I happen to know that I have forgotten a piece of the Pledge of Allegiance. I know this because I had my bootcampers doing pushups while they recited it a couple of weeks ago… and realized I couldn’t get much past “to the flag of the United States of America” without needing a prompt.
To be fair to myself, I didn’t have the same 8 years of daily recitation in grade school into junior high that most people did—my French class was at that time for my last two years of it so my last two years I “jou’ed fidelite” en francais rather than in English.
But that is so incredibly not my point here it’s somewhat embarrassing.
My point was to share this study.
Essentially, the researchers took 14 non-competitive runners (I’m not sure precisely what that means, for the record, as I think every runner needs to have SOME competitive streak inside them to get them across whatever finish line, even if the finish line is back at their front door) and tried to find out where they reached their best training zones.
They found something that doesn’t require fancy gadgets or contraptions or tortuous death traps. Nope, they just used the Pledge of Allegiance.
When exercising at about or below the level appropriate for their level of training, all runners were able to recite The Pledge of Allegiance comfortably.
Please notice, this was NOT a maximal training schedule or interval work to increase lactate threshold: the point of the study was to confirm a specific level that everyone could reach on their own and gauge independently.
Looks like they found it in the stars and stripes!
So take this with you today: are you able to recite the Pledge of Allegiance with comfortable difficulty or is it so simple you could sing it? Try to reach a speed when you are walking or running that makes your recitation of whatever you choose just this side of a challenge.
If you want help figuring out a plan for your springtime fitness, I’m here! We can meet in person, over the phone, Skype, email; whatever works for you!
Another aside: The Diabetic Youth Foundation is holding two fundraising walks this spring! One in Sacramento CA and the other in the Bay Area (Fremont). They are looking for walkers and for FUNraisers!! https://www.facebook.com/familiesintheforest
One month to get 20 more teams and $30000 for the Sacramento walk. Can it be done??? I do believe it can. If Bearskin Meadow Camp, Families in the Forest Walk & FUNraiser for DYF or diabetes has been a part of your life, it’s time to register and FUNraise!!! Go to www.firstgiving.com/dyf to join the Sacramento 2011 walk on April 10th 
The mission of the Diabetic Youth Foundation is to improve the quality of life for children, teens and families affected by diabetes. The Foundation provides education and recreation within a supportive community, encouraging personal growth, knowledge and independence.
