January Reading Flight | Sally Anne’s Top Picks
Written by Sally Anne Groomes
January usually begins with a complete inundation of resolutions; diet talk and unrealistic expectations that leave most disappointed by February 1.
With this in mind, I have started approaching the start of a new year with the aim to create a manageable goal that gets me excited to pursue each day. For instance, this year I have made it a goal to run a half-marathon with a dear friend in March. The result of this goal is that it gives direction and purpose behind each of my daily runs. Plus, the end result will be a fun and memorable race with my friend. However, since I am the type that likes a good theme; I’ve found myself gravitating toward books and movies that motivate me throughout this process. If you too have made a fitness goal this year, maybe these suggestions will provide additional inspiration!
What to Watch
Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young
This documentary (streaming for free on Amazon Prime) is truly astounding and very entertaining (my husband who does NOT enjoy running, was completely enthralled). The Barkley Marathon is an ultramarathon that takes place in the mountains of Tennessee. Only 40 applicants are selected each year to run the unmarked course inspired by an escaped convict that only covered a mere 8 miles in the surrounding area over the course of 55 hours. The creator of the race decided that he could have run at least 100 miles within 60 hours, and thus the Barkley Marathon was launched. The documentary follows several race participants in their quest to complete the race and their perseverance is astounding. This is such a quirky and fun watch and left me feeling grateful I’m running a fully marked and much shorter racecourse!
What to Read
Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance
By Alex Hutchinson
Hutchinson’s thorough analysis of what the human body is capable of enduring in our quest to constantly push the limit of speed and endurance is pitch-perfect. I have recommended this to athletes, scientists, and recreational runners and all have echoed the same praise for this book. While certain chapters really delve into the nitty-gritty science of endurance, Hutchinson quickly returns to fascinating implications that any lay reader can appreciate.
Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory
By Deena Kastor
While Endure covers everything about physical endurance, Kastor’s memoir delves deep into the mental game an athlete must master to reach success. Kastor holds the record for the fastest American female marathon so she knows a thing or two about staying mentally tough. Kastor details the highs and lows of her running career with breathtaking honesty that provides the reader with actionable tips and mental approaches that any recreational or competitive athlete can use. Her positivity and gratitude, even amidst struggle, provides inspiration that I am excited to integrate into my own mental practice.
What to Drink
Liquid I.V. Hydration - Açai Berry
While I am constantly found with a water bottle close at hand, some days I struggle to actually drink another boring glass of water. In order to provide a bit of taste variety, I have been using Liquid I.V. Hydration to supplement my endless liters of plain water on days that my mileage is increasing. These little packets easily mix into 16 ounces of water and add flavor as well as additional electrolytes. I find that I feel more hydrated and actually finish my water bottle on days I use these.
I hope that something on the list will provide inspiration for any New Year goals you may have. If you read, watch, or drink any of these recommendations, shout it out in the comments! Happy New Year!
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Sally Anne Groomes
Washington, D.C.
Sally Anne is a former literature professor who still cannot be caught without a book close at hand. Currently, she is raising her two kids, running many miles, and adventuring around the world one duty station at a time with her husband (a Navy doctor). She loves Jesus with all her heart and is learning daily how to count it all JOY.
Learn more about Sally Anne here and find her on Instagram at @sagroomes21.
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Coming off more than a year in pandemic mode I feel like we are all deserving of a fantastic tropical vacation. However, regardless of your summer plans, hopefully you will find time to dive into a good book, whether it be next to a beach, a pool or a toddler sprinkler! With that in mind, I have compiled a list of a few of my favorite fiction and nonfiction picks to help you mentally recharge, restore, and relax.