"The journey began 18 months ago and 50+ pounds fatter."
The motivation, tired of being fat and out of shape. No specific goal, just learned to eat clean, be consistent with exercise and keep it enjoyable. Audrey benches 135 x 5 x 3 at a bodyweight of 143 at 20% body fat. Started run training in mid-May to improve upon her 2:09 1/2 time. After about 6 weeks of two day a week run training (one day intervals on the tread, and one long run outside on weekends) she can run 8 mi at an RPE of 12. A pace that in May during her VO2max test was an RPE of 15. She could only hold 8.5 mph for one minute at VO2max in May, now runs 5 sets of 4 min intervals at 8.5 mph. No specific goal, just faster than 2:09 and still be able to maintain her 135 x 5 x 3 bench. Based on RPE, she's currently on track for a sub 1:55 1/2. We'll see what happens in Oct.
Setbacks, spent several days in the hospital in early June for an ulcer that reminded her that NSAIDs are not for every little ache and pain. About a week without solid food, bounced back quickly. Full-time job, stress, two active kids in sports, busy schedule, lots of potential excuses to deviate from healthy eating and/or inconsistent training, but doesn't because its a lifestyle. Another perk, she now feels comfortable in a bikini, in public that helps to keep it enjoyable and being consistent!