Find Your “Hard Thing” — The Journey That Strengthens Body and Soul

Dr. Jeni and Tara, completing 3 half marathons over 3 days.

Have you ever found yourself wondering what you’re truly capable of? Not just physically, but mentally, emotionally — the kind of challenge that pushes you, humbles you, and fills you with awe at what your body and mind can do?

At Thrive, we love health goals that stretch us. Last year, three of our team members hiked Rim to Rim across the Grand Canyon — a feat only about 2% of Grand Canyon visitors ever complete. The experience left us amazed, grateful, and inspired to ask, What’s next?

That question led to our next adventure: three half-marathons in three days, each through a different national park — Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Antelope Canyon — as part of the Grand Circle Trailfest. Every course brought its own unique challenge: switchbacks that burned the lungs, sand that felt like running on a beach without the ocean breeze, and breathtaking slick rock that made us pause just to take it all in. The beauty was otherworldly — red rock, canyons, hoodoos — pure wonder in motion.

But this isn’t really about the races. It’s about what it took to get there — the journey.

Over the year leading up to those races, we faced it all: injuries, illness, family schedules, and the never-ending demands of work and life. We trained early, lifted heavy to prevent injuries, fueled our bodies with protein and proper nutrition, and supported recovery with Perfect Aminos. Some Fridays, our “long runs” started before sunrise — even after coaching our kids' volleyball team or spending 12 hours painting a motel. It wasn’t easy. But it was worth it.

Because every step reminded us — our bodies are created to do hard things.

And here’s where you come in. Your “hard thing” doesn’t have to be a Grand Canyon hike or three half-marathons. Maybe it’s your first 5K, a new strength training program, joining a pickleball league, or simply committing to hiking your favorite trail once a week. The goal doesn’t matter as much as the growth that comes with it.

The point is to choose something that excites you — something that makes you want to get up, train, and feel alive in your own skin. When you find movement you love, exercise becomes more than a task — it becomes a part of who you are.

So here’s your challenge: What’s your “hard thing”? What would a year of consistent training, growth, and self-belief look like for you?

If you’re ready to take that first step — to set a goal, build a plan, and strengthen your body from the inside out — we’d love to help you get started. Our team at Thrive Functional Health can guide you toward the right nutrition, recovery, and training strategies to support your unique journey.

Because the path to health isn’t always easy — but it’s always worth it.

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This information should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all healthcare concerns, decisions, and actions must be made through the advice and counsel of a healthcare professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.