I usually chase new goals when the mood strikes—no New Year’s resolutions required. However, at the start of 2025, I found myself unintentionally setting two goals: to be more active and to explore more of what my community had to offer.
Tracking Down Local Resources
As I sought external drivers to keep me on track with these goals, I discovered various local run clubs, adult swim leagues, and group exercise classes that connected to my strengths and interests. I inevitably decided to start with a self-paced goal before committing to a group setting, but I was pleasantly surprised at the number of group activities hosted in my area.
After weeks of searching for the right motivator, it finally clicked: I could train for a triathlon!
I was a former competitive runner and swimmer, and I knew how to ride a bike, so I figured I could pick all three up again since I already knew the basics. Don’t get me wrong; it’s still been a challenge, but it’s also shown me so many new things about myself (and my community) that have made it incredibly rewarding.
To make my goal achievable, I chose a sprint-distance, pool swim triathlon option for my first race. Within these parameters, I found the Columbia Association Triathlon on June 22, 2025, which entails a 400-yard pool swim, a 10-mile bike ride, and a 3-mile run. Thirteen-plus miles of straight cardio is a daunting task, but I am ready to push myself!
Tackling Training Spots
Training added a new level of logistics and routine changes. First of all, where was I going to swim?! Luckily, the YMCA of Frederick County became an incredible resource, since I could use their open swim times without needing a full membership. This also opened up a new area of Frederick that I didn’t visit often, which reintroduced me to a delicious lunch spot called 7th Street Sandwich Shop!
Next, I needed to find safe paths to ride my bike. To my surprise, the nearby Rock Creek Trail shared-use path I’d only run short loops on actually stretched eight miles—all the way to downtown Frederick’s Baker Park—with minimal, clearly marked road crossings. The beauty of this path (which is part of the City of Frederick’s Comprehensive Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan) made bike rides more enjoyable since it was scenic, clean, and peaceful, especially in the morning. It passes through four small parks on the way to Baker Park, so without my training, I wouldn’t have known they existed! Cycling also took me off the path occasionally, landing me in different neighborhoods, so I continued expanding my knowledge of the community.
Seeing Beyond the Path
Whether I was biking or running in new areas of Frederick, I became more aware of the different businesses I passed along the way. Whether I jogged past a neat downtown shop like Ivy’s Haven Boutique or rode in a park near highly-rated restaurants like P.I.G.S. BBQ, these workouts reminded me of the incredible offerings available. Training for this race also pointed me to healthier meal options, activewear & sports gear, and bike repair services, so supporting more local entrepreneurs is another pleasant result of my fitness journey.
Not only am I training for this race, but I am unintentionally “training” to be a tourist in a place I thought I was already very familiar with! Plus, I’ll get to explore new places as I (hopefully) compete in different triathlon races in the future.
So, even if you are not gearing up for a major competition or looking to try a new outdoor sport, this is a gentle reminder to never stop exploring or appreciating your community, because it can always offer little surprises.
Reimagining (and Exploring) Places With You,
Kayla and the PPR Strategies team
