This Christmas, I received a gift that has already proven to be equal parts challenge and blessing: a treadmill. Getting it, however, was not exactly the smooth, joyful holiday moment you picture in your head.
If you’ve ever tried to move a treadmill into a basement, you know it’s not for the faint of heart. There were tight corners, awkward angles, a lot of sweating (and not the running kind), and more than a few moments where we questioned whether this thing would actually make it downstairs. It was, without question, a huge pain—physically and mentally. But somehow, my hubby and friend got it done.
Now that it’s finally set up, I can say with total confidence: it was worth it.
Winter training can be brutal. Freezing temperatures, snow-covered sidewalks, and slippery roads make outdoor running unpredictable and unsafe. Having a treadmill in my basement means I no longer have to choose between skipping miles or facing the bitter cold and ice. I now have a reliable place to show up, no matter what the weather is doing outside.
There’s something comforting about knowing that when the snow is falling and the wind is howling, I can still lace up my sneakers, press start, and keep moving toward my goals. Consistency is key.
That treadmill represents more than just indoor miles. It’s peace of mind, safety, and one more tool helping me stay committed to this journey. The struggle to get it into the basement is already fading, but the miles it will carry me through this winter long are just beginning.