God has Satan on a Leash

“And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” Luke 22:31-32 NKJV

In a story covered yesterday by SILIVE, it was reported that “Giuseppe Priamo was running on a path along Capodanno Boulevard when a large dog without a leash or visible owner approached him, forcing him to stop his workout completely. The encounter left him shaken and concerned about the safety of other pedestrians, cyclists and children who frequent the popular recreational area.”

“I saw a big dog come out of nowhere with no leash, no owner. It was just walking,” Priamo said. “The dog looked at me, stopped and then it was trying to come at me.”

Priamo said he stopped running immediately, unsure how the dog would react. He said he stood still for several minutes, afraid that running might provoke the animal. Eventually, the dog’s owner appeared, along with another woman who also had an unleashed dog.

“I’m training for the Staten Island Half Marathon and this really just threw me off completely,” Priamo said.

The incident occurred in the lower boardwalk area near the parking lots in the vicinity of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. After the encounter, Priamo said his nerves were rattled to the point where he couldn’t continue his training run.

According to Priamo, unleashed dogs are a recurring problem along Capodanno Boulevard….

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

And, you know, while unleashed dogs are indeed a huge universal problem, you and I can be thankful that God has a leash on the devil, the one who “walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 

That means our enemy, the devil, can’t do anything to us that God does not allow. And before you say, “Why would God allow anything bad to happen to His people,” consider that God uses trials and troubles to grow, mold, humble, and shape us in ways that nothing else can. 

This is something we can see in the life of Peter. 
At the Last Supper, Jesus warned Simon Peter that a test of faith was coming by saying, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat” This sifting meant the devil wished to shake Peter’s faith so forcefully that he would fall, proving that God’s faithful servant was lacking. And we know that God allowed this sifting to occur for Peter’s ultimate good and for the good of the Kingdom. 

“But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.‘“ Luke 22:33-34

“Then after about an hour had passed, another confidently affirmed, saying, “Surely this fellowalso was with Him, for he is a Galilean.”But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are saying!” Immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So Peter went out and wept bitterly.” Luke 22:59-62

This may seem harsh until you consider that Peter’s pride caused him to trust too much in his own human strength—something we glean by his profession of steadfast immovability— saying that even if all the other disciples deserted Jesus that he would not. In fact, Peter was so adamant about his ability to remain fixed amid any opposition and that he would not desert Jesus that he declared he would follow Jesus into prison and even into death.

But we know that Peter’s trust in himself ultimately failed by his denial of Jesus for the third time, which caused the rooster to crow just as Jesus said would happen. The worst part, though, must have been seeing the look in Jesus’ eyes that confirmed what Jesus told him to be true. 
Peter’s pride kept him from understanding how easy it was to fall and he fell hard—something that caused him to weep bitterly. 

So, as you can see, Peter’s sifting was not a punishment, then, but a purification. The devil indeed sifted him as wheat by beating him down in the same way grain must be beat down, ground up and pulverized between heavy grinding stones or sharp steel teeth to remove impurities like dirt, small stones, and chaff.

This spiritual sifting removed Peter's pride and spiritual impurities, specifically by beating down his self-reliance and the "chaff” of his overconfidence. 

The sifting meant to destroy Peter backfired on the enemy (as it always does) and left Peter a changed man--a man with a deeper, humbler, and more mature trust in God. Thus proving that sifting is not a punishment, but a necessary purifying that serves to grow our faith and make us more like Jesus. 

So, don’t fear being sifted my friend. Jesus prayed for Peter--that his faith would not fail and that when (not if) Peter returned to Him that he would strengthen those around him because of the trial--and you can be sure that He will be praying for you too. And if Jesus is for you, there's no enemy (including Satan) who can defeat you.

And remember… sifting might not be a pleasant process but you can be sure that it will be a profitable one. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that in the same way wheat must be beaten and broken down to separate the wheat (the useable) from the chaff (the unusable), we, as believers, must endure the same process if we are to be used. Help us to understand that times of hardship and testing are not only what grows our faith but shows it to be real. Lord, when we are being sifted, please remind us that Jesus is praying for us and that nothing can happen to us outside of your will. Help us to understand that anything you allow will ultimately work for our good and for Your glory. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Join the Latest Challenge

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog

Now let's get started by talking about the temperature and tennis balls. Believe it or not, these two things have something in common this time of year. They both slow down your running pace.

Now, before you say that nothing good could come out of a slow running pace, consider the benefits of Zone 2 running.  

What exactly is Zone 2 running? Well... to put it simply, zone 2 running is the zone in which you can have a conversation, but not sing an entire tune. This equals running about 60 to 70 percent of your maximum heart rate and is a key workout on any training plan because it's the foundation of long-distance. It helps prepare your body to tackle races ranging from the 5k to the marathon--something that can be very handy as we move forward in training for the Bass Pro Fitness Series of events. 

Now, let's look at some of the benefits of Zone 2 Running...

1. Improves Aerobic Fitness

Zone 2 training teaches your body to use oxygen more efficiently. This increases your aerobic capacity, allowing you to run faster and longer before fatiguing.

2. Increases Fat Burning

At Zone 2 intensity, your body relies more heavily on fat for fuel rather than carbohydrates. Over time, this improves your metabolic flexibility and can help preserve glycogen stores during longer efforts.

3. Builds More Mitochondria

Mitochondria are the "power plants" of your cells. Zone 2 training stimulates mitochondrial growth and function, improving your muscles' ability to produce energy.

4. Enhances Endurance

Because you're improving your aerobic system, you'll be able to sustain exercise for longer periods with less effort.

5. Supports Recovery

Zone 2 runs are easier on the body than high-intensity workouts, allowing you to accumulate training volume without excessive fatigue or injury risk.

6. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Regular Zone 2 training can:

• Lower resting heart rate

• Improve stroke volume (how much blood your heart pumps per beat)

• Improve blood vessel function

• Support healthy blood pressure

7. Creates a Foundation for Faster Running

Many elite runners spend 70–90% of their training time in easy aerobic zones. A strong aerobic base allows you to get more benefit from speed workouts and races.

8. Lower Injury Risk

Since the intensity is relatively low, Zone 2 running places less stress on muscles, tendons, and joints than frequent hard workouts.

Aaaannnnd, here's where the tennis ball comes in. Did you know, per Runner's World, that many runners are now using tennis balls to help them get into Zone 2 and stay there? It's true! 

Apparently, the method popped up on social media back in 2022, when the ultrarunner Hellah Sidibe shared an Instagram Reel showing himself running along a residential street while bouncing a tennis ball on the ground. “I met a woman named Helen 4 years ago in Puerto Rico when I saw her running and dribbling a tennis ball,” he wrote in the caption. “After seeing her out a couple of times I finally got to ask her about it and she said she runs with it often because it keeps her mind busy.” He was training for the 100-mile Leadville Trail race at the time, and about a month later, he completed it with a time of 27:44:09. Amazing right? 

But lately, I learned as I investigated the trend further, running while dribbling a tennis ball or passing them back and forth between hands, has become a full-on trend, with runners posting their tennis ball method runs all across social media—and sharing about the beneficial results.

And here are just a few of the ones listed:

It slows you down. For runners who struggle to maintain an easy or recovery pace, the necessity of catching the tennis ball forces you to reduce your speed so you don’t stray too far while it’s airborne.

It prevents boredom. Many runners find themselves quickly losing interest and getting bored on easier runs that don’t present an immediate speed or endurance challenge to overcome. The focus required to avoid losing the tennis ball can help you enjoy the slower runs that might otherwise feel like a slog.

It keeps you cognitively engaged. Relatedly, as Australian health coach Ellice De Giovanni explained in a reel about the method, bringing a tennis ball along on her four-mile run made it feel fun and helped her form, mobility, and power.

Now comes an important question... How do you know when you're in Zone 2? Some of the easiest and most common ways are: 

• Heart rate: ~60–70% of max HR (some systems use 65–75%).
• Talk test: You can speak in full sentences without gasping.
• Effort level: About 3–4 out of 10.
• Breathing: Noticeably elevated but controlled.

For example, If your max heart rate is around 180 bpm, Zone 2 would roughly be 108–126 bpm (or slightly higher depending on the zone model used).

So, as you can see, Zone 2 running can benefit most runners who are training for a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or marathon. And also runners who want better cardiovascular health, who are returning to running after time off, or who want to improve their endurance without feeling constantly exhausted. 

Since a common mistake is running easy days too hard, many runners discover that true Zone 2 feels surprisingly slow at first (maybe even like walking briskly), but later find that consistent training in the zone often leads to faster paces at the same heart rate over time.

And there you have it friends, going slow has a lot of benefits whether it's intentional or caused by the crazy weather we have here in Missouri. So, grab a tennis ball and do it often. You'll not only stay in Zone 2 but you'll be giving your mind a workout along with your legs and that's a win for everyone. You can even bring your tennis ball with you when you run the Bass Pro Half or Full--but you might want to just keep it in your pocket this time as a reminder that all those slow runs will pay off with a fast finish time. Happy Running!

Measure Yourself Against God’s Standard

“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:48 NKJV

In an astonishing story titled “17-Year-Old Cooper Lutkenhaus Wins His First U.S. Outdoor Title in Dominant Fashion,” it was reported that “The rising high school senior capped off an incredible first professional season with a decisive win in the 800 meters.”

When interviewed later, Cooper talked about the previous season in which he became the youngest track star to sign with Nike, saying that this year might have been even more satisfying.

“I think this one might be a little more exciting just because, you know, I’ve been working all year for this,” he said. “I really wanted to be the U.S. indoor and U.S. outdoor champ. That was my main goal, you know, to be able to achieve that in front of such a great crowd.”

Reflecting on his first full season as a pro, Lutkenhaus gave himself a favorable grade.

“I would say [the season was a] 9.5 out of 10 if we’re going to go with a scale rating,” he said. “There are some things I really wanted to do this year that I missed barely, but I got a nice, shiny PR this year and won some big races so you can’t ask for much more…”

And, you know, while it’s one thing to give yourself a favorable grade for physical “performance,” it’s a whole other thing to give yourself a favorable grade for spiritual “performance.”

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23

You see, the Bible is very clear that God’s standard for a 10 out of 10 is to “be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” The problem with that though, is that no one is perfect. Even on our very best day, we all sin and fall short of the glory of God.

“For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.” James 2:10

Furthermore, there are no “favorable grades” in the Kingdom because if you and I can’t achieve absolute perfection, we rate a zero… not a 1, not a 3, and definitely not a 9.5. Why? Because whoever stumbles in one point of the law, is guilty of breaking the whole law!

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.” Romans 5:8-9

This means that all who break the law, even by the smallest infraction, are worthy of death. But there’s good news! While we were still sinners, Christ died for us and gave us the gift of God which is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Do you get that? When we choose to accept Jesus as our Savior, we are “justified by His blood,” which means we appear before God just-as-if-we-had-never-sinned!

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

But it gets even better! You and I have been saved by grace through faith and not by our works, lest anyone should boast about their spiritual performance! God, out of His great love for us, freely gave up His only begotten son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. That means we don’t have to be “good enough,” and never could be good “good enough” to earn God’s grace, but accept it by faith in Jesus. 

Is that amazing or what?

So, when reflecting back on your spiritual “performance,” remember that, by God’s standard (which is the only one that matters), we all fall short of perfection and would score a 0 out of 10 “if we’re going to go with a scale rating.” But, “by grace… through faith,”  we can accept the gift of God and be saved. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that Your standard of being good is not like the worlds. Lord, help us to refrain from comparing ourselves to others, and thereby fooling ourselves into thinking we are better than we truly are. Help us to stay humble by always remembering that, without Your grace, we would be destined for hell. Thank You Father for the gift of Your Son and the eternal life He provided to all those who choose to trust in Hin. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Be a Man of Courage

“Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong. Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 BSB

As my husband and I pulled up to the 2026 Show Me State Games Road Race early yesterday morning, I knew directing this year's race would look a little different than in years past. Not only had the Salvation Army partnered with the 5k/10k, but they were onsite to honor a young man who had served with the organization from a young age. SPC Jason D. Fingar, a native of Columbia, MO was killed in action during his first deployment in Afghanistan with Operation Enduring Freedom while assigned to the 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 5th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.

Per the information listed, I came to know and share with the runners that "Jason had been awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Driver and Mechanic Badge during his military career. Jason was actively involved with The Salvation Army from birth and was an avid musician, playing guitar, piano and brass instruments as part of The Salvation Army church band." 

Much of that was easy to announce over the microphone until I had to read this part, "He was a soldier at the Columbia Corps Community Center and believed that you could be a man of God and still fight for your country – and he did so proudly. He loved to read the Bible...” "Oh how we need more men like that," I thought to myself as I fought back tears. "Men that will stand up for their country and for God no matter the outcome or pushback." 

Later that evening, I went on to discover that Corey Phan, a member of Jason's platoon, believed Fingar was in his platoon for a reason — to share God’s word with his fellow soldiers. He went on to say, "God’s will was done with Jason because any time anybody was in despair, he always had a way to motivate them and tell them how he overcomes everything.”

Wow, right? 

And, you know, Paul was also a man who was known for standing up for God no matter the outcome and urged his brothers and sisters at Corinth to do the same by being on the alert, standing firm in the faith, and being men (and women) of courage known for their strength. All of this Paul said, was to be done in love. 

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV

This was Paul’s rallying cry for them and for us—a cry for believers to remain spiritually vigilant, doctrinally steadfast, and brave in the face of cultural opposition and moral challenges. Especially as the end days draw near and we see a rise in false teachings and persecution against God's followers.

Which means that we must "study to shew" ourselves approved unto God by reading our Bibles each and every day. 

So, knowing that the only life worthy of honoring is a life lived for Jesus, seek to leave a legacy worth remembering my friend. Love God, serve others, and be a person known for being courageous. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are to mature in our faith and strong in our convictions and beliefs. Help us to be men and women of courage that are worth remembering Lord that we might lead others to You by the way that we live our lives. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

God's Good Work will Continue

“being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;” Philippians 1:6 NKJV

In an inspiring story aired by KWQC6, it was reported that when the first Bix 7 (an iconic 7-mile race through downtown Davenport, Iowa) launched in 1975, only 84 runners crossed the starting line. Ed Lillis was one of them — and more than 50 years later, he is still coming back.

Lillis, now 80, is one of only four runners from that original field who competed in all 50 years of the race.

“I was one of the 84 that came and ran that one, just like a lot of other ones,” Lillis said. “But then only four of us stuck with it for 50 years. And so two years ago, the 50th took place, and that was a lot of fun. But I think we’ve all gone through our share of medical trials and tribulations.”

Hip surgeries haven’t stopped him. Despite hip surgeries, Lillis has continued to participate in the race each year.

“There’s been some challenges, you know, that are just outside of your control,” he said. “But it’s always been a great excuse to try and stay in some degree of shape, just in case you can do it when the time comes.”

This year, Lillis will run the two-mile race.

Pretty amazing right?

And, you know, in the same way that Lillis continues to “participate in the race each year,” God continues to do “a good work” in every believer that will not be complete “until the day of Jesus Christ.”

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

What does this mean? Well…. It means that God began the initial work of bringing us to faith at the time of our salvation. At that time, we were made alive in Christ—regenerated and made new. Then, through an ongoing, lifelong process called sanctification, God finishes, perfects, and completes His work in us—using our challenges, trials, and tribulations to grow us and to transform us into the image of His Son. 

And, since this is entirely God's doing and not a result of human effort, we don't have to worry that age will stop the process. 

So, seek the Lord with your whole heart each and every day my friend knowing that strict spiritual training will keep you growing and running the race until you reach that final finish line. And that is the place where God's "good work in you" will finally be complete. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for continuing the sanctification process in us so that we will continually grow in our faith and look more like Jesus. Help us to understand that this series of steps will involve challenges that You will use to grow our faith in a way that will make us more like Jesus. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 
Happy Running! 

Bust out the Church Walls

“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25 NKJV

Having not been at church for three consecutive Sundays, my husband Larry and I were overcome with joy on Tuesday night to spend an evening fellowshipping with several of our “church family” members with whom we serve on the Board of our local Pregnancy Help Center. 

And while we shared several stories, a few somber moments, and some laughter as we conducted our monthly business meeting, the real communion began after the meeting was over and we began to talk about life and all the good things God was doing. 

“I’ve missed you Kim,” I said to one of my dear friends as we talked in the quaint kitchen of the home where the meeting was graciously held. I went on to say, “I feel like we haven’t been to church in forever.” “I feel you sister,” she responded before elaborating on all the adventures she, herself, had been on over the last few weeks. Between traveling to record a Christian podcast, record music, and write for her website (of which I’m blessed to be a writer), she had been as busy as Larry and I had.

I then updated her on all the amazing places and races the Lord had allowed my husband and I to travel to as Race Directors and summed up our ventures by saying, “We’ve been out working in the missions field and it’s been exciting!” 

This was something I could honestly say as my spouse and I view everywhere we go as an opportunity to share the Gospel. I then shared with her how our unique job gives us an uncommon platform to talk to people we might never see on Sunday mornings—people that we share the Gospel with. To which she replied, “We’re bustin out of those church walls sister! I pray more people will do that.”

And, you know, while it’s true that believers aren’t to make “forsaking the assembling of ourselves together” “the manner” or habit as some do, it’s also true that when we, as individuals, are called to the missions field, (wherever that might be) that we aren’t to allow church attendance to keep us from going wherever God is calling us to go and doing whatever it is God is calling us to do.

“Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.” 1 Corinthians 12:27-31

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” Matthew 28:19-20

“Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.” Luke 14:23

You see, while church can certainly be defined as a house of worship and a place where believers come together to praise the Lord, to encourage one another, to grow in the knowledge of His Word, and to consider ways "to stir up love and good works" in our brothers and sisters, church can also be defined as “the body of Christ,” made up of individuals with different talents and unique gifts—talents and gifts that are given to these individuals by God to “go out” and share the gospel and to make disciples.

Did you get that “go out” part? This means there will be times when each one of us will need to, as my friend Kim says, “bust out the walls of the church” to go out  “into the highways and hedges” of our communities to compel the lost to seek Jesus before it’s too late.

Now, while the way we do this might look different for everyone, one thing is the same… we are the church wherever we go.

So, if God is calling you to “go out” into the missions field, by all means go out my friend! But be sure to not forsake “assembling” with those in the body of Christ as often as you can… especially as we see the Day approaching. This is the place where you and I can be sharpened, strengthened, and refreshed for whatever God has in store for us. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that “church” is not only a building but the body of Christ, commissioned with the job of going out and making disciples. Lord, as we see the Day approaching, help us see the importance of fellowshipping that we might encourage one another to stay strong and complete the mission You have for us. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Limit the Junk Food

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog

Now let's get started by talking about National Junk Food Day that happens every year on July 21 (yesterday). While the day is a celebration of uninhibited eating, nutritionists, dentists, and coaches like me often use the holiday as a gentle reminder of the importance of maintaining balance. Because junk foods are highly dense in sugars, starches, fats, and salt, enjoying them on this specific day is meant to be a fun, temporary detour from an otherwise healthy lifestyle.

But here's the deal, many of us don't have "an otherwise healthy lifestyle" but consume "junk food" (think processed and fast food) regularly. The problem with that? You can't out-train a poor diet--meaning a poor diet will affect your performance. 

So, with National Junk Food Day in the rear view mirror and Week 3 of official Bass Pro Marathon, Half Marathon, and Dogwood Canyon Trail Run training programs starting Saturday, let's talk about why it's a great time to revamp your diet. 
This means training your mind to make healthy choices, training your body to recover well, and training your will to choose foods that help you perform instead of foods that hold you back.

With that being said, let's get into the weeds with this and talk about.... 

Why Junk Food Hurts Running Performance

1. It Doesn't Provide Lasting Energy

Highly processed foods loaded with refined sugars create quick spikes in blood sugar followed by energy crashes. Instead of steady endurance, you'll often feel sluggish before your run is even over.

Your body performs best when fueled by complex carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins that provide consistent energy.

2. Recovery Takes Longer

Hard workouts create tiny amounts of muscle damage that must be repaired. Junk food provides calories but very few of the nutrients your muscles actually need.

Protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants help rebuild stronger muscles and prepare you for your next workout.

3. It Increases Inflammation

Many processed foods are high in refined oils, added sugars, and sodium that can contribute to inflammation throughout the body.

Inflammation can leave runners feeling sore longer, increase fatigue, and make it harder to bounce back between training sessions.

4. It Can Lead to Unwanted Weight Gain

Running becomes easier when you're carrying less unnecessary weight.

Consistently eating calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods can make training feel harder than it needs to be and place additional stress on your joints with every step.

5. It Weakens Your Immune System

Marathon training already places stress on your body. A diet filled with junk food may leave your immune system less prepared to fight off illness.

Missing a week of training because you're sick is much more difficult than simply saying "no" to a drive-thru meal.

6. Poor Nutrition Means Poor Recovery

Recovery doesn't begin after the race—it begins after every workout.

Your muscles need carbohydrates to replace glycogen, protein to repair tissue, and fluids and electrolytes to restore what was lost through sweat. Junk food simply doesn't provide those nutrients in the amounts your body needs.

7. Mental Performance Matters Too

Nutrition doesn't just affect your legs—it affects your brain.

Highly processed foods can leave you feeling tired, unfocused, and unmotivated. Good nutrition helps improve concentration, mood, decision-making, and the mental toughness required to push through difficult workouts.

Every Food Choice Is Part of Your Training

Many runners think training only happens when the watch starts.

In reality, every meal, every snack, every drink, every night of sleep, and every recovery decision becomes part of your training plan.

When you choose water instead of soda…
When you grab fruit instead of fig newtons…
When you prepare dinner instead of relying on fast food…

You're building the same discipline that helps you finish long runs and cross finish lines.

Train Your Will

Running teaches us that discipline often beats motivation.

The same principle applies in the kitchen.

There will always be temptations. Convenience foods are everywhere (and I mean everywhere). But every healthy choice strengthens something far more valuable than your muscles—it strengthens your will.  

The will to choose what helps instead of what hurts. Fast food might taste good in the moment but too much of it will hurt your performance. Choose whole foods! Keep in mind that this means you must think ahead. Plan for the day and pack your food so you won't be tempted to give in. 

The will to think long-term instead of momentary satisfaction. This discipline will pay dividends since the race is completed one mile at a time. A long-term attitude will lead to long-term success. 

The will to become the healthiest version of yourself. For real! Gaining the discipline to eat right will spill over into other areas of your life as cutting out "junk food" not only makes you feel better but it makes you think better! 

Week 3 Challenge

As you head into Week 3 of the official Bass Pro Marathon, Half Marathon, and Dogwood Canyon Trail Run training, don't just commit to completing every workout.

Commit to fueling every workout as best as you can.

This week, challenge yourself to:

• Drink more water.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables.

• Include lean protein with your meals.

• Shop on the outside perimeter of the grocery store where the whole foods are found.

• Limit highly processed foods and sugary drinks.

• Read ingredient labels before buying packaged foods. This is super important!! Many "healthy" foods aren't. 

Remember, the best runners aren't simply those who train the hardest. They're the runners who consistently make choices that help their bodies perform at their best. And our bodies perform at our best when we treat them well by training properly and eating properly. After all, what you put in is what you get out right?

And there you have it friends. Those are some great reasons to limit your intake of "junk food," aka fast food and ultra processed food, even if you're not training for one of the great events that the Bass Pro Fitness Series has to offer. But if you're not training, I have great news! There's still time to get signed up. Hope to see you at the start line! Happy Running!