Instructional &
Informational Posts
rut. noun /ret/: a habit or pattern of behavior that has become dull and unproductive but is hard to change.
In our column, Rut Buster, we challenge writer Valerie McTavish to climb out of the all-too-common health ruts we find ourselves in from time to time. From the running rut to the gym rut, and even the couch potato rut, join us as Valerie tosses aside the usual and takes on a variety of get-your-sweat-on activities.
I have a tickle trunk full of sporting toys.
Sadly, it sits in the shed and collects dust. I decided to crack it open and excavate the tennis rackets bought one summer when my local tennis court had me thinking I could transform myself into Serena Williams. That was several summers ago and they’ve been growing fur ever since.
Those rackets seemed like a perfect rut buster. I dragged my husband to the court feeling confident and optimistic. Within a few swings, lunges and sprints – my coolness was gone.
My style of tennis resembled the hulk more than a Williams’ sister. I have a tendency to swing wildly with as much strength as possible but without an ounce of finesse or ability to direct the ball. I also seem to throw all self-respect out the window – batting at the balls general direction and leaping through the air like a crazy lady even when there is no hope I’ll actually connect with the ball.
Apparently, it’s good for a laugh.
Soon there were cries across the court of ‘15 All’. That came from the court next to ours. Our calls were more like 15, 16, 17 oops, okay, 1, 2...as we just tried desperately to rally. We gave up all attempts at playing a proper game in favour of just keeping the ball moving. If it took a few bounces before we could return it - that was okay. There was no such thing as out, the ball was always in play – except the few times I managed to hit it over the fence.
After an hour of sweaty swatting we called it a day. It was a fantastic workout (most of which was gained by running after wayward balls) and a whole lot of fun. We vowed to do it again (perhaps under the cover of darkness). Just to be sure, we kept the rackets out of the trunk and planted them by the front door.
I’m still convinced that if I add some style to my power I could be a real tennis player. For now, Serena’s career is safe.
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Valerie needs your help. Email your stories about how you busted out of a rut (fitness or otherwise). Share your successes or suggest an activity for her to try. Stay motivated together.
