Gonna Fly Now

I didn't have any trouble getting home from Philadelphia on Friday night, even though the weather was a bit ugly both departing and arriving in Chicago.

I worked out again last night at the SCJ fitness center. Over the weekend, I created a new playlist on my iPod called "Exercise". It's amazing how the right song can energize you for a workout. Here's a partial list of the songs on the playlist:

"Gonna Fly Now" (from Rocky)
Survivor - "Eye of the Tiger" (also from Rocky)
John Farnham - "Break the Ice" (from the movie Rad)
"Phil's Piano Solo" (from Groundhog Day)
Paul Colman Trio - "Run"
Third Day - "Come Together"
"Hospital Chase" (from Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home)

I usually walk for 2 minutes, run for 4 minutes, and repeat the pattern. Yesterday, I was nearing the end of a 4-minute run when "Gonna Fly Now" came on. How can I slow down when that song comes on? Rocky never slowed down. In fact, he SPRINTED when he got near the museum. So, I kept running until the song was over. I managed to log over 4 miles in 45 minutes, which is the best I've ever done. We'll see if I can do as well tonight.

By the way, I'd like to give a shout out to Mike Brinkley, a friend of mine who has participated in several marathons over the years. I sometimes think of his determination when I'm on the treadmill. Thanks for the inspiration, Mike!