The story in Albuquerque this fall is still the Rio Grande. It’s running high and fast, and this week I went out to see it from the middle.
I took the I-40 Trail heading west, to the short stretch known as the Gail Ryba Memorial Pedestrian Bridge. The red arches run right alongside I-40 as it passes over the Rio Grande, shaded by cottonwoods, and they carry you out over the river.
From the middle of the bridge, looking north, you get the same view that travelers heading west on I-40 see for a second or two as they cross the river. On foot, you can stop and take it all in: the wide brown water, the bosque on both banks, and the Jemez Mountains on the horizon.
This Week’s Numbers (Polar Flow)
- Steps: 114,104 (about 16,300 a day)
- Calories: 17,869 (about 2,550 a day)
- Average sleep: 7 hours, 32 minutes
This week’s lesson: Some of the best views are the ones everyone else drives past. Thousands of people cross the Rio Grande on I-40 every day, but only the walkers and cyclists get to stop and see it. Find a place near you that you usually see from a car, and go see it on foot.
Track Your Own Week
How did your week go? Tell me in the comments, or join me in the Howtobefit Community, my free coaching group on Facebook. If you’re ready for a plan, see the programs and offers I recommend. And for every week, follow along in the Coach’s Log.
Coach Rich
Rich Dafter is the founder of HowToBeFit.com, a lifelong runner, former ACE Certified Personal Trainer, BODi Coach since 2007, and Polar athlete and brand ambassador for 40 years. At 75, he continues to run, hike, strength train, and share practical strategies for fitness, strength, nutrition, longevity, and more. Learn more about Rich Dafter on the About page.
