Not motivated to move? Get competitive!

Kim Venti, Muncy, PA — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 14:58:20 GMT

I recently started working out again after about a year off (the time off was originally due to an injury, then lack of motivation). I do 40 minutes of cardio on my elliptical each time, so it is very easy to keep track of the calories burned--just a simple chart on graft paper is all I need! My goal is to burn more calories each time I work out. Very simple, but also very effective for me because I am a competitive person, even if it is only with myself! Good luck!

Not motivated to move? Get competitive!

peter wallin, Mimai, Florida — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:36:41 GMT

My best motivator for running is the right music so that the beat matches my gait. Some of Rob Orbison's songs are the best for me and I spend time to find the rigjht beat in other music. I t really makes a difference.

Not motivated to move? Get competitive!

peter wallin, Mimai, Florida — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:37:22 GMT

My best motivator for running is the right music so that the beat matches my gait. Some of Rob Orbison's songs are the best for me and I spend time to find the right beat in other music. It really makes a difference.

Not motivated to move? Get competitive!

Lincoln Brigham — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 17:31:15 GMT

This article is excellent advice. Every workout at my scored one way or another - either for time, for load or for points. If someone is only going through the motions it will show up in the score. If someone is not making progress their scores won't be improving. Pretty simple, very effective.

Additionally I compete at least once a year in a 5k road race and a weightlifting competition. I also log my best erg rowing times into an international database so I can compare my performance to other people my age/weight/sex. I'm 6'1", 170 pounds, 48 years old and have the top ranked 500 meter indoor row in the nation for my age/weight. Recently I ran a 5k in 26:40, a one mile in 6:50, deadlifted 341, did 32 chinups in a row and cleaned and jerked 185. I think this approach works.

Not motivated to move? Get competitive!

Jennifer, Cleveland OH — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 18:13:43 GMT

This is great advice. I work out with a trainer in a small group and I don't push myself as hard if other people aren't there. I get competative with them in my mind and push myself to keep up, beat or even just show off.

Not motivated to move? Get competitive!

Richard, San Diego, CA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 23:52:23 GMT

Signed up with my wife for Team in Training to do a Marathon to help get us back in shape. The motivation that you get from running with such a large group is amazing. Best thing we've done for ourselves this year and first time that age old new years resolution is getting fulfilled