Search the Community

I did it. Like Neo, I have chosen the red pill and am now learning just how deep the rabbit hole goes. I'm so new to the world outside the Matrix. In my life as a coppertop, I was an overweight long-distance runner who managed to get injured a lot. Everything in Zion is different. I lack even the most basic survival skills. I'm relying on the advice of the other Zionists to prepare myself for facing Agents back in the Matrix. I have a looooong way to go. My Main Quest: "I know kung fu Tang Soo" I plan to join my son at his Tang Soo Dojang in March. In the meantime, I want to prepare well enough not to embarrass myself in front of my kid. Thank God I'll have 5 months. I'll need them. Goal 1: "Your muscles have atrophied. We are rebuilding them." To build more strength, I will perform the Big Six exercises as outlined in the Good Behavior program of Convict Conditioning. I have been working on this one for a few challenges now, and I like it. (This amounts to 3 strength workouts per week.) Edit: Since my ankle issue is now more of an issue, I will be modifying the Big Six until the boot comes off (mostly going back a few levels on most exercises and substituting bow pose for bridges). Goal 2: "Are you telling me I can dodge bullets?" Years of running have left me severely lacking in balance and flexibility. I will practice The Martial Artist's Book of Yoga 2 days a week (one day for kicks and one day for strikes), plus one day of yoga for core strength. A total of 3 days of yoga per week. Edit: Yoga for kicks is out for the first 4 weeks at least. I can do a modified yoga workout for strikes/core strength 3 days a week. Goal 3: "Everything the body needs." I need to get used to the food that is available in Zion. That means protein, vitamins, and minerals. No Tastee Wheat (no grains, except on 4-day vacation in October) and no orgasmic cake (no sweets). Although, I think I might arrange to see the Merovingian on my birthday...(Oct 26 is earned cheat day; if I eat sweets before then, no birthday cake!!!). Life Goal: Residual Self-Image: The mental projection of your digital self I definitely need to change my projection if I want to look badass in the Matrix. It starts with putting on makeup by 9am every morning and washing it off every night. Side Quest: "You see an Agent? You do what we do. RUN!" Not sure yet how possible this will be. I had registered to run a Half Marathon in November, but have been plagued with a lingering ankle injury. If I get to do this one, awesome; if not, no harm, no foul. (No points, does not effect challenge grade) Edit: No way on God's green earth. Trying to decide whether to defer to next year or retire from long distance running altogether.