VIDEO: Chris Jericho's influence on my running streak

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

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My running streak started 1,004 days ago. When I knew about six months ago that I would reach 1000 consecutive days of running one mile or more I came up with a plan to end the streak on a unique note. Some suggested going 1,111 or 1,234.

But I looked to Chris Jericho for inspiration. Back in the 90s when feuding with Dean Malenko "The Man of 1,000 Holds", Jericho one-upped his foe claiming the moniker, "Man of 1,004 Holds."

Blood, sweat but no tears

Green check, red blood

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

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283 days ago I embarked on a running streak. So each day since May 1, 2016, I have run at least one mile. Today I set out to run for no fewer than 30 minutes, which usually ends up being right around four miles. But about a half mile into the run, I experienced something I never have been.

I was running through a field and trying to maximize the distance by hitting the perimeter as much as possible. There were trees nearby with branches hanging down. I misjudged the distance between my face and the branch and ran right into it. (Note, my phone was tucked away in my armband at the time). The impact hurt of course, but I quickly realized the real source of the pain was the thorns that were now embedded into my cheek. 

I could feel blood coming down my face, but my first instinct was to pull out my phone and Snapchat my accountability group. I pressed forward, pulling out the thorns as best I could. I wrapped up the four miles with the blood stain still in effect to make myself look like a bad ass. I got home and finished plucking the rogue remnants of the branch.

Running in the snow last year

In the past, I've run in all types of weather; heat, rain and snow. I've been chased by dogs and even stopped dead in my tracks by a coyote on the trail. But this is the first time a thorny tree branch impacted my workout. What encounters have you had while running?

Snapping into accountability

I'm Hunsperger on Snapchat

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

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I've decided to continue on with my monthly fitness/wellness updates. I started doing these posts in January 2016 as a way to hold myself accountable. My hope was putting myself out there I would be more likely to reach my goals. It worked for the first half of the year and then I crashed and burned. I stopped hitting the gym (although I kept a run streak intact) and my healthier eating habits plunged.

In 2017 I decided I would indeed still try to "find my abs", but I'm not so wrapped up in the mission like before. It's a marathon, not a sprint. I joined an accountability club on Snapchat run by a trainer named Chad Williams (@AntrhoChad on Twitter). 

I got involved in the group because I don't have a schedule that allows me to have a workout buddy or running partner on a regular basis. I get off work at 10 a.m. when most of my friends are just starting their workday. With the Accountability Club, we snap the group when a workout or other goal is achieved. Sending that green checkmark is a highlight of my day and an accomplishment. I also love seeing others reach their daily goals.

Club members encourage each other before, during and after workouts. We also answer each others questions related to health, fitness or nutrition. Chad has done a great job keeping everyone connected and motivated. That motivation is contagious and uplifting snaps are sent throughout the day. I'm still running each day (today is day 277) and I've lost just over four pounds. 

Courtesy: BuzzFeed

I will say I ate more fast food this past month than I normally eat. I submitted to White Castle, Taco John's, Lion's Choice and Taco Bell (damn that new naked chicken chalupa) in January. There's also my sweet tooth and Craft Beer Fridays. 

But I'm not giving up by any means. Here's to the Accountability Club and new success in February. At least until the Girl Scout Cookies come in...  

New Year, new me yada, yada

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

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2017 starting weight: 191.6
2016 starting weight: 193.6
I lost two whole pounds. Woo-hoo!

It's that time of year once again that I make some bold goals for the new year. And once again Operation Find My Abs will be on that list. 2016 started off strong for me, I hit the gym four to five times a week and I started eating healthy. But by late spring I derailed and the rest as they say is history.

First run of 2017

One thing I did stay consistent with is my running. As of New Year's morning, I've run at least one mile a day for 245 days. My 2016 total 658.5 miles. Not bad, but not as much as I ran in 2015 (but I did a half and full marathon that year). I enjoy running and will keep the streak alive for as long as I can, but I am also recommitting to getting to the gym and eating healthier. I'm also a part of a Snapchat accountability group headed by "Coach" Chad Williams. My abs are there, I just hope to find them.

Blogger at work!

Fitness is always a top priority, but so is expanding my brand. My 1-2-3 Cents grew over 2016 in terms of the freelance blogging. My goal for 2017 is to take things to the next level. The plan is to grow the blog, podcast and YouTube channel. By the end of the year, this site should have more than one million hits. My blogging streak here just reached day 220. 

Thank you to everyone who has supported all my endeavors. New projects are coming in 2017 including more with the Craftbeericans. Stay tuned, it's going to be a great year.

Will run for food

Yellow Donkeys "run for hunger"
Courtesy: Tom Harness

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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A couple of years ago I joined a running group here in southern Illinois called the Yellow Donkeys. Not only is this a supportive group of runners, but also many are my friends. Earlier this year the Yellow Donkeys became a non-profit group and is set on helping members of the community.

Some Donkeys in action
Courtesy: Brian Flath

The group wrapped up the unofficial week of giving with a Run for Hunger. Members and folks in the area were invited to run or walk with the Donkeys and bring some non-perishable food items or cash. The food and money were evenly divided and distributed to the Good Samaritan House in Carbondale and Saluki Food Pantry on the SIU campus.

Just a fraction of the food collected

After all the items were collected we headed out for a brisk run in the 30 something degree weather. Yes, it was chilly, but the Donkeys were on an important mission. I felt a sense of proud that warmed my heart as I ran the course. It was great seeing so many friends out supporting the cause. 

Today's event reminds me it doesn't take much to make a difference in your community. You may not be able to organize a food drive or donate a mountain of cash, but that's okay. Dropping off a few things at the food pantry in your community or some spare change in the Salvation Army's Red Kettle will make someone's holiday season a little brighter. 

Running on empty

The Shawnee Marathon
October 24, 2015

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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One year ago today I celebrated one of the greatest successes of my life. I completed my first marathon. I still say first (and not only) because my hope is to one day do it again. In the days that followed that epic moment of my life I wrote about my struggles of getting back to running long distances. Now, 366 days later I still haven't found my motivation to go the distance.

The River to River Relay 2016

I am still running and I enjoy doing it. But I'm not pushing the limits. Members of the running group I'm in, the Yellow Donkeys, have started run streaks. I started mine May 1 and am still going strong, despite the occasional aches and pains that come with the daily running. I'm free styling right not, but I don't think I've hit a double digit run since October 24, 2015. 

R2R training

I've passed up a couple of chances to run a half and even full marathon over the course of the past year, in part because of scheduling conflicts, but also because I still don't feel ready to do it again. I posed this question last year, are there any runners out there who have experienced this and how long does it last? 

Thumbs up to running

I still have my eye on the prize of one day running the Disney Marathon. I know I can do it, it's just a matter of finding that motivation to start the training again and go the distance. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.  

Old Glory Relay 2016

Photo courtesy:
Harness Digital Marketing

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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For the second year in a row, I've had the honor of being a part of the Old Glory Relay. For those who don't know, it's a running event in which the flag is carried and passed across the country. The only difference this year is that the route went further south and bypassed southern Illinois.

Proud to be included

That's where my buddies Tom Harness and Brian Flath stepped in. As members of Team RWB (the force behind the national effort), Tom and Brian worked with local veterans, runners, police departments and sponsors to make sure the Stars & Stripes made its way through our region too. The route of this year's Old Glory Relay went through three southern Illinois counties; Randolph, Jackson and Williamson. The course covered about 64 miles and was completed in about nine hours. 

The community gets involved

I'm honored to have been a part of the effort, not just running with the flag, but also winding things down at the end. The final mile a large group of us walked the flag to the final destination. Lined the sides of the road and applaud as the flag passed. Others in the group, which included veterans, runners and children, carried flags too. 

Photo courtesy:
Jim Olsen

The most poignant moment was watching veterans in the crowd get a chance to walk with the flag. Some took just a few steps, others went further along. There were tears and cheers and a lot of respect. It makes me proud to live in this great community of Carterville, Illinois but it also makes me proud to be an American. (Other communities were out supporting the relay too, I wasn't able to be at all the exchanges, so thanks to all who came out). I did not serve this great country in the military, but I will do all I can to support those who did. Thank you to all who served and to everyone who made the Old Glory Relay possible.

100 days of running

RSD100

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Yes, another fitness blog. On May 1 I started the Run Streak Challenge. I was late to the party as many members of the running group I run with were months ahead on me. The rules are simple, run at least one mile every day and track your progress with the Yellow Donkeys group.

My goal all along was to hit 100 days. Today (August 8) I did just that. So now that I'm at triple digits the plan is to keep pressing forward. I've come this far, I don't want to just stop. There are days my ankle hurts or my knees pop louder than usual, but I'm not in any real pain, so I'll keep moving forward.

The key to keeping a streak like this going is to listen to your body. If you truly are hurt, rest. There were plenty of days whether because of time constraints or the pain that I would just get that mile in to keep the streak alive. Ice and elevation concluded many of my outings. I've also slowed my pace to adjust to my comfort level.

I'm not writing this post to brag, but to encourage. Three months ago I didn't think 100 days would become a thing for me. Now here I am moving comfortably into those triple digits. If you're looking for that push to get started on something, consider this your official push. Get going and good luck.

The art of running

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Forty-seven days ago I started a running streak. Several members of my running group, The Yellow Donkeys, have been at it for quite some time. The rules are simple, run at least one mile a day and post the results on the group's Facebook page. It's a great motivational tool, and at day 47 my ankles are aching, but the comments and likes help keep me going.

The lines drawn on the map after the run have taken on some interesting shapes. Members made a few comments about them so I decided to start titling my maps based on what the map looks like. 

Here are some of my favorites and keep in mind you have to use a bit of imagination for some images.

What does the fox say?

Wine bottle

Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer

Seahorse

Girl with a long ponytail 

Castle with a flag

Middle finger :) 

Bird with a bent beak

Streaking into June

Selfie break with the Big Muddy Monster

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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I promise there will be no nudity in this post.  That's not the streaking I'm talking about.  I've had plenty of ups and downs with Operation Find My Abs through the years.  In fact, I'm still looking.  I'm hoping 2016 is the year I finally get into better shape (and round doesn't count).

May started off with the launch of a running streak for me.  I have run at least one mile every day since then.  I racked up just over 75 miles for the month.  The Yellow Donkey running group I'm a member of is the source of inspiration for this streak.  I blogged before about losing my passion for running after I completed my first marathon in October.  I'm not ready for another long distance race, but I am gradually regaining my love for the sport.

Another streak I started is the #22KILL push-up challenge.  I wrote about it the other day, so I won't repeat myself.  But I will say this is an important streak because it's raising awareness about veteran suicide.  Plus it's another way to get in some extra exercise.

I've also started a planking challenge.  It's a 30 day thing, but there are rest days involved. This is another one courtesy of those crazy running donkeys.  I know I'm not going to sculpt abs of steel with this, but the challenge will help in the process. One other streak I've started is a blogging streak.  You're reading this, so it must be working.  Actually I have seen some growth on the page as a result of the consistent content.

Other things I did in May, I was hit or miss with the gym over the course of the month.  My eating habits were pretty good, but I still have an out of control sweet tooth some days. I haven't had a soda (I'm addicted to Vanilla Coke Zero) since the end of April.  I'm not going to lie, I will resume the soda drinking but just one day a week.

My hope for June is that these healthy streaks start having a visual impact on the task at hand, which remains finding at least a trace of my abs. 

I've been a fool in April

Kamala vs. WhattaBurger in Dallas

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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I'm behind on blogging about Operation Find My Abs.  But to be honest I've fallen off the workout wagon and the healthier eating wagon.  It all started in mid-March with a Spring Break trip to Disney World.

The Mickey Mouse PB Cup

I'm not blaming my vacation on my poor choices.  There are healthy choices at the restaurants at the Happiest Place in the World.  For example one day I did get green beans as a side with my burger instead of french fries.  However, that was about the extent of the healthy picks.  I had the No Fair Funnel Cake at Cold Stone Creamery, a Mickey Mouse peanut butter cup the Goofy Candy Company and lots of cold beer on the beach.  I justified these options with the "I'm on vacation" and "it's my birthday" excuse.

I got back into the saddle briefly when we returned from the sun and sand.  I hit Gold's Gym a few times in late March and picked up the pace on running because I'm participating in a big relay race. Then I got on the Road to WrestleMania...

One of several craft beers during WrestleMania weekend

Once again I opted for the less healthy choices.  Chad and I became the tag team champions at CicCi's Pizza.  We'd laid the smackdown on that buffet.  Then we doubled up at Redneck Heaven as I conquered a chili burger one night and then the big BLT during the next stop. Fast food became our partner too as we hit up McDonald's, Taco Bell and WhattaBurger.  My new hobby of craft beer consumption with my fellow Craftbeericans won't help either, but I'm keeping the mantra "everything in moderation" in mind.

Training for the River to River Relay

I've been back home nearly two weeks, and I've yet to make it to the gym.  But as I mentioned I am running more.  I don't feel like I've gained any weight, but I have definitely not seen in progress in finding my abs.  I will continue my quest and change my eating habits once again.  I've polished off all the Reese's Peanut Eggs from Easter, so half the battle has been won.

Stay tuned for an update in May.  We've got this.  We really do...

Motivational Monday: Start with the man in the mirror

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

I saw this quote "If you're searching for that one person that will change your life, take a look in the mirror."  and immediately thought of the Michael Jackson song Man in the Mirror.  I've pondered the quote and the words from the song over the last few days and really if anyone is going to save you, it has to be you.

No matter what element of your life you want to change, the most important thing is doing more than just WANTING to change.  And make sure you really do want to change and understand the challenges involved.  Set up smaller daily goals to help reach the ultimate prize.  For example if you want a promotion or a new job, don't wait for someone to call you.  Be your own advocate.  Apply for at least three new jobs a week.  Follow up and continue to update your resume.

Running through the snow...

Over the weekend I was a part of the Southern Illinois Men's Expo.  One of the speakers is a marathon runner.  He said during his discussion if you really want to be a runner you have to train all the time.  If it's raining, prepare to get wet.  If you don't feel well, run anyway.  Too busy?  While you're waiting for your kid to finish soccer practice, run around the field.  

The point is you can make excuse after excuse for not achieving a goal.  Stop doing that and get started now.  When things get tough, trudge through.  Change isn't easy, but your life may be after change is made.  Believe in yourself more than anyone else and make the people who do support you proud.

  

How running made me fat

Finishing the Shawnee Marathon

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Let me clarify.  The headline was admittedly to get you here.  I don't really blame running on my recent weight gain. But my mindset after I run.  In 2015 I ran more than ever before, logging 793 miles.  I ran a half marathon, a full marathon, a relay race and several 5Ks.   So it was a good year for running.

Wrapping up 2015

While my mileage went up, so did my weight.  It's nothing drastic, but I am about 10 pounds heavier than I was a year ago.  I weighed myself this morning (New Year's Day) and I'm at 193.6 pounds.  I'm not complaining, but I'm not happy with the way things are right now.

When I run and see that I've burned hundreds of calories, I justify making a less healthy choice later that day.  Over the fall I became addicted to peanut butter and apple butter sandwiches at lunch.  I've also started using flavored coffee creamers, and after two or three cups a day, the calories add up. I'm now limiting myself to one coffee a day with the creamer, the rest of my cups are just black.

January 1, 2016
I'm not pregnant

For the last couple of years I've declared it the year I find my abs.  Obviously, that's still not happened.  I took that pic above this morning after weighing myself.  I've also started the 30 Day Ab Challenge.  I know that abs are built in the kitchen, and I'm changing my eating habits and trying to conquer my sweet tooth.  It's not going to be easy, but I know it can be done.  

In addition to the Ab Challenge, I plan to increase the number of times I hit the gym.  I'll also work more DDP Yoga into my life and of course, I'll keep running.  My first meal of the new year was a spinach, banana, blueberry and peanut butter smoothie.  It's pretty good and good for me too (at least I hope).

You've Run a Marathon, So What's Next?

A SnapChat finish

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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I'm writing this not to brag or to whine, but instead to reach out to other runners who may be in the situation I find myself in right now.  Just over two weeks ago, I completed my first marathon.  I say first because I do intend to run another, but for the last 17 days I've found myself feeling rather blah about running.

I've run eight times since crossing the finish line on the marathon.  The furthest run to date is just 5.29 miles.  I can't seem to motivate myself to go beyond that point right now.  I have several friends who are planning a 50-mile ultra later this month.  I've been invited to join them, but I have no desire to compete in such an event.

The elusive Disney marathon medal

I have my eyes on other marathons down the road, most specifically the race at Disney World.  Seeing those Mickey Mouse medals has awakened the kid in me.  Plus what better scenery to run through is there than the "Happiest Place on Earth"?  But until that becomes a reality (at least a few years from now) I'll try to find the happiness in running again.  I don't hate doing it, but I do feel different since finishing the marathon.

So if you've felt like this after a big race, how did you cope?  What advice can you give a guy going through a midlife crisis and using running as he way to get through it all?