challenges but we are excited!
Last week I did the initial test for all three and here were my results:
- Push-ups: 22
- this is better than last years initial test of 14, even without consistent work
- This puts me at level 3, the middle range
- Squats: 45
- my legs are one of the strongest parts of my body from running and skiing
- This puts me at the “very good” level, the upper middle range
- Sit-ups: 19
- He calls sit-ups what I consider crunches. I am better at “traditional” situps but they are supposed to be bad for your back. I’ve always struggled with ab workouts and crunches, and this is definitely going to be the hardest challenge for me
- This puts me at “poor” level
Currently the plan is to alternate between the push-ups and sit-ups challenges, doing one every other day to allow rest in between. After completing those two I will work on squats.
Today was the first day I started the official training. This morning before breakfast I did 51 pushups in several rounds (10, 12, 7, 7, 15) and it felt great. After work I’ll go for a 5k run, and then tomorrow I’ll start day one of the sit-up challenge.
Having a set program with a specific goal really helps me stay motivated with exercise. I usually start off excited to work out and gung-ho about it, but the enthusiasm seldom lasts. Knowing that there is a set goal and deadline for it (like the race) really helps keep me going when motivation starts to lag. I think that is why so many people pay for gyms and other community work out facilities – the community, and shared motivation and goals are important in staying in a routine.
In an effort to be held accountable I’m going to post my progress at the end of each week. Feel free to join in the workout challenges and post your own progress as well!
Related posts:
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I had looked at the hundred push ups website after you mentioned it last year and had been hoping there was one for sit ups as well. I may end up 'joining' you on your journey to 100 puch ups, 200 sit ups, and 200 squats. Though I'm sure i'll be starting at a MUCH lower level!
Any steps taken toward improved physical fitness provide insurance for a stronger and better future, which is why I love the 100 pushup challenge. Count me in! I'm a student preparing for medical board exams, but I think that taking time for this will be a good thing and lead to better physical and mental strength. Count me in, too! Congrats on making this great step… and good luck!
Jerry
I tried the push up one before but it got kind of tough in the fourth week. Instead I'm trying http://thepushupchallenge.com instead. It takes a bit longer (60 days) so hopefuly it'll be a bit more manageable. The training is every other day though instead of just three times a week.