Vicki
Practice nurse? No ... triathlete!
As a practice nurse and busy working mother, Vicki Gundry often found it hard to make physical activity a high priority in her life. When a friend encouraged her to commit to regular dips in the local pool, Vicki thought it was a good idea and set herself an initial goal to improve her general fitness levels and health.
Vicki loves being active with other people as it provides her with vital motivation and encouragement. 'Whatever you choose to do, make sure it's something that you enjoy. Get involved with people of a similar ability and outlook. It's great to be active with friends because they can be a great inspiration on the days when you don't feel very keen and vice-versa,' she said.
A friend at the pool suggested a good focus for her activity would be the Special K Women's Triathlon in February 2005. To get herself in the right shape for the triathlon, Vicki signed up for the Sport Canterbury Active Practice Sea2Sea challenge.
Vicki introduced regular walking around her shifts and family commitments, soon progressing to 'scouts' pace' (walk a short way, then run a short way and keep alternating) and on to a steady jog. While she didn't enjoy running much, she looks at it positively. 'It's more than I've done for a long time!'
To vary her training, Vicki bought a 'cranky' old second-hand bike for $25. It was 13 years since she last rode. The first day out took 45 minutes, and a strong head wind made Vicki wonder if she was mad. The same route now takes around 35 minutes - a great measure of her progress.
Onto the Special K Women's Triathlon! Vicki triumphed, completing the challenging course in just over an hour. She is now a triathlon convert. 'I was really pleased with my time and have been racing about trying to convince everyone I know to enter next year,' said Vicki.
Vicki now enjoys the benefits of physical activity. Her body shape has changed, with more muscle tone. Her clothes fit differently and the positive comments from other people have been encouraging.
'It's great to have goals. Make sure they are realistic and don't be disheartened if your progress is slow (like mine). Just remember that whatever you're doing is better than doing nothing! Give it a go.'
Updated | 06 Jul 2006.
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