Last weekend included more active adventure than is normal for this couch potato. I've been wanting to write about it all week, but I haven't been able to lift my arms to the keyboard before today.
OK, that may be a bit of an exaggeration, but there's nothing like trying new things to help you discover muscles you never knew you had.
It started on Friday when my friend T and I headed to On the Rocks climbing gym in Campbell River. T had always wanted to try climbing, and as she was kind enough to share a gift certificate with me, I was more than willing to tag along.
T took to climbing like she'd been doing it all her life. I took to it like someone who spends a lot of time reading. Still, I had an amazing time. I'd certainly do it again, but I think I need to work on upper body strength first. And balance. And core strength. And convincing my arms, legs and brain to work together...
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| I love how my rented climbing shoes match my outfit. If you can't be physically coordinated you should at least be colour coordinated! |
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| Not hanging there like a big salami! Go me! |
By Sunday I had recovered enough for paddle boarding. Once again my access to adventure was due to the generosity of friends. L and L were kind enough to allow me to use the boards they brought to the beach.
Notice how in my case it's not "stand-up paddle boarding". I have yet to attain "stand up" status. My first attempt earlier in the summer ended in a splash. As I was still rather stiff from climbing, I wasn't sure I'd be able to hoist myself back on the board if I fell off this time. Still, in spite of the lack of vertical achievement, I had a wonderful time. My aching shoulders actually felt better after a couple of cruises around the lagoon.
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| I'm on the right. Not standing up. |
It's taken me almost 50 years, but I'm starting to realize that being active can be enjoyable. You just have to choose the right activity. And have friends who are willing to share the adventure!
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I am happy to see someone else enjoying the sport of "sit-down" paddle boarding:) You look wonderful Laurie, nice to see your smiling face!
ReplyDeleteThanks Rachel! Nice of you to stop by!
DeleteGood for you! You really scaled some heights there on the climbing wall. Makes me think I should try it, but I probably don't have much strength or agility for it. I was reminded lately that we had considered buying kayaks years ago. I love being on the water, so maybe that's an activity I should pursue. Do you think you'll try these activities again?
ReplyDeleteThanks Val! If you get a chance to climb, you should try it. I'm certainly not strong or agile, but I managed. I'd even try it again. I haven't tried kayaking, but I'd like to. That may be a better option for me, with the sitting down and all!
DeleteOooh, well done Laurie! I often see paddle boarders on the water at my local beach, and it looks quite hard to do. I overheard a surf/paddle instructor in Maui tell some customers that learning to surf was much easier than learning to paddle board.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sue! I can't imagine surfing being easier than paddle boarding, but then I haven't tried surfing. Standing up on the board and dealing with waves seems a bit much. At least paddle boarding can be done in calm water.
DeleteI have the same thoughts as you.
DeleteGreat minds!
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