“The first wealth is health, and it hurts to be broke.”

Allow me to officially introduce myself. My name is Ed Walker, and I am the President of ArmadaGlobal. Prior to my role here, I was the President of Transamerica Direct. (Don’t worry, I won’t list my entire resume.)

Over the years, I have completed many athletic endurance events, from 5Ks and marathons to epic races like Leadville 100 and the Kona Ironman World Championship in Hawaii. The ultimate suffer-fest!

And I’ve got to tell you, it never gets easy. On many occasions, I have wanted to hit the snooze button rather than get out of bed and jump into a cold pool. I’ve never once rolled out of bed in the morning and said, “I think I’ll do a 10K today.” Each race takes work, planning, training and the commitment to achieving what you set out to do.

Add that on top of a hectic work schedule and a packed home life with a son and daughter growing up at hyper speed, and you might think I’m crazy. But the satisfaction you get from a full, happy and healthy life is unbeatable. And the fulfillment of setting a goal and crossing that finish line—well, you’ve got to feel that for yourself.

I know that it’s easy to get complacent with your health. I know how it feels to be overwhelmed by work. I know the true meaning of busy. But you can’t get stuck in one section of your life. Balance is key. Let me share a couple of tips I’ve learned along the way.

Over the next month or so, I will be training for the Baltimore Marathon on October 15th. I invite you to follow me on this journey, and I hope you’ll be inspired to make healthy choices in your life, too. Remember, it’s never easy, but it’s worth it.

I saw a quote the other day that read, “Set your goal, tell the world, walk your talk.” Well, this is me walking my talk. Why don’t you walk—or run—with me?

Follow me on twitter:@TriWalker