Progress

I have completed one month of training. As everything in life is difficult to measure any change on a day-to-day basis and during the first weeks of pain I couldn’t see any progress, however, after 4 weeks I am happy to report the following:

 

• My runs are getting a lot better. I’m not stopping at the hills and I feel my breathing is getting used to the altitude.
• I keep up with the guys on most of the exercises; I’m a bit slower with some (like push ups) and faster with others (like crunches).
• My flexibility has improved a lot; I can kick almost vertically and I’m very close to be able to do the splits!
• I’m not keeping track of weight or measurements, but I can feel I’ve lost some inches and have a bit more defined muscles.
• Although the Mandarin studying is very little compared to the physical training, I’ve learnt a lot of basics and I use it frequently in the markets and with the school staff.
• I have zero stress. My mind is completely relaxed, I have no worries; I take each day at a time and don’t occupy any time thinking about past or future.
• I’ve started to recognize positive skills and aspects of my personality that I hadn’t noticed before.

As I mentioned before, I’ve adapted well and fast to the environment and the routine; there are, however, things that I miss (in order of priority):

 

• My HK Family and Friends (I learnt long to cope with the distance from those in Colombia)
• Unrestricted internet access
• Cheese, avocados and quinoa

 

What I don’t miss:

 

• Make-up
• High-hill shoes
• Hair dryer
• Alcohol
• TV
• Desks and computers
• Overpriced meals

 

I’m sure I’ll adapt quickly again to whatever I choose to do after this, but for now I am happy to experience the simple life.