Using competition as a motivational tool

12packAbs

12packAbs

New member
Hi all

I just wanted to share my thoughts on using competition as motivational tool for getting in shape. What I'm referring to is sport competition.

I've always worked out. A lot. But then I've always really enjoyed food. And eaten. A lot. What I have found out about myself is that I need to have the foods that I enjoy. I envy those that do not have a sweet tooth or whatever. I love it all. And in large quanitites too. Anyway, I digress...back to my point...

I have had periods where it is difficult to motivate myself to get out on my bike for a training ride, or get into the gym or whatever. What I have found that motivates me very well, is competing in a sport - for me, it is cycling. The thought of a gruelling 2hr race that is coming up in X number of weeks is a great motivator for me. I think, holy crap, look at that monstrosity of a hill - and I have to climb that thing 6 times in the race? Yikes! Gotta keep riding.

So, for those of you that are jogging let's say. Have you ever done a 5km/5mile race? It can be a great motivator to get you going. Why not join a learn to run clinic? There are lots of other people in the same situation that are learning to run. And there are tons of short runs all the time! Why not take the plunge and do it. Once you conquer the first distance, try to beat your time...and then move to the next longer distance eventually. If you've never competed in a race before, it's pretty amazing how motivating it can be. There are people at the finish line cheering you on! How cool is that!?!

Something to think about.
 
It's a great idea, I'd just be worried about people getting over competitive... I guess high school sports days have put me off competition forever.
 
Well, I'm not talking about sports to the death at the colliseum. Or national championships at stake. Mmmm....steak....anyway, I digress...

I'm talking about average Joe/Jane doing like a 5k run, or a try-a-tri triathlon, or whatever. It's is not that competitive.

And the competition is what YOU make it. If you make it a big deal, then it is.
 
12pack,

I agree with it being a motivator. Last year I entered my first tri just for shits and giggles. I came in last out of all the men... but I wasn't competing, I was just trying to finish... for me. This year I was in better shape, and I had a new secret weapon, a road bike. Finishing 3rd in my age category has now become an even bigger motivator for me for next year. My new goal is top 15 overall...
 
I am a very competitive person... but the person that I compete with the most - is myself... I have to always do something better than I did it before...

I absolutely think it's a great motivator.... but i also think that some people can get carried away with it... and somewhere along the line - competition gets in the way of common sense.
 
HI,
I am thinking about competing in the Fame Competition. It is the model fitness category, not the extremely muscular competition. I too have always worked out but never gotten to the exact goal that I have wanted for myself.

Thanks,
Jill
 
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