Day One – My Fitness Comeback Story

Rain, Reality, and a Plan

It’s Day Three.
It’s raining.
It’s Atlanta.
So, no surprises there.

Today’s plan was a one-hour endurance ride. And while the weather definitely canceled any thoughts of an outdoor adventure, it handed me something better—a reason to stay indoors, clip in, and stick to the promise I made to myself.

Not to crush it.
Not to compete.
But to show up.
Because here’s the truth: no one else is keeping score.

Stop Competing. Start Committing.

To be honest, I almost skipped today.
Lunch with a dear friend ran long. I was tired. I was tempted. And that familiar voice in my head? She’s very convincing:

“It’s just one workout…”
“You’ve been doing great…”
“You’ll get back on track tomorrow…”

But I’ve learned this: if it’s on the schedule, it’s not up for debate.

So I did it.
I showed up.
And while I didn’t expect to break any records—plot twist—I technically PR’d my 60-minute ride. Not because I’m in peak condition. But because I hadn’t ridden my Peloton long enough for a previous benchmark to exist.
(Shoutout to every fitness equipment owner who’s been there.)

Stats?
14.4 mph average speed.
518 calories burned.
Zero regrets.

The Numbers That Actually Matter

If you’ve been following this journey, you’ve likely heard me mention my weight. Right now, I’m at 180 pounds. And let me be clear—this number isn’t the goal. It’s simply data.

I’m not chasing a number on a scale.
I’m not measuring my worth by pace, PRs, or smartwatch metrics.

But I am paying attention to how I feel.
Right now? My body feels tight. My clothes feel snug. My cardio system? Not exactly thriving.

This isn’t about body shame. It’s about body awareness—taking stock, making adjustments, and choosing to move forward without judgment.

Battle Scars and Bruised Feet

Here’s the not-so-fun part:
My foot is bruised.

After yesterday’s run/walk, I noticed pain and discoloration on the top of my left foot. This foot has history—three surgeries in five years thanks to arthritis in the big toe joint. Plates. Fusions. Rehab. And now…this.

It’s frustrating.
But I’ve learned that pushing through pain isn’t brave—it’s foolish.

So I’m calling Dr. Phelps, my podiatrist.
Because the goal here isn’t to finish fast. It’s to stay in the game.

Rethinking the Finish Line

Mid-ride, I had a realization:
If I build my swim and bike strength, maybe I walk the half marathon and still make the cutoff time.

Maybe that’s not just “good enough”.
Maybe it’s exactly what this version of me needs.

Because what I’m after isn’t a medal.

It’s freedom.
It’s race-day joy.
It’s feeling strong in my body, steady in my spirit, and proud of the choices I made along the way.

A Nudge for You (and Me)

If you’ve been putting something off—your health, your goals, your healing—this is your nudge.

You don’t need perfect conditions.
You don’t need a PR.
You just need a start.

Maybe planting the tree 100 years ago would’ve been better. But guess what?

Today is still a damn good day to dig in and grow.

So saddle up.
Start where you are.
Show up.
Sweat a little.
Cry if you need to.

And always remember:

You’re not doing this for the world.
You’re doing it for you.

Let’s do this. Together.

—Angela
#SaveMyself #BeBraveBeBadass #ComeBackStory

Watch the whole story here: Save Myself Playlist

Subscribe here: Follow The Journey