I'm a little bit of an outdoor enthusiast and engage in outdoor sports. I would love to consider climbing Mount Everest someday. Some might wonder what it is like to train for extreme sports and activities. The wild is not like sports played in a controlled environment. The outdoors is nature and holds real risks for people beyond sprained ankles and bruised egos.
There is lots of learning. Whenever I can I read about the topic, watch videos, and engage in a community of people who do these types of activities. Having as much knowledge as possible before heading out on a risky adventure can make a big difference.
For example, this morning it is cold (i.e. 20 degrees) and freezing and wind is whipping making it feel much colder. It is also 4:30 in the morning and I'm having a quick cup of coffee before I head out to jog around Big Bear Lake.
Sure....I could go to a gym and workout in comfort. Yet that doesn't mimic what happens in the real world on the side of a mountain where the wind can knock you off of a cliff face. Add some snow and things can get real tricky (likely why I have to go to the U.P. and Colorado to do some ice climbing).
It would be much better to stay in bed and sleep. However, it wouldn't be as meaningful life as I could make it. It would sort of just be "safe" and normal. I guess I'm just not normal and enjoy challenges when they are worth the effort.
The real reward is how you feel when you are done. You went out and ran in the cold! You trained and you did most of your workout while most people are still sleeping. As your body gets into better shape and you get closer to your goals...you can take pleasure in taking the road less traveled.
Done with coffee! Brrrrrrrr!
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