Want to challenge yourself? Forget running or biking a wimpy 26.2 mile marathon.

Instead try 1,000 miles.

That's exactly what a friend Joe Tegeder recently did. Amazing. Superhuman!

And yet, Joe is just a regular... well, Joe.

He was able to achieve this significant accomplishment in just over nine months.

To put the distance in context, 1,000 miles is equal to running from Seattle to Salt Lake City, with another six more marathons tacked on. Yeah, ... like REALLY far!

I recently got to sit down with Joe to learn about his journey into fitness and to gain some tips on how an everyday guy could accomplish a superhuman feat.

[Q & A with Joe Tegeder]

Recently your cumulative running and biking over the past nine months passed 1,000 miles. What does 1,000 miles mean to you? [JT] 1000 miles is amazing to me.  Keeping track of my activities has been a great way to see my progress which in itself has been a great motivator at times to keep pushing forward.

What inspired you to get into running, biking and swimming? [JT] I have been running off and on since 2000 but really started running on a consistent basis around May 2009.  My inspiration came in many forms.  The main one was that I moved from Mississippi to Seattle in January of 2009 weighing in around 270 lbs.  I promised myself that I would make a huge lifestyle change in Seattle.  As far as being more involved with triathlon and running/biking/swimming, I have wanted to do an organized triathlon for almost 20 years.  I figured that it was now or never.  So I bought a bike and jumped right in.  When I first started it felt a little overwhelming, but after watching shows like the biggest loser and seeing the contestants twice my size running marathons, I knew it was possible.  I just had to be patient and not expect results over night.

Why do you enjoy being active? [JT] I enjoy being active because the physical changes make me feel better about myself and I have gained an entirely new confidence level about myself.

Have you noticed any health changes with your increased activity? [JT] I have noticed many health changes with my increased activity.  Everything is a little easier.  Most obvious for me is when I go snowboarding.  I am no longer out of breath strapping into the board and I can do an entie run now without stopping every few turns. Has it been difficult finding time for your training? What advice would you give a busy adult? [JT] Sure it is difficult to find time/motivation but I just try and make time.  I think you just have to make it a priority.  Even if it means waking up earlier to do it.  Every little bit counts so just get out there and do something for 30-50 min 3 times a week.  You will see a change in a few weeks, I promise.

What are you most proud about from your athletic endeavors? [JT] I am most proud that I keep setting goals for myself and achieving them.

Do you have any other tips or advice for someone who is interested in being active, but has yet to take their first step? [JT] Just get out there and do something.  Realize that you are your worst enemy. When you hear yourself making an excuse just ignore it and go for a 10 or 20 min run/walk. You will find yourself actually wanting to do more.

Thanks Joe for taking time to chat. Good luck on your next 1,000!

You're an inspiration to us all.