Jealousy and 5K Training: An Odd Combination That Builds Strength Inside and Out

Jealousy and 5K training sound like an odd pairing, yet both have a way of exposing what’s happening beneath the surface. Training for a race forces patience, discipline, and honesty about our limits. Jealousy does the same for the heart, revealing insecurities and unmet expectations. When faced together, they offer an unexpected opportunity for growth—one step, one mile, and one surrendered thought at a time.

My husband Jon started GLP1 for weight loss last year and he's lost over 60 pounds. He's very happy with the progress albeit a bit more weight loss than intended. I am happy for him but, admittedly, a little jealous. I seemed to lose and gain the same 5 pounds in 2025.  I decided to act upon my jealousy in a good way and began asking Jon more questions about GLP1.  He encouraged me to try GLP1 knowing the struggles I've had losing weight that I gained during the COVID pandemic. It took several conversations before I finally decided to try GLP1 for myself.  I officially started GLP1 on January 6, 2026 and I am paying for it out of pocket through "hers."  

A couple days after my first dose, I weighed myself and I was down 4 pounds but my most recent weigh-in has me up by 1 pound.  I realize weight can fluctuate due to water retention, bowel movements, and inflammation so I will not be discouraged yet!  As a side note, I had concerns about feeling tired and weak but ending up achieving a PR deadlift of 177.5 pounds in Crossfit last week!

If you read my post Personal Growth - Reflections on 2025 and Looking Ahead to 2026, you'll know that I have a goal of improving my cardiovascular fitness. A week ago, I went on a hike with a group of friends from AA. Aside from the trails being a bit slick because of snow & ice, I struggled aerobically.  The leader of the group told me not to be discouraged that the group is meant to be for fun.  I do plan to hike with the group again even though I don't enjoy being out in the cold.

To help me further achieve my goal of improving my aerobic fitness, I was invited by a couple of Steadfast friends to do a 5K in April.  I signed up for the event so I'll be 5K training on my days off from Crossfit.  I definitely have my work cut out for me as I walked a mile this morning and it took me over 21 minutes.  Steadfast is providing two days of running workouts for us to do on our own time. I will be using these workouts for my training although I'll be walking more than running, especially to start.  I'd like to be able to walk more briskly and/or do some run/walk intervals come race day.

I greatly appreciate my husband and friends who are supporting my goals of weight loss and improving my cardiovascular or aerobic capacity.  I'm sure I could figure it out on my own but having support makes the journey much better.

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Scripture Image: YouVersion Bible App

5K We're Doing in April - Franklinton 10 miler and 5k

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