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2 weeks ago, I had the privilege of running through one of America’s most beautiful national parks with five good buddies — Patrick, Sam, Russell, Colby, and Parker. For nearly a year, we had been planning and training for the Rim to Rim to Rim run in the Grand Canyon. But due to wildfires, we pivoted to Plan B- Zion National Park. As with any endurance challenge (and honestly, as with life) you have to be ready to adapt to and overcome the day’s challenges. This was the first of many we would face on this adventure.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-0xywrzxrdjmi67nvsw"><img id="0xywrzxrdjmi67nvsw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3ajSOgM3Bjo0UsbMmfZbEiTW78WVNXD39OvYZs3bErk5CCeVpJXk6X2sUWoxozGx.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3ajSOgM3Bjo0UsbMmfZbEiTW78WVNXD39OvYZs3bErk5CCeVpJXk6X2sUWoxozGx.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>On November 7th, we pulled into the Lee Pass trailhead in the dark of early morning, carrying that familiar mix of nerves and excitement that precedes an absurdly big day. Headlamps flicked on, packs tightened, and at 6:00 a.m. we stepped onto the trail to begin the Zion Traverse: 40 miles, 5,500 feet of climbing, and a whole lot of unknowns between sunrise and whenever we would eventually stumble into The Grotto.&nbsp; <figure id="figure-9oi56tcqjmi67m196"><img id="9oi56tcqjmi67m196" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eKNg44tAuWukIT5dCeppwmMKyTymJn0ekMZDUVuRx9eDK83CijFFjLfTDxDlJxS.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eKNg44tAuWukIT5dCeppwmMKyTymJn0ekMZDUVuRx9eDK83CijFFjLfTDxDlJxS.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Miles 0–14:&nbsp;The early miles felt almost effortless. It was the kind of running where conversation flows easily. The sunrise painted the red rock in colors words struggle to describe. God’s creation was on full display, a constant reminder of His creativity and power. We were awestruck and felt grateful to be there. The group was tight, joking, settling into a rhythm, and having fun.<figure id="figure-kwpah1mg6mmi680f1w"><img id="kwpah1mg6mmi680f1w" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29bWXaPkdydwcQQRL4a6BhceJg9G7FfZwOhC4m6gq3nTRiSPZb8SYm0zaXgTHFNL.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29bWXaPkdydwcQQRL4a6BhceJg9G7FfZwOhC4m6gq3nTRiSPZb8SYm0zaXgTHFNL.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;"></figure>We hit our first crew rally point at Hop Valley (mile 14) feeling surprisingly strong considering the deep sand and dozens of water crossings we faced in the first segment. Our crew captain, Ken, had a makeshift aid station laid out like he’d been prepping for a military operation: gear organized, nutrition ready, encouragement in all the ways we needed. Spirits were high. Bodies felt good. The day felt wide open. After about 30 minutes, we were back on the trail.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-9ivuqpm3ddmi681tn3"><img id="9ivuqpm3ddmi681tn3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27yZHiHnbPutJp2dTtF66noAOtSHEjb6vbkzjMO786X986WP8oWJbA5innrbQpJi.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27yZHiHnbPutJp2dTtF66noAOtSHEjb6vbkzjMO786X986WP8oWJbA5innrbQpJi.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;"></figure>Miles 14–22:Sometime around mile 17, things started to turn for me. It began with that creeping nausea, subtle but unmistakable, and a growing sense of GI distress. My mistake? Trying to scarf down a turkey and cheese sandwich right out of the aid station. Note to self: solid food and bumpy miles of running are not my friend.It was early, much too early, to be feeling that way. I was worried and every ultrarunner knows that once the stomach goes south, the rest of the day becomes an ugly battle. We weren’t even halfway yet.<figure id="figure-8i7hl9fcznmi67x39p"><img id="8i7hl9fcznmi67x39p" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0IWEiX4Yk5cyaAqPzWYiF7qbyoNAlBlvGZ0Gvi55tgNLqn7rnXRUVm0lyNqDZGLM.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0IWEiX4Yk5cyaAqPzWYiF7qbyoNAlBlvGZ0Gvi55tgNLqn7rnXRUVm0lyNqDZGLM.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Still, we pushed on to West Rim trailhead (mile 22), where Ken met us again. I tried to reset, take in what I could, and regrouped mentally. By the end of the stop, I was feeling good again. With a renewed confidence that the task ahead was within reach, we set out for the longest stretch of the day.<figure id="figure-3510bd9xlomi67vri8"><img id="3510bd9xlomi67vri8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22nhSUIHBJCbppL8P9ebs9WZ9QWyYkTBqW3WrorY8CEPKOc9Z0ELTh3sUptm0AGh.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22nhSUIHBJCbppL8P9ebs9WZ9QWyYkTBqW3WrorY8CEPKOc9Z0ELTh3sUptm0AGh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp;Miles 22–36:These middle miles were the peak of the day. The views over Zion Canyon were unreal. The weather was perfect. Everyone felt strong. Morale soared. We found our stride, and for a stretch it felt like we were unstoppable.<figure id="figure-2fbiddba3fmi683b6f"><img id="2fbiddba3fmi683b6f" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19ByPsfqHtIclgJ1Eix4FqKqk0HE2l84X7KpEyqKBhtowhQx8WFZQ6ewVTNOdeER.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19ByPsfqHtIclgJ1Eix4FqKqk0HE2l84X7KpEyqKBhtowhQx8WFZQ6ewVTNOdeER.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>But I knew deep down that I hadn’t taken in enough fluids or calories. I was hoping I could outrun the consequences until we were safely out of the canyon. Boy was I wrong.As the sun set, we reached the final descent. That’s when the switch flipped. My stomach revolted once again. Nausea returned. Dehydration set in. My lightheadedness increased as daylight disappeared, and our team descended into the darkness of Zion Canyon guided only by our headlamps.By mile 36, my body was done. I got sick, emptying whatever was left and taking any remaining comfort with it. My tank was empty. The temperature dropped. The trail seemed longer with each step.<figure id="figure-1kg3v8z7emmi68bw8u"><img id="1kg3v8z7emmi68bw8u" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34QIdJbYyinNPox5ILCyc4bhNatIyZRKuFA1y3wMe92sB1o976FNaJe13GWVITWe.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34QIdJbYyinNPox5ILCyc4bhNatIyZRKuFA1y3wMe92sB1o976FNaJe13GWVITWe.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Yet even in that moment, the beauty of the place didn’t go away. The sun had dipped behind the canyon rim, and the silence of darkness and being in the middle of nowhere was surreal as we continued our descent. It was simultaneously one of the most stunning and most brutal moments of the entire day.Miles 36–40:Four miles with 3,000 feet of descent doesn’t sound like much until you’re depleted, dehydrated, shivering, and running on fumes. These last miles weren’t about heroics or adrenaline. They were about stubborn, consistent forward motion. One step at a time.<figure id="figure-z35xlit7s6mi68eeae"><img id="z35xlit7s6mi68eeae" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aHrBFl7SnDdUChOUH8blZ5KFVjRXkpHoMMca14UtfCy7IFWrKJGcQRcjhZQbe57.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aHrBFl7SnDdUChOUH8blZ5KFVjRXkpHoMMca14UtfCy7IFWrKJGcQRcjhZQbe57.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Like the body of Christ showing up for a brother or sister in their struggle, this is where the beauty of running with friends is displayed. When one person’s struggles, the rest have the opportunity to step up.&nbsp;And they did.Sam and Colby prayed aloud as we moved forward—simple, steady prayers asking for strength, protection, and endurance. Patrick stayed close to my side and communicated with Ken via radio, updating him on the situation. Russell and Parker ran ahead, ensuring we stayed on the right trail and moved efficiently toward the bottom.Everyone leaned in with exactly what they had. No complaining. No frustration. Just brothers stepping in where I needed them.Together, we moved as a unit toward The Grotto until we finally hit the bottom safely.The Finish line:After 11 hours of moving time and 14.5 hours total on the trail, we stepped off at The Grotto. Exhausted. Salt-stained. Humbled. Grateful. Welcomed by the relief of seeing Ken and the team van. We made it to the finish line.&nbsp;The fun didn’t stop there though. As a crew, we decided to make a pit stop at the local ER to get me an IV.&nbsp; 6 liters of fluids and a few slices of pizza later, I was revived. Crawling into bed that night felt like the real finish line.<figure id="figure-xwkqfqrshpmi68li89"><img id="xwkqfqrshpmi68li89" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/376C9O9QhsQA4dDCuMvLSSvO22INwZN1vmpUVnLUaUX5KsNv8PWmde6aRwx3cCF3.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/376C9O9QhsQA4dDCuMvLSSvO22INwZN1vmpUVnLUaUX5KsNv8PWmde6aRwx3cCF3.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure>Final Thoughts:The Zion Traverse knocked me down both physically and mentally. I didn’t run the day I imagined and I certainly didn’t want to be the one holding my team back. At the same time God taught me things I didn’t expect to learn out there.&nbsp;A sunrise start at Lee Pass. Two well-timed aid stations with a legendary crew captain. A team of six guys who refused to leave a brother behind. A canyon descent lit by headlamps and stubborn will. And four miles that reminded me what physical, mental and spiritual endurance often looks like.This wasn’t a comfortable adventure, but it was unforgettable. Not simply because of the unique challenges I faced, but because of the guys I conquered them with.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-t784r615kfmi68mt05"><img id="t784r615kfmi68mt05" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3ayGssHZiHg1PyuGAwtZ8I2h4Is9FsxGhZFnZpH1e5vKhdUSXDmhcsD82fyVnLb7.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3ayGssHZiHg1PyuGAwtZ8I2h4Is9FsxGhZFnZpH1e5vKhdUSXDmhcsD82fyVnLb7.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;"></figure>And through it all, God reminded me of this: strength isn’t proven in the moments when everything goes right. It’s revealed in the moments when nothing does – yet you choose to keep moving forward anyway.Keep pressing on!For His Glory.

The Zion Traverse 2025 - Miles of Beauty, Brotherhood, and My Breaking Point

Another Ironman is in the books and this one was my hardest yet.Ironman Texas 2025 marked my third full-distance Ironman and my first time racing in my home state. I had high hopes and big emotions heading into race day. But if I’m honest, this was the most physically demanding and mentally draining training block I’ve experienced so far. More than excitement, I found myself longing to simply reach the finish line — and clinging to the hope that I could get there.Race MorningThe alarm went off at 3:30 AM. Breakfast was my usual: a peanut butter and banana bagel and an iced coffee. By 5:00 AM I was in transition, checking my gear, and receiving the first curveball of the day. The water temperature had crept up overnight, making the race officially “wetsuit optional”. Not how I hoped to start the day, but that’s the nature of Ironman: adapt and move forward.The SwimI entered the water with William, a high school friend (also a fellow Ironman Chattanooga alum), but that was the last I saw of him that day.The rolling start didn’t relieve the congestion. From the beginning, I found myself fighting for position, swimming over people, getting swum over, and never really finding my rhythm. Around the one-mile mark, I finally found some space, but the damage was done: I was already feeling sluggish and off pace.As we turned into the canal for the final stretch, the crowd support was incredible. Spectators lined the sides, cheering, and I even spotted my wife, son, and mother-in-law walking alongside me. That moment gave me a much-needed morale boost in what otherwise felt like a rough 2.4 mile swim.<figure id="figure-q19covve2kma4qw5fi"><img id="q19covve2kma4qw5fi" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9YGHm9cUtCQi5CtjiHhrNx4rPW5GZ4PplNCF46zV4nelxckRUf0ulfnqUCrTm2wY.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9YGHm9cUtCQi5CtjiHhrNx4rPW5GZ4PplNCF46zV4nelxckRUf0ulfnqUCrTm2wY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Official Swim Time: 1:32:34&nbsp;The Bike&nbsp;Transition was quick, maybe too quick. In my rush to make up time, I missed the sunscreen table altogether. A decision I’d come to regret.The first 20 miles winding through the Woodlands felt strong. I hit the Hardy Toll Road feeling confident and dialed in. My fueling was on point, and I was sticking to my pacing plan. The headwind on the outbound portion was tough, but manageable. I stayed focused, knowing the punishing headwind would become a welcome tailwind on the return.And when that tailwind kicked in — I pushed. Hard. I clawed back some of the time I’d lost and entered the second loop back on pace. But the sun was brutal, and my exposed skin was burning. I could feel the energy slipping away. By the end of the bike leg, I was cooked — literally and figuratively. The marathon was looming, and I knew it was going to be a long one.<figure id="figure-nc0ovvaz9hma4qoxhj"><img id="nc0ovvaz9hma4qoxhj" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/255zCdgvWiZ215kUnNvF9wjbITYMO9Yeru9qBtVVi4x5S9BBY4XFfmoHPbyrCT3c.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/255zCdgvWiZ215kUnNvF9wjbITYMO9Yeru9qBtVVi4x5S9BBY4XFfmoHPbyrCT3c.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Official Bike Time: 6:11:48The Run&nbsp;Heat exhaustion was already knocking on the door as I started the run. My legs were heavy, the sun was relentless, and my knee wasn’t going to let me forget its nagging injury from months before. The marathon course is a three-loop, roughly 8.5-mile circuit and for me, it was a sufferfest from the start.I settled into a run/walk strategy and soon found a new ally in Dana, a 12x Ironman who became my teammate for those grueling first two loops. We shared stories and steps as the heat bore down. She told me the verse she was leaning on that day was John 19:30 - “Tetelestai. It is finished.” She said it reminded her that the victory was already won, and that she could release the pressure and simply enjoy the day.Her words and her friendship were a gift. She helped pull me through some of the darkest moments of the race when doubt crept in. I never got to thank her, but if you are reading this &nbsp;THANK YOU! You’re a rock star!By lap three, Dana and I got separated, but I wasn’t alone for long. I met Brad, a fellow Ironman who started his triathlon journey during COVID. We hit it off instantly, comparing stories and sharing laughs even in the middle of the suffering. He said we were trauma bonding lol.It struck me how much of this “solo” sport depends on community. I couldn’t have finished this race without the people God placed along the way and I am better for having met them.<figure id="figure-1nqyvrquqama5pcb5t"><img id="1nqyvrquqama5pcb5t" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6zftE47N0T0zqngY6l2VVOW9YROv5W8iSxu0qsnX9Nm94tyimtsvDFvce26llVEy.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6zftE47N0T0zqngY6l2VVOW9YROv5W8iSxu0qsnX9Nm94tyimtsvDFvce26llVEy.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 35%;"></figure>Official Run Time: 6:25:41 (ouch)The Finish&nbsp;I crossed the finish line exhausted, sunburned, and deeply grateful. This was far from a perfect race. The swim was rough. The sun scorched me on the bike. And the run — well, it was a grind every step of the way. But I made it. Ironman is not just simply about finish lines, it’s about who you become along the way. This race was not my prettiest, but I learned a lot about myself throughout the day. Especially during the run, when I was throwing up (twice), I kept asking myself: “Why keep going?" A finisher medal and t-shirt wasn’t enough motivation to put my body through that. I didn’t need to prove myself to anyone. 3 things kept me moving forward, refusing to give up:God – The ultimate finisher who strengthens us in our weakness. Family – My wife and son specifically. Their love, support, and presence reminded me why I do hard things. I strive to be the best I can be for them. Community – From strangers on the course to friends made mid-race, Ironman is full of people who encourage and carry each other to the finish.&nbsp; <figure id="figure-plk7mxa0nhma5penmz"><img id="plk7mxa0nhma5penmz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30KlUowgtLQPbcExnQNjpiCf25qhHEGU8mpEG1ju5TNVyVGeQbg7LDV6VbcQhI28.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30KlUowgtLQPbcExnQNjpiCf25qhHEGU8mpEG1ju5TNVyVGeQbg7LDV6VbcQhI28.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure>Official Finish Time: 14:31:34Thanks for reading. Ironman Texas 2025 broke me down, but it also built something deeper in me, something I’m still unpacking. It didn’t unfold the way I hoped for, but maybe that’s exactly how growth works: unpredictable, uncomfortable, and always worth it. I don’t know what’s next, but I know I’ll keep showing up and chasing growth, grit, and grace.Until next time!

2025 Ironman Texas - Race Report

New Year's Resolutions 2025 text on note pad stock photo on wood desk

As a Christian, if you’re looking for a New Year’s resolution or considering a change in how you eat and exercise for the new year, I want to offer an opportunity for a mindset shift. First, the desire to care for your body is a good thing. It’s not vain, nor is it separate from your spirituality. Instead, I believe it can and should be an act of honoring God with your body. The way we treat our bodies physically has profound effects on our spiritual lives, and embracing this connection can transform how you live and pursue your purpose.The Problem with the Typical Approach to Eating and FitnessThe typical American lifestyle often follows a pendulum pattern —swinging between two extremes: indulgence and guilt. One moment, we eat whatever we feel like or skip exercise entirely; the next, we impose strict diets or intense workout plans in an attempt to “make up for it.” This cycle leaves us feeling physically drained and spiritually burdened, which is far from God’s design for us. Instead of living in this unhealthy loop, I encourage you to consider embracing a different rhythm for the year ahead. An author I admire has described this approach to eating as a rhythm of fasting, feasting, and ordinary fare, but as an endurance coach, I would be remiss to not include exercise (intentional movement).A New Rhythm: Fasting, Feasting, Ordinary Fare, and Intentional Movement1. Fasting: Fasting is a spiritual discipline that reminds us we need God more than food (or whatever you are fasting from). It helps us resist our appetites and embrace prayer, grounding us in the truth that God is sufficient. This can take many forms, but realistically, aim to fast once a month. For example, I plan to fast on the first Sunday of each month this year, with additional fasts during seasons like Lent or when I’m joining someone in prayer. Fasting is a way to reorient our hearts and bodies toward dependence on God.2. Feasting: Feasting is about celebrating the goodness of God’s creation with gratitude and joy. Don’t think of it as “cheating” on a diet, but rather embracing the rhythm of enjoyment that God intends for us. For example, this could include weekly celebrations, like date nights, as well as special occasions like birthdays or other celebratory events. Feasting isn’t about excess but about delighting in God’s gifts.3. Ordinary Fare: The days between fasting and feasting are marked by the discipline of ordinary fare. This means eating not based on what you feel like in the moment, but rather with intentionality, what you want to feel like. As image-bearers, our bodies have a purpose: to love God and love others. Eating in a way that supports this purpose—with energy, clarity, and peace—is an act of stewardship. For me, ordinary fare includes clean meats, fruits, vegetables, and healthy carbs, while avoiding processed foods, sugar, and alcohol. These choices help me stay physically and spiritually equipped to love others well and achieve my goals.4. Intentional Movement: In addition to eating rhythms, I encourage you to commit to a consistent exercise routine as part of your new year’s resolutions. Movement is a gift from God that strengthens our bodies and minds for His service. Aim for a balance of endurance, strength, and flexibility training. For example, you might:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Go for a daily walk or run to clear your mind and connect with God in prayer.</li><li>Incorporate strength training 2-3 times a week to build resilience.</li><li>Practice stretching or yoga to maintain flexibility and reduce stress.</li></ul></li></ul>Intentional movement not only improves your physical health but also enhances your ability to focus, work, serve, and love others well.Practical Tips for Ordinary Fare and ExerciseOrdinary fare should be both enjoyable and sustainable. Healthy, nutritious food tastes good and nourishes your body in ways that processed indulgences cannot. However, ordinary fare also comes with limits. It means resisting the temptation to cope with stress, boredom or tiredness by turning to sweets or alcohol. Instead, you practice discipline and finding satisfaction and joy in God’s provision and care.For exercise, start small and be consistent. Set realistic goals, like committing to 20-30 minutes of movement five days a week. For some it could be setting a goal like a 5k or 10,000 steps a day. Try to find activities you enjoy—whether it’s running, cycling, swimming, pickleball, or hiking—so that exercise becomes a fun part of your routine rather than a chore.Why This Mindset MattersLiving in this rhythm of fasting, feasting, ordinary fare, and intentional movement not only transforms your body but also trains your soul. In fasting, you practice dependence on God. In feasting, you celebrate His goodness. In ordinary fare, you cultivate discipline and care for your body to fulfill its purpose of loving God and others. And in exercise, you strengthen your body to serve God and others with energy and joy. This holistic approach reshapes your relationship with food and fitness into acts of worship and spiritual growth.AccountabilityStart this new routine with accountability. Like any new discipline, having someone alongside you will make the process more joyful and sustainable. Ask a friend to join you in this health journey, or join the Kingdom Endurance team and allow us to encourage and support you along the way. We would love to have you!

A Mindset Shift for New Year’s Resolutions

interior christmas. magic glowing tree, fireplace gifts in  dark

The holiday season is a time of celebration, connection, and reflection—but it can also be a time of disruption when it comes to your routine. For endurance athletes, schedules fill up with family gatherings, work events, and travel, while tempting treats and late nights challenge routines. For believers, it’s equally easy to let spiritual practices take a back seat to the busyness of the season.Staying consistent with both your training and your faith might feel challenging during the holidays, but with the right mindset and strategies, it’s entirely possible.Here’s how you can grow your faith, keep your training on track, and make the most of this season.____________________________________________________________1. Shift Your Mindset: Consistency Over Perfection The first step to staying consistent is to let go of perfection. You might not hit every training session or find time for extended quiet moments with God— and that’s okay. Focus on consistency, not perfection.Instead of stressing about what you can’t do, focus on what you can do. For training, this might mean shorter, high-intensity sessions when time is tight. For your faith, it might mean praying during a morning run, listening to a sermon while driving, or reading Scripture for a few minutes before bed.It’s not about doing everything perfectly but about staying connected to your goals and your faith.2. Plan Around Your Commitments Holiday commitments can feel overwhelming as you juggle all of your normal responsibilities with the expectations of family and friends, but with intentional planning, you can make room for what matters most. Look at your schedule and identify when you’ll train.Here are some practical tips:Morning Workouts and Devotions: Start your day early with a workout and a few minutes of prayer or Bible reading before the busyness begins.Short and Focused Sessions: Opt for high-impact training like intervals or tempo rides when time is limited. Consider a challenge like the AIM proverbs and pushups challenge- 1 proverb and 100 pushups a day for each day in December. Combine Family and Fitness/Faith: Turn family gatherings into opportunities for activity, like a turkey trot or a post-meal walk. Maybe take time to share gratitude and reflect on what God has done in your lives this year with your loved ones.3. Stay Flexible and Prioritize Key Goals During the holidays, flexibility is crucial. If life gets hectic, focus on prioritizing key workouts and spiritual practices. For example, if you’re in marathon prep, aim to complete your tempo and/or long runs. Missing a low-priority session isn’t the end of the world if you’re staying consistent with the big ones. One missed workout won’t derail your progress, just as completing one won’t make you a champion. Similarly, prioritize moments of prayer, gratitude, and worship, even if they’re brief.&nbsp;4. Create Accountability&nbsp; Accountability can help you stay consistent in both your fitness and spiritual journey. Here’s how to stay on track:Communicate Your Goals: Share your training goals with your spouse, friends, or family. When they know what you’re working toward, they’re more likely to support your efforts even if it cuts into family time.Partner Up: Train with a friend or join a training community like Kingdom Endurance where you will be held accountable in your training and faith.5. Give Yourself Grace Lastly, extend grace to yourself. The holidays are a special time, and it’s okay if your routine isn’t perfect. What matters most is staying connected to your mission—both as an endurance athlete and as a follower of Christ.____________________________________________________________The holiday season doesn’t have to derail your training or your faith. By staying flexible, planning ahead, and keeping your priorities clear, you can stay consistent in both areas.This holiday season, let your commitment to your goals and faith inspire those around you. Keep moving forward—one mile, one prayer, and one day at a time.PS - Here is a link to the "AIM Mens Proverbs and Pushups Challenge" if anyone wants to join!&nbsp; AIM Missions is a non profit that seeks to Activate leaders to know Jesus intimately and make Him known accurately.<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfn4ziUaGiWzGaxhnVLLtVoSSHAwcvk05aPDw6kmXGLEg-kAQ/viewform" data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfn4ziUaGiWzGaxhnVLLtVoSSHAwcvk05aPDw6kmXGLEg-kAQ/viewform">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfn4ziUaGiWzGaxhnVLLtVoSSHAwcvk05aPDw6kmXGLEg-kAQ/viewform</a>

Staying Consistent: 5 Tips For Balancing Faith And Training Through The Holidays

Amazing African elephant with dust and sand. A large animal runs towards the camera. Wildlife scene. Loxodonta africana

When people think of endurance sports, they often see them as extreme and unattainable. I hear things like:“I could never do that.” “That is crazy.” “I don’t have time to train for something like that.” “How did you even get started?”The old saying goes, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” This is true in endurance sports as well. The best athletes know how to break the challenge into manageable pieces. Looking at the whole picture of an Ironman—140.6 miles of swimming, biking, and running—can be overwhelming. But can you swim 100 meters? Or run a single mile? The journey starts there.Endurance sports are as much about mental strength as physical ability. This is why, in coaching, I don’t only focus on nutrition strategies, training plans, and sport-specific skills. I also emphasize the mindset that sustains an endurance athlete.One of the biggest mental shifts I’ve learned is the ability to stay present. This means focusing on swimming to the next buoy or running to the next aid station—breaking it down to small milestones instead of the entire course. This allows me to focus and execute where I am without getting caught up in the immensity of the challenge. Great endurance athletes focus on the mile they ares in, trusting the process as they tick off mile after mile until they cross the finish line. This is true on race day, but cultivating that mentality starts in training.Getting Started with Realistic GoalsMany who are drawn to marathons or triathlons are ambitious people. They want to set big goals and achieve them. But this “all-in mindset,” while powerful, can lead to burnout if not managed carefully in the early stages.When you’re just starting, it’s crucial to set realistic goals, train within your limits, and commit to building gradually. A fellow endurance coach has a philosophy, “Lower the bar, raise the execution.” This may sound counterintuitive, but it means making each training session manageable and then executing them at a high level. This approach builds confidence and momentum, while laying a strong foundation to then be able to launch from.Early on, it’s essential to create a consistent exercise routine and build systems that allow endurance training to fit within your life. As a husband, father, full-time sales professional, and part-time coach/athlete, I understand the challenges of fitting endurance training into a busy life. Here are 4 strategies that have worked for me and can help you get started or even reenergize your training.1. Have a weekly training plan that you can refer to and adjust as needed.I don’t wing my training sessions. They are meticulously planned out in advance through TriDot, the best training platform I have found. My entire training schedule is planned through TriDot and it is the platform I coach my athletes through. Having a clear training plan will allow you to schedule your workouts around your other responsibilities.2. Recognize your other responsibilities and plan training around them.Whenever my wife and I are traveling, we always schedule what time we need to leave the house by working backwards. For example, if the flight is at 10:00am, and we want to be an hour early, then we need to be there at 9:00am. But the airport is 30 minutes away, so we need to leave the house by 8:30am. If we need to drop the dogs off at boarding, then we need to leave the house by 8:00am. The same method can be applied to scheduling my training. My son wakes up at 7:00am so if I want to be done with my workout before he wakes up, then I work backwards from there, set the alarm and get after it.3. Prepare your nutrition and gear in advance.Another beneficial strategy is prepping the night before, not the morning of. Laying out your gear, nutrition, and making sure electronics are charged will ensure that there are no logistical issues that will throw off your plan. Your spouse will also appreciate you not rummaging through the cabinets and waking everyone up at 5:00 in the morning.4. Write down your priorities and let them dictate your decisions.With this kind of training, sacrifice is required. This looks different for everyone, but having a clear hierarchy of priorities will help guide your decision making. I prioritize what I call the “3 F’s” (Faith, Family, and Fitness) to guide all of my decisions. This might mean saying no to some invitations or 1 less drink on Friday nights. Regardless there will be things you sacrifice to be successful in your goals, but that’s ok – you will be better for it!Give yourself grace to build these habits. Start small and within your limits, commit to the process, develop systems for success, and focus on executing each session. Small steps lead to big achievements.As always, if you want coaching, accountability, or a community that will support you on your journey, reach out to us at Kingdom Endurance!If you want to try out the TriDot platform, here is a link to 2 weeks free: ﻿<a href="https://app.tridot.com/onboard/sign-up/alexcaroom" data-mce-href="https://app.tridot.com/onboard/sign-up/alexcaroom">TriDot Link</a>

How Do You Eat An Elephant: A Guide To Setting Realistic Goals In Endurance Training

We all devote our lives to something. It’s just how we were created. The question is, what are we devoted to? This morning at church I learned about the Greek word “Prosechō” and I think it is one we should all become familiar with. It’s the Greek word for devotion. By definition, it is “to apply one's self to, attach one's self to, hold or cleave to a person or a thing. to be given or addicted to. to devote thought and effort to.” Prosechō implies strong, continuous, and persistent action towards something. It is consistently, whole-heartedly going after something – aka devotion.Devotion In FaithOur pastor defined this level of devotion as something akin to addiction. In our faith, devotion = addiction to God. That seems a little radical, but let me explain. When you are “addicted” to God, you are not satisfied with having His presence yesterday or last week. You are constantly seeking Him. You recognize you can’t do life without him. Your thoughts revolve around Him and His plan for your life. You want more and more of Him and you do whatever it takes to reach that end.King David has this kind of devotion to God. In Psalms, David says:Psalm 34:1 – “I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 25:15 – “My eyes are ever toward the LORD, for he will pluck my feet out of the net.”Psalm 16:8 – “I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.”Psalm 63:1-4 – “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.”To truly be a Christian is to be extreme. Jesus calls us to an extreme whole-hearted devotion to God because he has a whole-hearted extreme devotion to us. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus says, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” The call of Christ on our lives is nothing short of complete and total allegiance to Him and His kingdom. Inevitably, this is a life-altering commitment. If you are truly devoted to Christ, your life will completely change in ways you didn’t know possible. When you are addicted to something, it consumes you. You schedule your time around that thing. You wake up and go to bed thinking about it. You spend your money and energy on it. Your whole life revolves around this thing and getting more of it.Devotion In EnduranceIn the same way, endurance sports can certainly be extreme, life-altering, and some might say (i.e. my wife) it looks like an addiction. Depending on your goals, it takes hours of training, often accumulated over months and years. It requires consistency, discipline, and laser focus. You dedication to your mission will create conflicts in your schedule. You will find yourself saying no to things you used to say yes to. Your diet will change. You will invest in things you normally wouldn’t have. You might even start stretching before and after workouts. Your life will change. Why? Well in order to accomplish big goals, you must be devoted to them.Now, to be clear, I am not advocating for you to become addicted to running marathons or century rides. I’m simply highlighting yet another way endurance training has directly translated to my Christian walk. Devotion, discipline, and “never being satisfied with yesterday” in endurance training has impacted the way I approach my faith and the rest of my life. The gains I have experienced from endurance training have translated to my faith, relationships, and career.Devotion TipsAs Christian athletes, if we are fully devoted to Christ and our craft, our lives should reflect it. This may seem overwhelming, but here are some tips to maximize physical and spiritual devotion in your life.Schedule your mornings: Wake up early, commit to studying scripture, praying, and meditating as the first thing you do. Then go knock out your scheduled training sessions before other responsibilities distract you.Prioritize rest: Developing a consistent routine when it comes to sleep is key to not only recovering from your training, but to also have energy for your quiet time, relationships and career.Learn to say no: This is the hardest thing for me to do. I want to be a part of everything and can easily suffer FOMO. But learning to say no to some things will keep you on track with your mission and goals.So, what are you devoted to? If you want to grow your faith and take on big challenges, reach out to us! This is why Kingdom Endurance was started. To build a community of athletes who are committed to growing in faith and endurance. Join the team!

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