Staying fit during a Vermont Winter.
Piper is my 7.5 yr old fitness partner in crime. She’s a rescue cattle dog mix that ended up in my life 6.5 yrs ago. Piper is my hiking buddy and always willing to hike to the summit of Camel’s Hump on a cold winter’s day. Camel’s Hump is the 3rd highest mountain in VT at 4,083 feet. My goal is to hike it once a week and eventually beat Piper to the top.
Winters in Vermont are long, usually cold, and the roads are covered with snow and ice. For me, a fair weather rider, this makes getting out on the bike impossible, so I head to the gym for 6 am spin classes a few times a week. It’s not the same as riding the rolling hills of Vermont with its majestic views of MT Mansfield or Camel’s Hump, and the 5am alarm is very painful, but after an hour of jumps, sprints, hills, and lots of sweat I’m ready to start the day.
If you have not tried a spin class I seriously recommend it. Find an instructor who has lots of energy and a good playlist, one that can motivate you to pedal harder and add more resistance. The music also helps motivate you to want to go harder/faster to stay with the beat. Sometimes I even find that I’m trying to sing along in between breaths! Spin class is a workout and when spring comes my legs–and my behind–will be ready for miles on the open road.
What I wear:
One of my favorite Tech Tanks!
Serena Wilcox is our in-house sales expert, working with many bike shops around the country. She’s an ultra distance runner, has been with Terry almost as long as she’s been with Piper, and is known to bring multiple rescue dogs to the office on regular occasion.
Thanks for the personal story. Individual’s stories keep me striving to maintain and exceed. The saying is cliche’ but thanks for rescuing and reaching out to help dogs in need. I liked that there is a jersey with a dog and bicycle on it.
Thank you for your thoughtful note — I’ll be sure Serena sees it. It will mean a lot to her.
Yay Serena and Piper!! I miss both of your faces 🙂
You truly are an inspiration. I don’t know how you have the energy to hike, bike and foster dogs!!
Hi Erika: Serena will be delighted to hear this — thank you for posting. We miss you!