If you like to be challenged but you don’t have time for a structured group program, these challenges may be for you. Both the Bookworm Challenge and the 500 Strong Challenge are self-driven (do on your own). There is no form to submit, and you can start either challenge any month that works best for you.
The idea behind this program is that some of you have resolutions, goals, or intentions for the new year. If your goals include wanting to get more fit or spending more time reading, these challenges may help keep you on track. Just select a month to start and create or print off a blank calendar. You can easily find them on Excel or online.
- 500 Strong Challenge. This challenge invites you to do 500 reps (repetitions) of any strength exercise (push-ups, pull-ups, squats, crunches, etc.) over the course of one month. Start slow – maybe 5 reps a day for week one, 10 reps a day for week two and on up. The rules are simple: 1) select just one exercise to challenge yourself, 2) make sure the exercise is difficult enough to challenge you over the course of the month but not too difficult to try, 3) complete 500 reps in a month. Use your calendar (or any tracking form you create) to record your reps.
- Bookworm Challenge. This challenge invites you to read 500 minutes over the course of one month (audio books do NOT count). Record the minutes you read each day on your own tracking form. The Bookworm Challenge is a good challenge to share with your children to get them in the habit of reading. Share with other family members, friends, or colleagues, by all reading the same book. If you need some book ideas – check out Cowles Library or the University Book Club! For more information on the University Book Club, send an email to chibnall@drake.edu, sara.heijerman@drake.edu, or erica.mcgowan@drake.edu.
Reward yourself if you successfully complete either challenge, and then come up with a new one-month challenge that fits with your goals or passions.
Give it a try and have fun!
— Linda Feiden, Human Resources