As a triathlete training in three disciplines (bike, swim, run), I do one of each type of exercise at least two times a week largely on my own because it’s tough to schedule my workouts with others around my work schedule. That said, when I go to the pool, I often see many of the same people. While I don’t work out with any of them or hang out with them off the pool deck, I chat with them and know a little bit about their lives.
On Friday, I jumped in the pool, sharing the lane with one of the regulars, and a younger woman asked if she could join. We switched from splitting the lane to circling, and I quickly saw that this woman was fast, faster than most of the other women who swim at our pool. Anytime a faster person joins, it ups the intensity with which I swim, whether I want to or not. I found myself swimming with a little more power and energy for the rest of the session, surprising myself with my times.
When our workouts were winding down, I stopped and asked her a little about her swimming background. Sometimes a conversation like that will just be of the moment, quick and easy, but we chatted there and then kept talking after.
There is a gift in a one time meeting that may become more. There is a possibility for a friendship, and also for a fun way to push a little harder! When I jump into the pool next time, and she is there, I will be sure to connect with her and push myself. And perhaps we will continue to connect outside of pool hours, too. Regardless of what happens, I’m grateful for this experience!
At Stoking Radiance (or any place where you go to work out), whether you work with a trainer one on one or you go to a group fitness classes, there is a shared connection around goals, a potential for greater strength and deeper mindfulness, a kind of friendship that grows, and also a tapping into a bigger community which can help elevate you physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually.
If you have been sensing that you need a place where you can get accountability, find connection, push a little beyond your comfort zone, tap into a community where you can grow, I highly recommend finding a place.
You are always invited to join us at Stoking Radiance, and this week (April 4 and 5, 2024), we have two days of free classes as I celebrate the opening of my Palo Alto studio with a Grand Opening. If you are interested in checking out Stoking Radiance Fitness in Palo Alto on April 4 and 5, here’s the schedule. Sign up for a class or just come by to see the studio! If you’d like to try a class at another time, reach out to me at sara@saramooser.com.