Tuesday On The Treadmill

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Added: Wed Nov 14th 11:51am
Posted in: Fitness

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Let me be the first to admit … I don't look forward to going to the gym. I've heard stories of people who really thrive on the adrenaline and endorphin rush -- who can't wait to hit the treadmill, or the free weights. In fact, you'll meet plenty of people on this site: people like Joe and Carol Neal, who compete in triathlons all over the world. And people like Wendy Chioji, a cancer survivor who now kicks serious butt in any competition she takes on. Sandy Scott overcame a broken back to return to the Masters cycling circuit. I could go on and on, and if you're inspired to learn more, make sure you check out our sports page. To get there, click on GBLife at the top of your page. We have radio interviews, video features stories and much more.

But I digress … because, after all, we're talking about me. :)

For the last year, I've re-committed myself to living a healthy, active lifestyle. I found it very easy to fulfill that promise mentally, but physically it's been a different story. Thinking about what I eat every moment of every day -- it's exhausting. And forcing myself to get the exercise I need -- has been a hassle.

I make little deals with myself to get the job done. I am a slave to the i-pod, like many others, but when I download new songs, I force myself to ONLY listen to them at the gym. That makes me want to go. I also give myself treats if I complete a workout. That can be anything from a glass of wine, to an ice cream bar, to a bubble bath. But the biggest success I've found so far, is to trick myself into thinking I'm *not exercising.

Stay with me here … it's all about multi-tasking. So if I have to go on the treadmill, I will not only have my i-pod on, but I'll read a book and watch television. All at the same time. That way, one of the mediums will work, and distract me long enough to get 30 minutes in before I realize what's happened. Last night, the Syracuse University basketball game was on television at the gym, and that was a great diversion. It was a nail-biter (we did win) so I couldn't take my eyes off the screen to watch the clock on the treadmill. All of a sudden, 40 minutes had gone by!

So, what are *your tricks? Believe me, I could use the help! Post a comment … or send me a private message.