Some thoughts on motivation...

In the past, I have had success, but then I lose it all because I set my exercise goals TOO HIGH. My mistake? I have tried to become a competitive athlete, rather than just "fit". Now, I'm not suggesting that entering 5Ks and similar races is bad-- but I tend to go nuts with the whole fitness concept and work out too much, too many times a day, and then I get injured and then---poof-- the whole mojo disappears. During a fitness seminar, a trainer from St. George said that one of the biggest issues people have on fitness ranches is that they have the "Biggest Loser" do or die mentality, go big or go home. Really, she suggested, we need to just commit to being strong, healthy, and fit for everyday health. She said the key is to train to be healthy for daily life, not to be an athlete. That can come later, if that is where the road leads you. This time I am taking it slow and steady, eyes on the prize, and reminding myself that it took time to add weight on, and it'll take time to get it off. I want to be fit, strong, and healthy. I don't want to blow out my knees, strain my back, and ache constantly due to overdoing it. I love road races, and they are great motivators-- and I have a few on my radar-- but I have learned that there is a huge difference between training for the Ironman and just making progress on a sensible, committed pace. Deep thoughts by Mel!