Bonum Cursum

During the week, life is all about juggling work, responsibilities, and the daily grind. Most people use those five days to recharge for the weekend or keep the usual routine going—rarely do they look forward to working out in the middle of it all. But for me, the work doesn’t stop just because it’s Tuesday. The training starts quietly in the background: a run after a long shift, hill sprints before dinner, or strength workouts squeezed into a tired evening. It’s all part of getting ready for the weekend—the real reward.

I see more people doing it now—fitting in weekday training to make their weekends count. Trail races, long hikes, cycling trips… it’s becoming more common to prepare, not just react. Still, I think many folks keep their effort packed into the weekend only. That’s fine—it’s their rhythm. But for me, the joy comes from the full cycle: weekday prep fueling weekend freedom.

This rhythm isn’t new to me, either. Since I was young, weekends were always filled with something memorable. My parents made sure of it. Whether it was a forest walk, a small peak, or a day outside with a backpack and a snack, we never just sat around. I carried that habit on—sometimes going solo, sometimes with friends or college buddies—and now, getting to share that with my own family is honestly one of the coolest parts. Seeing the next generation enjoy the trails, the climbs, the effort and reward—that’s what keeps me going.

By Friday night, I’m not thinking about rest—I’m thinking about the plan. I check the weather, lay out my gear, and decide if it’s a solo mission, a group adventure, or a family hike. I’ve done the work during the week. My legs are ready, my lungs are trained, and my spirit’s itching for the outdoors.

The weekend becomes more than just a break. It’s a tradition, a personal challenge, and a way to reconnect—with nature, with myself, and with those around me. And yeah, by Sunday evening, I might be walking funny and craving a mountain-sized meal, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Being a weekend warrior isn’t about being the fastest or the fittest. It’s about showing up, staying ready, and finding joy in every step—even the uphill ones. Especially the uphill ones.