This October I'll be turning 50 years old. I am using this as my excuse for just about anything and everything these days.

One of the things I decided around New Year's was to give myself permission to exercise as much as I want all year. I adore working out but often allow other commitments to get in the way. Not in 2011!

Here's what I've accomplished so far.

Running 145 miles

Biking 99 miles

Walking 27 miles

Elliptical 21 miles

Swimming 11 miles

Rowing 9 miles

A couple of weeks ago I started lifting weights again, too, and am doing that 3 days a week now.

My blood pressure is low, my resting heart rate has dropped, and the pants that didn't fit after Christmas fit great again.

Need some inspiration? Here you go.