by Liz
A little healthy competition can bring about some desired results. Competition with others or just yourself can be a motivating tool. Recently, I’ve found that my biggest competition is myself, however I do like to compete with others when I can. Usually unsuspecting folks too.
For instance, last night during my usual Wednesday swim activity I found myself sharing a lane with a familiar swimmer. So familiar that I’ve nicked-named him “Torpedo” because I don’t know his real name and he swims so fast. He gets in and just goes goes goes, through his routine. The great thing about his speedy excursion is that I benefit with little extra push/drive in my own swim.
Although Torpedo is lapping me and I’m sure that is not going to stop, I always try to increase my pace enough so I get just a little further each time before he passes me. It’s a game that helps me get out of my head more, kick up my pace, and let my inner swim goddess dance when I kick my own ass.
Talking to Jamie she too, said she applies a similar unrequited competition when out for runs. Why not, right? It is great to have that friendly competition and break up the monotony of an activity. That increases the likelihood that the burnout rate will decrease. I hear all the time how exercising with a friend is a good thing, it drives you a little further and gives you additional accountability.
However, if you’re a do it aloner (kinda like me) then you can either compete with yourself and previous times or on the unsuspecting athlete who is just getting their work out in too. You never know, maybe they are competing against you too.
