Comments on: A Question for You Triathletes: Why Do YOU *Really* Do Triathlons? http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why Free exercise, nutrition, weight loss, triathlon and wellness advice from the top fitness expert in the nation. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:29:12 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 By: Pink Ribbon Journey http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84830 Pink Ribbon Journey Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:10:01 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84830 I was all ready enjoying fun running when I was diagnosed with breast cancer 18 months ago. But the truth is I'm a much better swimmer than runner - so I thought I should give triathlon a go. My main motivations now are as follows: - because I drink too much booze and over eat at times and training gives me balance - doing so much exercise helps me feel strong against cancer returning - being a triathlete after having cancer makes me feel like I can do anything - I love competing as it feels like you are around all these driven fit people and it's nice to feel a part of that - yay I'm one of them! - I'm hooked on the happy endorphins and after going through tough times I've found I simply am not as happy when I don't get out there every day doing the swim, bike, run thing :) I was all ready enjoying fun running when I was diagnosed with breast cancer 18 months ago. But the truth is I'm a much better swimmer than runner – so I thought I should give triathlon a go. My main motivations now are as follows:
- because I drink too much booze and over eat at times and training gives me balance
- doing so much exercise helps me feel strong against cancer returning
- being a triathlete after having cancer makes me feel like I can do anything
- I love competing as it feels like you are around all these driven fit people and it's nice to feel a part of that – yay I'm one of them!
- I'm hooked on the happy endorphins and after going through tough times I've found I simply am not as happy when I don't get out there every day doing the swim, bike, run thing :)

]]> By: Why Do YOU Do Triathlon? « Becoming a (Semi-Decent) Triathlete…Hopefully http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84810 Why Do YOU Do Triathlon? « Becoming a (Semi-Decent) Triathlete…Hopefully Sun, 22 Jan 2012 18:04:59 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84810 [...] So take a look at Ben’s article by clicking here: http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#idc-cover [...] [...] So take a look at Ben’s article by clicking here: http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#idc-cover [...]

]]> By: Matto_W http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84798 Matto_W Sat, 21 Jan 2012 19:44:42 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84798 Im doing Ironman, I'm doing it to be noticed. Noone wants to be anonymous. I want people to curious and even impressed. Im a quiet person but I like the attention. Im doing Ironman, I’m doing it to be noticed. Noone wants to be anonymous. I want people to curious and even impressed. Im a quiet person but I like the attention.

]]> By: Jeff M http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84796 Jeff M Sat, 21 Jan 2012 19:17:06 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84796 I do triathlon because I do want to prove to myself and others that I can accomplish something in this sport. As a fat kid growing up, people made fun of me and my non-existent athletic abilities. I remember in gym class they pitted me against another overweight kid in a 100-yrd dash. At that point, I made up my mind that I wouldn't take 2nd place...and I beat him! A competitive spirit has always driven me in all areas of life, but triathlon is where I get to express it physically, emotionally, mentally, basically every aspect you can name. That first place in my category in 70.3 is still out there waiting, and I know each day I'm moving closer and closer to it. Once that's accomplished, there's only one left to do: Ironman. I do triathlon because I do want to prove to myself and others that I can accomplish something in this sport. As a fat kid growing up, people made fun of me and my non-existent athletic abilities. I remember in gym class they pitted me against another overweight kid in a 100-yrd dash. At that point, I made up my mind that I wouldn't take 2nd place…and I beat him! A competitive spirit has always driven me in all areas of life, but triathlon is where I get to express it physically, emotionally, mentally, basically every aspect you can name. That first place in my category in 70.3 is still out there waiting, and I know each day I'm moving closer and closer to it. Once that's accomplished, there's only one left to do: Ironman.

]]> By: Ben http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84795 Ben Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:32:25 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84795 This is a really good question to ask in the middle of a north american winter for many amateur atheletes. I triathlon because its fun. Its a sport which fits my personality. I can do it when I want, at the level I want. I love challenging myself with a goal that scares and excites me at the same time because I know that when I attain that goal, it'll feel that much sweeter. Triathlon folks are just the nicest group socially even if we come from so many backgrounds and have in roads into the sport that varies as much as our motivations and reasons for being at the starting line in the first place. I love to remind myself about discipline/sacrifice and not being lazy in life. The inspirational stories of triathlon refuel my soul. I want to be a good role model for my kid. And I just love being active and looking/feeling great in general. Ben L This is a really good question to ask in the middle of a north american winter for many amateur atheletes.
I triathlon because its fun. Its a sport which fits my personality. I can do it when I want, at the level I want.
I love challenging myself with a goal that scares and excites me at the same time because I know that when I attain that goal, it’ll feel that much sweeter.
Triathlon folks are just the nicest group socially even if we come from so many backgrounds and have in roads into the sport that varies as much as our motivations and reasons for being at the starting line in the first place.
I love to remind myself about discipline/sacrifice and not being lazy in life.
The inspirational stories of triathlon refuel my soul.
I want to be a good role model for my kid.
And I just love being active and looking/feeling great in general.

Ben L

]]> By: jmidkiff13 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84794 jmidkiff13 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:27:24 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84794 I'm 36 almost 37 and I do it for a sense of accomplishment. To do something most don't have the guts to try! To feel and look better of course. I like being at local YMCA and starting before everyone and ending after them. My girlfriend is a better runner than me and she is getting into triathlon and it is also something we can share in. She makes me a better runner and I make her better at the bike, and we both try to survive the swim:) lol. It's the hardest most rewarding thing I have done!! I'm 36 almost 37 and I do it for a sense of accomplishment. To do something most don't have the guts to try! To feel and look better of course. I like being at local YMCA and starting before everyone and ending after them. My girlfriend is a better runner than me and she is getting into triathlon and it is also something we can share in. She makes me a better runner and I make her better at the bike, and we both try to survive the swim:) lol. It's the hardest most rewarding thing I have done!!

]]> By: Chris http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84793 Chris Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:13:31 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84793 To quote one of the Ironman videos.. "In a perfect world we would all have a moment. Where we emerge from the darkness smiling with the light of the world on our face" Racing/Triathlon lets me have that moment a half dozen times a year To quote one of the Ironman videos..

“In a perfect world we would all have a moment. Where we emerge from the darkness smiling with the light of the world on our face”

Racing/Triathlon lets me have that moment a half dozen times a year

]]> By: Angela http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84792 Angela Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:08:42 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84792 I am pretty aware that I do triathlon not in small part because my entire family is obese - father, mother, brother, many aunts and uncles. At 6' and 155 lbs, I am the black sheep of the family - the "fit" one, the one with self control and motivation. I was chubby for about 2 years as a child, and that has stuck with me, even as I am now 35! I do triathlon to fulfill something inside myself - to squash that chubby girl, to show myself I am capable of anything I set out to do, to prove to my family that being fat is not "genetic," which is their number one excuse. Also, I really enjoy it! I am not superfast, but there really is nothing more rewarding to me than getting a podium place in my age group or setting a personal best as a result of hard work. Succeeding at work has luckily never been that difficult for me, but succeeding at sport is hard, and therefore much more rewarding! Thanks for all you do, Ben. Really enjoy the blog, podcast, and all your insights. I am pretty aware that I do triathlon not in small part because my entire family is obese – father, mother, brother, many aunts and uncles. At 6' and 155 lbs, I am the black sheep of the family – the "fit" one, the one with self control and motivation. I was chubby for about 2 years as a child, and that has stuck with me, even as I am now 35!

I do triathlon to fulfill something inside myself – to squash that chubby girl, to show myself I am capable of anything I set out to do, to prove to my family that being fat is not "genetic," which is their number one excuse.

Also, I really enjoy it! I am not superfast, but there really is nothing more rewarding to me than getting a podium place in my age group or setting a personal best as a result of hard work. Succeeding at work has luckily never been that difficult for me, but succeeding at sport is hard, and therefore much more rewarding!

Thanks for all you do, Ben. Really enjoy the blog, podcast, and all your insights.

]]> By: semidecenttri http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-84790 semidecenttri Sat, 21 Jan 2012 10:27:00 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-84790 I do triathlons for several "irrational" and "logical" reasons. #1? It took me a while to figure this out, but it's the fear of dying at an early age. My family has a history of high cholesterol and a lot of other ailments, and I want to live a happy, healthy life without all that crap. #2, I love looking good naked, and I love the slim, toned look. #3, the challenge teaches me about my limits, but more importantly teaches me that with preparation and courage, I can beat those limits into submission - triathlon gives me courage in the rest of my life. #4, saying "i'm a triathlete" is fun. #5, there is the hope for constant improvement, which buoys my self-esteem in all aspects of my life because there's always something more I can achieve in triathlon. #6, it gives me an activity to keep me busy that will never fully be accomplished (I'll never beat Macca's 2010 win in Kona), so I never get to the end and get bored of it. #7, I want to be active and healthy when I'm older, and this is the best sport to keep that a real possibility - the prospect of living the last 20 years of my life in a prison of my own body is TERRIFYING. #8, the bikes are f**king awesome. honest enough?? :) nathan @semidecenttri I do triathlons for several "irrational" and "logical" reasons.
#1? It took me a while to figure this out, but it's the fear of dying at an early age. My family has a history of high cholesterol and a lot of other ailments, and I want to live a happy, healthy life without all that crap.
#2, I love looking good naked, and I love the slim, toned look.
#3, the challenge teaches me about my limits, but more importantly teaches me that with preparation and courage, I can beat those limits into submission – triathlon gives me courage in the rest of my life.
#4, saying "i'm a triathlete" is fun.
#5, there is the hope for constant improvement, which buoys my self-esteem in all aspects of my life because there's always something more I can achieve in triathlon.
#6, it gives me an activity to keep me busy that will never fully be accomplished (I'll never beat Macca's 2010 win in Kona), so I never get to the end and get bored of it.
#7, I want to be active and healthy when I'm older, and this is the best sport to keep that a real possibility – the prospect of living the last 20 years of my life in a prison of my own body is TERRIFYING.
#8, the bikes are f**king awesome.

honest enough?? :)

nathan
@semidecenttri

]]> By: Carlos http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-57581 Carlos Tue, 19 Apr 2011 20:57:28 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-57581 So true: " you want to prove to yourself that your body is getting better, not worse." So true: " you want to prove to yourself that your body is getting better, not worse."

]]> By: The Top 5 Most Popular Blog Posts of 2010 | Ben Greenfield Fitness http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-47484 The Top 5 Most Popular Blog Posts of 2010 | Ben Greenfield Fitness Sun, 16 Jan 2011 23:58:50 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-47484 [...] #2: A Question for You Triathletes: Why Do YOU *Really* Do Triathlons [...] [...] #2: A Question for You Triathletes: Why Do YOU *Really* Do Triathlons [...]

]]> By: Katharine White http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-36022 Katharine White Fri, 08 Oct 2010 02:25:02 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-36022 I have no idea why this interests me except j"e ne se quoi," why not leverage the best of what our physical selves can contribute without any expectation in return... As an athelete my whole life and never done a marathon, but have done many miles running over the years, and understand the sacrifice for fitness over the years, I have a feeling that there is something larger than ourselves that is the output of triathalons...not sure yet what it is, but am enamored of those of you that do these for all the reasons you do...particularly those who are my age...late 50s.Keeping this conversation going will help in a critical way or me at this point in my life. I have no idea why this interests me except j"e ne se quoi," why not leverage the best of what our physical selves can contribute without any expectation in return…
As an athelete my whole life and never done a marathon, but have done many miles running over the years, and understand the sacrifice for fitness over the years, I have a feeling that there is something larger than ourselves that is the output of triathalons…not sure yet what it is, but am enamored of those of you that do these for all the reasons you do…particularly those who are my age…late 50s.Keeping this conversation going will help in a critical way or me at this point in my life.

]]> By: David http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-32680 David Sat, 28 Aug 2010 04:21:19 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-32680 I do triathlon for a variety of reasons. First is the indescribable personal satisfaction I get out of sheer physical exhaustion. I love how simple things become when I'm biking, running or swimming. Its really an escape of sorts. Therapy in other ways. An inner solitude and peace in the midst of physical exertion. I love knowing that I am doing something that most have a hard time imagining...as I once did. I love the new confidence I have found in myself. I love the potential I now see in others...knowing that if I can do it...anybody can do it. I love pushing my body...experimenting with it, tweaking it, weighing it, seeing what it can do if I do this or try that. Kind of how people like to tinker with cars. Can it go faster and farther? Even though I'm getting older and older, can I beat back my age if I get faster and faster every season? Its like a video game...but for real and the levels never end. Its addicting. Its a drug of sorts...but one with positive side effects. Its a sport thats perfect for my introverted personality. Even when I'm out there with hundreds of others, I'm all alone in my own little world....and perfectly happy there. And yet I feel the energy and comradeship of being among the few inspired enough to try such a thing. It makes me feel alive. It helps me beat back depression...which I am very prone. I love knowing that I can carry my own weight. I love knowing that if my life or someone elses life depended on it....yep...I could probably swim clear across that river or lake without much problem, or run all the way to there...where ever there is. In a way, in a somewhat conceited cocky kind of way, I like feeling just a little bit super human....even though I realize that at my level, no one but me really gives a shit what my last PR was. I do triathlon for a variety of reasons. First is the indescribable personal satisfaction I get out of sheer physical exhaustion. I love how simple things become when I'm biking, running or swimming. Its really an escape of sorts. Therapy in other ways. An inner solitude and peace in the midst of physical exertion. I love knowing that I am doing something that most have a hard time imagining…as I once did. I love the new confidence I have found in myself. I love the potential I now see in others…knowing that if I can do it…anybody can do it. I love pushing my body…experimenting with it, tweaking it, weighing it, seeing what it can do if I do this or try that. Kind of how people like to tinker with cars. Can it go faster and farther? Even though I'm getting older and older, can I beat back my age if I get faster and faster every season? Its like a video game…but for real and the levels never end. Its addicting. Its a drug of sorts…but one with positive side effects. Its a sport thats perfect for my introverted personality. Even when I'm out there with hundreds of others, I'm all alone in my own little world….and perfectly happy there. And yet I feel the energy and comradeship of being among the few inspired enough to try such a thing. It makes me feel alive. It helps me beat back depression…which I am very prone. I love knowing that I can carry my own weight. I love knowing that if my life or someone elses life depended on it….yep…I could probably swim clear across that river or lake without much problem, or run all the way to there…where ever there is. In a way, in a somewhat conceited cocky kind of way, I like feeling just a little bit super human….even though I realize that at my level, no one but me really gives a shit what my last PR was.

]]> By: TriHardr http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-25156 TriHardr Mon, 03 May 2010 18:10:34 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-25156 I do triathlons for a number of reasons but to be as frank as possible, I believe it all stems from 3 main issues: 1. I love the challenge. 2: Its a positive outlet for my unique brand of depression / self loathing. 3: Its a way to explain to other people why I train so much. During my countless hours of training over the past 2 years I have come to the conclusion that I do triathlons mostly as an excuse to train. I have always loved pushing myself to the point of physical failure and after I got injured and decided to quit martial arts I lost focus. Weight training was a great alternative but people got the wrong impression. They all started to assume I was conceited and that I was doing it for the aesthetic appeal but that wasn't the true driving force. Personally I get an unmatched sense of accomplishment from putting myself to the breaking point. And I have found that most 'normal' people don't understand. See when life gets to me nothing makes me feel better than letting it all out on the road, swimming, riding or running for hours on end just wears me down to the point where by the time I am done all that is left is the part of me that makes me proud. I do triathlons for a number of reasons but to be as frank as possible, I believe it all stems from 3 main issues:
1. I love the challenge.
2: Its a positive outlet for my unique brand of depression / self loathing.
3: Its a way to explain to other people why I train so much.

During my countless hours of training over the past 2 years I have come to the conclusion that I do triathlons mostly as an excuse to train. I have always loved pushing myself to the point of physical failure and after I got injured and decided to quit martial arts I lost focus. Weight training was a great alternative but people got the wrong impression. They all started to assume I was conceited and that I was doing it for the aesthetic appeal but that wasn’t the true driving force.
Personally I get an unmatched sense of accomplishment from putting myself to the breaking point. And I have found that most ‘normal’ people don’t understand. See when life gets to me nothing makes me feel better than letting it all out on the road, swimming, riding or running for hours on end just wears me down to the point where by the time I am done all that is left is the part of me that makes me proud.

]]> By: Brad B. http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-16133 Brad B. Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:12:04 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-16133 I started out of a fear of the heart disease that runs in my paternal bloodline and has claimed most of the men in my family before they were 65...FEAR I stuck with it because being a runner gave me something that set me apart from the average person...APPROVAL I began pushing harder when I realized that I could possibly place in my division in local races...PRIDE I became obsessed when I got injured, could not work out for a time, and realized that I was physically addicted to the endorphin rush. Now I have to push harder and/or go further to keep up the payoff...ADDICTION I started out of a fear of the heart disease that runs in my paternal bloodline and has claimed most of the men in my family before they were 65…FEAR

I stuck with it because being a runner gave me something that set me apart from the average person…APPROVAL

I began pushing harder when I realized that I could possibly place in my division in local races…PRIDE

I became obsessed when I got injured, could not work out for a time, and realized that I was physically addicted to the endorphin rush. Now I have to push harder and/or go further to keep up the payoff…ADDICTION

]]> By: Patrick http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-15126 Patrick Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:59:11 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-15126 4 words: My own personal Everest. Can't find the quote, but somewhere buried in the poetry of "Once a Runner" Cassidy discussed the contrast of the average person and the runner; how the average person, in times of greatest danger and fear, knows nothing about how far he could go, whereas the runner explores and pushes this boundary every day. That's why I do it: to figure out just how far I can go. 4 words: My own personal Everest.

Can’t find the quote, but somewhere buried in the poetry of “Once a Runner” Cassidy discussed the contrast of the average person and the runner; how the average person, in times of greatest danger and fear, knows nothing about how far he could go, whereas the runner explores and pushes this boundary every day.

That’s why I do it: to figure out just how far I can go.

]]> By: A Question for You Triathletes: Why Do YOU *Really* Do Triathlons? | Fitness Depot http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-14060 A Question for You Triathletes: Why Do YOU *Really* Do Triathlons? | Fitness Depot Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:21:48 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-14060 [...] Ben Greenfield [...] [...] Ben Greenfield [...]

]]> By: John T. http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-13151 John T. Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:51:54 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-13151 O yeah one more follow up when I'm swimming and running and biking I don't have to deal with people. Its great. O yeah one more follow up when I’m swimming and running and biking I don’t have to deal with people. Its great.

]]> By: John T. http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-13149 John T. Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:46:48 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-13149 Well me personal I'm addicted to exercise. So I need to feed the monkey on my back daily. Simple the only thing I would say about the article that I didn't really agree with is that I don't exercise and compete at this level to face my fears I do it to run from them well swim bike and then run from them to be more concise. JT Well me personal I’m addicted to exercise. So I need to feed the monkey on my back daily.

Simple the only thing I would say about the article that I didn’t really agree with is that I don’t exercise and compete at this level to face my fears I do it to run from them well swim bike and then run from them to be more concise.

JT

]]> By: Allison http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-13014 Allison Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:17:50 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-13014 I do tris because I am afraid of being a normal person, because I was very successful in my first one and since then I have become intensely competitive, because I love being able to see parts of San Diego I would never know about except through swimming, biking and running, and because I love now walking up to transition at the crack of dawn knowing that most of the girls there do not stand a chance against me. I do tris because I am afraid of being a normal person, because I was very successful in my first one and since then I have become intensely competitive, because I love being able to see parts of San Diego I would never know about except through swimming, biking and running, and because I love now walking up to transition at the crack of dawn knowing that most of the girls there do not stand a chance against me.

]]> By: Rae Trew-Browne http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-12884 Rae Trew-Browne Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:26:01 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-12884 Why do I compete in Triathlon? I guess you could ask me why do I breathe and my answer would be the same, I only completed my first Olympic distance triathlon yesterday in a time of 2h35 in some of the worst conditions I've seen in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. I honestly got scared in the swim (sea) many times I needed a breath but was being swomped by wave upon wave, then on the bike a nasty easterly did everything it could to stop me from getting back to the transition area, it was if it wanted me to fail but we pushed on and the run brought endorphins like a waterfall of honey, and when I finished all I could think about was when could I get back out there and just be... Triathlon is in my blood, in my bone marrow, it is in my lungs, in my heart, in my soul and in my mind. I am not a product of triathlon, triathlon is a product of me! My short-medium term goal is to make the SA team for the Olympic distance world champs next year, the thought of representing my country is part of the fuel that is driving this raging inferno that so powerfully burns inside of me, it gets me out of the door in elements that even an insane person could justify not training in because when it is all done and dusted it's you against the course, the guy next to you is your brother in arms till you cross the finish line and he becomes your competition. Keep tri-ing!!! Why do I compete in Triathlon? I guess you could ask me why do I breathe and my answer would be the same, I only completed my first Olympic distance triathlon yesterday in a time of 2h35 in some of the worst conditions I’ve seen in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. I honestly got scared in the swim (sea) many times I needed a breath but was being swomped by wave upon wave, then on the bike a nasty easterly did everything it could to stop me from getting back to the transition area, it was if it wanted me to fail but we pushed on and the run brought endorphins like a waterfall of honey, and when I finished all I could think about was when could I get back out there and just be… Triathlon is in my blood, in my bone marrow, it is in my lungs, in my heart, in my soul and in my mind. I am not a product of triathlon, triathlon is a product of me! My short-medium term goal is to make the SA team for the Olympic distance world champs next year, the thought of representing my country is part of the fuel that is driving this raging inferno that so powerfully burns inside of me, it gets me out of the door in elements that even an insane person could justify not training in because when it is all done and dusted it’s you against the course, the guy next to you is your brother in arms till you cross the finish line and he becomes your competition. Keep tri-ing!!!

]]> By: chris lummis http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-10987 chris lummis Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:41:45 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-10987 At first to prove that I could, then to get faster and now I realize that I love the training. The race is just the prize at the end. I love the time spent swimming, biking and running because it makes me happy. The other motivations, like looking good or the respect of friends and family are just an added bonus. At first to prove that I could, then to get faster and now I realize that I love the training. The race is just the prize at the end. I love the time spent swimming, biking and running because it makes me happy. The other motivations, like looking good or the respect of friends and family are just an added bonus.

]]> By: Angela http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-10625 Angela Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:24:52 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-10625 Why? Self esteem boost, great friendships, keep perimenopause sypmtoms in check. I am in my mid 40's and this is my first year of tri's. I never participated in sports as a kid. In fact, I just learned to swim 1 year ago. I don't mean learned better form, I mean I didn't know how to swim AT ALL. It's been one of the hardest things to learn. I hyperventiated through my first tri, but the 2nd and 3rd were much better, though slow. If I didn't tri, I wouldn't make exercise a priority, I would drink too much , and I would be bitchy (or bitchier). Why? Self esteem boost, great friendships, keep perimenopause sypmtoms in check. I am in my mid 40′s and this is my first year of tri’s. I never participated in sports as a kid. In fact, I just learned to swim 1 year ago. I don’t mean learned better form, I mean I didn’t know how to swim AT ALL. It’s been one of the hardest things to learn. I hyperventiated through my first tri, but the 2nd and 3rd were much better, though slow. If I didn’t tri, I wouldn’t make exercise a priority, I would drink too much , and I would be bitchy (or bitchier).

]]> By: Cindi John http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-10242 Cindi John Tue, 25 Aug 2009 05:10:23 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-10242 Why do I do triathlons? To prove "I can do this!" I am 54 years old and just completed my first 2 sprint triathlons, and the .9 mile swim of the Coeur d'Alene triathlon. Am I proud of this? Absolutely! It goes to show anyone can do this if they put their mind (and body!) to it! Why do I do triathlons? To prove “I can do this!” I am 54 years old and just completed my first 2 sprint triathlons, and the .9 mile swim of the Coeur d’Alene triathlon. Am I proud of this? Absolutely! It goes to show anyone can do this if they put their mind (and body!) to it!

]]> By: Jesse S. http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-9889 Jesse S. Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:36:10 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-9889 I race because I lack the self-discipline to train hard without the threat of failure. I race because I lack the self-discipline to train hard without the threat of failure.

]]> By: samantha http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-9819 samantha Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:30:38 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-9819 My gripe is only about the obsessed tri athlete - what really gets me is that the 'tri obsessed' don't understand that they are killing all their personal relationships with their obsessive selfish need to train and compete in a sport that is not social, has no real spectator interest and produces very tired, skinny and gaunt people that are kind of scary to be with as they are truly boring and dull (well the obsessed ones I have met are!) and whilst people say they are impressed that you do triathlons they are equally impressed with skiers, tennis players, sailors and other sports people, those committed and good at a sport is always impressive! Especially when they are working with others and learning that team work is o much better than selfish sports such as triathlons. In fact triathlons are only an endurance sport that test the individual against him/herself and has little social interaction - so no team building or mental tactics to winning better, just a personal PB. which for the partners of obsessive tri athletes gets a little warring. in fact we just pretend to be interested after a while as we are keen for you to exercise and enjoy yourself but obsessive tri people become dull- so what you have shaved off your PB just a few seconds here and now you then get depressed if your PB is slower, difficult to live with someone so pre occupied and self indulgent that a slower PB can affect their whole mood and alter their behaviour. Families get fed up and begin to think the obsessive tri athletes is sort of odd - I think it’s a type of depression they are dealing with an emotional need. The obsessive tri athlete is pushing themselves to the limits I have been told by experts, from a fear of facing their inner problems -wrapped up in lack of self confidence and low self esteem. This is the only way that they can feel good about themselves and can pretend they are amazing instead of balancing their lives to enjoy triathlons and other pursuits and be a normal person. They are kidding themselves and destroying their relationships - their kids would rather they had quality time with their Mom or Dad not just counting the T-shirts or Medals - ???? My gripe is only about the obsessed tri athlete – what really gets me is that the ‘tri obsessed’ don’t understand that they are killing all their personal relationships with their obsessive selfish need to train and compete in a sport that is not social, has no real spectator interest and produces very tired, skinny and gaunt people that are kind of scary to be with as they are truly boring and dull (well the obsessed ones I have met are!) and whilst people say they are impressed that you do triathlons they are equally impressed with skiers, tennis players, sailors and other sports people, those committed and good at a sport is always impressive! Especially when they are working with others and learning that team work is o much better than selfish sports such as triathlons. In fact triathlons are only an endurance sport that test the individual against him/herself and has little social interaction – so no team building or mental tactics to winning better, just a personal PB. which for the partners of obsessive tri athletes gets a little warring. in fact we just pretend to be interested after a while as we are keen for you to exercise and enjoy yourself but obsessive tri people become dull- so what you have shaved off your PB just a few seconds here and now you then get depressed if your PB is slower, difficult to live with someone so pre occupied and self indulgent that a slower PB can affect their whole mood and alter their behaviour. Families get fed up and begin to think the obsessive tri athletes is sort of odd – I think it’s a type of depression they are dealing with an emotional need. The obsessive tri athlete is pushing themselves to the limits I have been told by experts, from a fear of facing their inner problems -wrapped up in lack of self confidence and low self esteem. This is the only way that they can feel good about themselves and can pretend they are amazing instead of balancing their lives to enjoy triathlons and other pursuits and be a normal person. They are kidding themselves and destroying their relationships – their kids would rather they had quality time with their Mom or Dad not just counting the T-shirts or Medals – ????

]]> By: Jimbo http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-9173 Jimbo Thu, 06 Aug 2009 01:31:04 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-9173 I do ironman triathlons so I can walk round wearing my finishers shirt, not to look good naked cos I'm still a fat bastard, also I enjoy beating skinny people :) I do ironman triathlons so I can walk round wearing my finishers shirt, not to look good naked cos I’m still a fat bastard, also I enjoy beating skinny people :)

]]> By: billy http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-8522 billy Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:32:09 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-8522 BRAGGING RIGHTS BRAGGING RIGHTS

]]> By: Jimmy http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-6333 Jimmy Fri, 19 Jun 2009 20:56:06 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-6333 I do triathlon because I'm vain and I want to look great naked. The reaction people supply when I tell them how much I train is satisfying. Secretly inside I think to myself, "I'm better than you. I have more discipline. I'm a superior human being. You don't have the intestinal fortitude to do what I'm doing and we both know that". It sets me apart from a crowd of overweight, pasty IT geeks. Girls love it. I pull 10x the amount of leg due to triathlon then when I was just an average Joe. I do triathlon because I’m vain and I want to look great naked. The reaction people supply when I tell them how much I train is satisfying. Secretly inside I think to myself, “I’m better than you. I have more discipline. I’m a superior human being. You don’t have the intestinal fortitude to do what I’m doing and we both know that”. It sets me apart from a crowd of overweight, pasty IT geeks. Girls love it. I pull 10x the amount of leg due to triathlon then when I was just an average Joe.

]]> By: Mike http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-6233 Mike Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:24:43 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-6233 Great Article! My mindset from the beginning was always tied to every one of your "irrational" reasons. It was always to look better and be better than everyone else around me. Great Article! My mindset from the beginning was always tied to every one of your “irrational” reasons. It was always to look better and be better than everyone else around me.

]]> By: Anonymous http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-5972 Anonymous Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:13:41 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-5972 I train for triathlons so I do not have time to cheat on my wife. You wanted honesty! I train for triathlons so I do not have time to cheat on my wife. You wanted honesty!

]]> By: Jeff http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-5851 Jeff Sat, 06 Jun 2009 01:18:23 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-5851 You managed to bring up some good thoughts, but your overall delivery left a lot to be desired. You communicated some (but not many) important points, embedded in a writing style that is caustic--a little bit "holier than thou" and demeaning. Instead of passing judgment on many of your students and others who show up on Sundays and work their tails off to do so, if you want people to think about why they do what they do, perhaps you could simply ask the question you wish people to consider, and allow them to come to their own conclusion. Keep the insight coming. Leave the lecture out. You managed to bring up some good thoughts, but your overall delivery left a lot to be desired. You communicated some (but not many) important points, embedded in a writing style that is caustic–a little bit “holier than thou” and demeaning. Instead of passing judgment on many of your students and others who show up on Sundays and work their tails off to do so, if you want people to think about why they do what they do, perhaps you could simply ask the question you wish people to consider, and allow them to come to their own conclusion. Keep the insight coming. Leave the lecture out.

]]> By: Darren Ritch http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-5197 Darren Ritch Thu, 21 May 2009 00:52:32 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-5197 I have two very good reasons why I began training for a triathlon and completed my first super sprint back in April and have a sprint and olympic distance scheduled this year. 1. I was diagnosed a year ago with Prostate Cancer at age 41 and had surgery on June 30th. I was never an athlete other than occasional workouts at the gym, and had a major wakeup call about my health. 2. I found Athletes for a Cure (AFAC) which is a program through the Prostate Cancer Foundation through a friend and volunteered my time and raised money for my cause. I caught the fever to do a triathlon while volunteering at the first annual AFAC Triathlon last September. I thought it would be great to get in shape and use running and triathlons as a way to raise money and create more awareness for prostate cancer in younger men. To date I have help raise over $6k for Athletes for a Cure and will continue training and racing for this cause! Darren Ritch I have two very good reasons why I began training for a triathlon and completed my first super sprint back in April and have a sprint and olympic distance scheduled this year.

1. I was diagnosed a year ago with Prostate Cancer at age 41 and had surgery on June 30th. I was never an athlete other than occasional workouts at the gym, and had a major wakeup call about my health.

2. I found Athletes for a Cure (AFAC) which is a program through the Prostate Cancer Foundation through a friend and volunteered my time and raised money for my cause. I caught the fever to do a triathlon while volunteering at the first annual AFAC Triathlon last September. I thought it would be great to get in shape and use running and triathlons as a way to raise money and create more awareness for prostate cancer in younger men.

To date I have help raise over $6k for Athletes for a Cure and will continue training and racing for this cause!

Darren Ritch

]]> By: Kaleb http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-5173 Kaleb Wed, 20 May 2009 15:07:04 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-5173 1. Why do I do triathlon? It feels good to finish a work out or race knowing that I didn’t quit when it got hard. 2. Why does it fell good? I have quit before the finish, and have been unmotivated enough that I became complacent and started bad habits when I was a firefighter. (one of the larger reasons I left the fire serves) 3a. Why did you quit? I am afraid of failure and at the same time I don’t think I am good enough to succeed. 3.b. Why did you become “unmotivated enough”? If I don’t try then I am not being measured and thus can stay in the middle ground, neither good nor bad. It is easy to sit and have your head full of the right things to do in a given situations but harder to put your self in the situations that well test that knowledge. 4. Why am I, 1. afraid of failure and 2. afraid of being measured? 1. I am afraid of failure because I am better then failure? (weird!) 2. If I succeed, I will have to admit that I am better then failure. 5. I do triathlon because each day I train hard is a day that I chose to not take the easy path, each time I succeed I prove to my self that I have worth and if I have worth I deserve to be proud of my self. Besides the consequences of failing in triathlon are a lot smaller then the consequences of failing in the fire service. 1. Why do I do triathlon? It feels good to finish a work out or
race knowing that I didn’t quit when it got hard.
2. Why does it fell good? I have quit before the finish, and have
been unmotivated enough that I became complacent and
started bad habits when I was a firefighter. (one of the larger
reasons I left the fire serves)
3a. Why did you quit? I am afraid of failure and at the same
time I don’t think I am good enough to succeed.
3.b. Why did you become “unmotivated enough”? If I don’t try
then I am not being measured and thus can stay in the
middle ground, neither good nor bad. It is easy to sit and
have your head full of the right things to do in a given
situations but harder to put your self in the situations that
well test that knowledge.
4. Why am I, 1. afraid of failure and 2. afraid of being
measured?
1. I am afraid of failure because I am better then failure?
(weird!) 2. If I succeed, I will have to admit that I am better
then failure.
5. I do triathlon because each day I train hard is a day that I
chose to not take the easy path, each time I succeed I prove
to my self that I have worth and if I have worth I deserve to
be proud of my self.
Besides the consequences of failing in triathlon are a lot
smaller then the consequences of failing in the fire service.

]]> By: steve http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-5126 steve Tue, 19 May 2009 16:02:59 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-5126 When you put a date on your dream, it becomes a goal. When you aim for the goal, it becomes a challenge. When you beat the challenge, the reward is success. To have success...you need a dream. So basically when I stop dreaming, I'll stop tri-ing; or if I'm physically incapable - which ever comes first. When you put a date on your dream, it becomes a goal.
When you aim for the goal, it becomes a challenge.
When you beat the challenge, the reward is success.
To have success…you need a dream.

So basically when I stop dreaming, I’ll stop tri-ing; or if I’m physically incapable – which ever comes first.

]]> By: Jennifer Hailey http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4966 Jennifer Hailey Sat, 16 May 2009 13:23:37 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4966 Ben, I have to tell you I love your website and really admire you. I read it a lot and have found a lot of really helpful info! I do triathlons for three reason... 1. When I was a kid my neighbors brother was did that cross country bike race (and won it several times) and ran Ironman, I thougth it was cool and felt I should do it some tris some day. 2. I have a history of a fairly significant eating disorder and the triathlons give me an excuse to eat healthy, keep my weight down, exercise a lot and not be questioned. 3. My parents hate it. Hope that was candid enough for you! Keep up the most excellent work!!! Ben,
I have to tell you I love your website and really admire you. I read it a lot and have found a lot of really helpful info!
I do triathlons for three reason…
1. When I was a kid my neighbors brother was did that cross country bike race (and won it several times) and ran Ironman, I thougth it was cool and felt I should do it some tris some day.
2. I have a history of a fairly significant eating disorder and the triathlons give me an excuse to eat healthy, keep my weight down, exercise a lot and not be questioned.
3. My parents hate it.
Hope that was candid enough for you! Keep up the most excellent work!!!

]]> By: J9 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4937 J9 Sat, 16 May 2009 01:50:50 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4937 It's all about control for me. In triathlon, I see the direct consequences of my decisions and my actions (or inactions). When I went from one swim workout a week to two, my swim times improved. When I do hill repeats on the bike, my climbing improves. When I do longer long runs, my endurance improves. In the three years I've been doing tri's, my time in the same race has improved every year, and I know it's because I have trained harder every year. I did that. I improved my time. I planned my training, I did my training, I got the results. I'm in control. It’s all about control for me. In triathlon, I see the direct consequences of my decisions and my actions (or inactions). When I went from one swim workout a week to two, my swim times improved. When I do hill repeats on the bike, my climbing improves. When I do longer long runs, my endurance improves. In the three years I’ve been doing tri’s, my time in the same race has improved every year, and I know it’s because I have trained harder every year. I did that. I improved my time. I planned my training, I did my training, I got the results. I’m in control.

]]> By: Jessica R. http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4861 Jessica R. Thu, 14 May 2009 17:05:55 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4861 I don't want my surgeon husband getting all the fulfillment. And, I want to show my kids I can do cool stuff too :) I don’t want my surgeon husband getting all the fulfillment. And, I want to show my kids I can do cool stuff too :)

]]> By: InEugene http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4857 InEugene Thu, 14 May 2009 16:14:17 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4857 Pure vanity. I like doing things that people respond to with lines like "Are you F!@#ing nuts?" Well, yes, I probably am. My 21 yr old son alleges, as does my wife, that it's my way of abusing my body. They're probably on to something there. I'm vainly trying to keep up with two athletic adult children. Finally, it's the perfect sport for someone who's athletically ADD, but a master at none. This is actually my first triathlon season. I've done ultras and marathons in the past and have mountain biked for the past ten years. My coach has pressed me to do triathlons for a few years, and I ran out of excuses. Pure vanity. I like doing things that people respond to with lines like “Are you F!@#ing nuts?” Well, yes, I probably am. My 21 yr old son alleges, as does my wife, that it’s my way of abusing my body. They’re probably on to something there. I’m vainly trying to keep up with two athletic adult children. Finally, it’s the perfect sport for someone who’s athletically ADD, but a master at none. This is actually my first triathlon season. I’ve done ultras and marathons in the past and have mountain biked for the past ten years. My coach has pressed me to do triathlons for a few years, and I ran out of excuses.

]]> By: Richard Cook http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4831 Richard Cook Thu, 14 May 2009 03:40:59 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4831 I am a 62 year old (25 year couch-bumb) who will be retiring this June from 30+ years of teaching Special Education Students. Did my first Tri (Wildflower=03) and swore that my wife should shoot me if I was to even suggest doing another one. Since then I have done about 2-3 a year and am planning on doing the Vineman Ironman on August 1, 2009 in Napa, California. Why: In my younger days I was better than most but not as good as the best in Track (440). I tried boxing (500% 1-1), Wrestling (20 bouts never won one but lost more on points than pins. I am training for the Ironman for the simple reason to find out what I am really made of. I am looking to break 15.5 hours. I am working very hard at training and reading all about nutrition, training, etc. I am looking forward to swimming, biking and running and kind of watch myself as I compete. I was able to do this when I was in Track (44) and was in the "zone). I can say that I am a bit concerned but am looking forward to that day. It may hurt but it will be something that I can smile about for the rest of my life and I am looking forward to the that special day. Richard Cook/Clovis, California I am a 62 year old (25 year couch-bumb) who will be retiring this June from 30+ years of teaching Special Education Students. Did my first Tri (Wildflower=03) and swore that my wife should shoot me if I was to even suggest doing another one. Since then I have done about 2-3 a year and am planning on doing the Vineman Ironman on August 1, 2009 in Napa, California.
Why: In my younger days I was better than most but not as good as the best in Track (440). I tried boxing (500% 1-1), Wrestling (20 bouts never won one but lost more on points than pins. I am training for the Ironman for the simple reason to find out what I am really made of. I am looking to break 15.5 hours. I am working very hard at training and reading all about nutrition, training, etc. I am looking forward to swimming, biking and running and kind of watch myself as I compete. I was able to do this when I was in Track (44) and was in the “zone).

I can say that I am a bit concerned but am looking forward to that day. It may hurt but it will be something that I can smile about for the rest of my life and I am looking forward to the that special day.
Richard Cook/Clovis, California

]]> By: Terry http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4803 Terry Wed, 13 May 2009 16:25:31 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4803 I fall right into the group that wants to better each and everytime. I don't train nearly as much as I should and still manage to get better. Riding the bike for 3-4 hours at a time becasue I like it... you bet your ass I do. A deep emotional reason is that after my Mother passed away from a 2 year battle with lung cancer I made a promise to myself to never give up on something just because its getting hard. If she can fight through that and hang on as long as she did I can keep going with healthy lungs. First time I've shared that, thanks for listening. I fall right into the group that wants to better each and everytime. I don’t train nearly as much as I should and still manage to get better.
Riding the bike for 3-4 hours at a time becasue I like it… you bet your ass I do.
A deep emotional reason is that after my Mother passed away from a 2 year battle with lung cancer I made a promise to myself to never give up on something just because its getting hard. If she can fight through that and hang on as long as she did I can keep going with healthy lungs.
First time I’ve shared that, thanks for listening.

]]> By: Jeff http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4797 Jeff Wed, 13 May 2009 13:44:51 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4797 Great article Ben! Great article. You took the vanity that surrounds most me-against-myself sports and shoved it right back in the faces of those who buy into the "cookie cutter" answers. As a journalist and an athlete, I am inspired by your honesty. Here's a bit of honesty from me. I do tris because I love my girlfriend. When we go to parties, I want her to be able to show me off if she chooses to. I want other women to envy her. I know it boosts her ego if they talk about her man and that, in turn, boosts mine. It is an ego thing. There is no better motivational tool for me than seeing the woman I love proud and confident. Shallow? Maybe. True? Absolutely. Great article Ben! Great article. You took the vanity that surrounds most me-against-myself sports and shoved it right back in the faces of those who buy into the “cookie cutter” answers. As a journalist and an athlete, I am inspired by your honesty. Here’s a bit of honesty from me. I do tris because I love my girlfriend. When we go to parties, I want her to be able to show me off if she chooses to. I want other women to envy her. I know it boosts her ego if they talk about her man and that, in turn, boosts mine. It is an ego thing. There is no better motivational tool for me than seeing the woman I love proud and confident. Shallow? Maybe. True? Absolutely.

]]> By: Ben Greenfield http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4773 Ben Greenfield Wed, 13 May 2009 03:08:09 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4773 Nice essay Alex. That's really powerful. Next week, on Everymantri, we're going to discuss some of these answers. I'm also going to talk about them in Podcast Episode #44... Ben Nice essay Alex. That’s really powerful. Next week, on Everymantri, we’re going to discuss some of these answers.

I’m also going to talk about them in Podcast Episode #44…

Ben

]]> By: Alex http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4760 Alex Tue, 12 May 2009 22:06:44 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4760 Great issue to explore. Years ago I found a short essay (author unknown) that goes to the heart of why so many of us continue to do triathlons to this day. For sake of brevity I don't want to reproduce it here so go to this link to check it out: http://activehealthy.blogspot.com/2009/05/why-do-people-do-triathlons.html Great issue to explore. Years ago I found a short essay (author unknown) that goes to the heart of why so many of us continue to do triathlons to this day. For sake of brevity I don’t want to reproduce it here so go to this link to check it out:

http://activehealthy.blogspot.com/2009/05/why-do-people-do-triathlons.html

]]> By: Hazel http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4758 Hazel Tue, 12 May 2009 21:33:30 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4758 My irrational motivators? All of the above! I'm 73, and I ran my first tri - a short-short sprint in my 40s. I was hooked immediately. It was fun; it was something only the guys did; and I was way older than anybody else in the race. Got 3rd place overall. There has always been one very rational reason for running and tri-ing, though: blood pressure. I was determined not to take pills, so I pushed myself ever harder and harder. Finally, I've had to give in to old age and take pills. But I keep a picture of Sister Madonna Buder in my wallet to remind me that 73 ain't OLD!!! My irrational motivators? All of the above! I’m 73, and I ran my first tri – a short-short sprint in my 40s. I was hooked immediately. It was fun; it was something only the guys did; and I was way older than anybody else in the race. Got 3rd place overall.

There has always been one very rational reason for running and tri-ing, though: blood pressure. I was determined not to take pills, so I pushed myself ever harder and harder. Finally, I’ve had to give in to old age and take pills.

But I keep a picture of Sister Madonna Buder in my wallet to remind me that 73 ain’t OLD!!!

]]> By: Fe-lady http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4757 Fe-lady Tue, 12 May 2009 21:32:12 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4757 Please excuse the typos above... Please excuse the typos above…

]]> By: Fe-lady http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4755 Fe-lady Tue, 12 May 2009 21:30:55 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4755 OK- NONE (ok a few) of those comments were one sentence! My reasons for triathlon training and racing are varied and have changed throughout the 27 years I have participated. In the early 80s it was strictly for social contact and to "awe" people as not many women were doing tris then. In the mid-80s when I was hitting my stride, it was strictly for hardware and going for time and place-so I guess this would be recognition by peers. After I becamse a mom and was working full time it was strictly to run (bike or swim) away-to have time for myself and to prove to by then husband that I was talented...maybe even more than he was, because he tried to sabotage my training and racing. Lately, as I climb away from my mid-50s it's for feeling younger, looking younger, and seeing places (with my current husband) that we never would if we weren't in swimming/cycling or running shape. I am not plagued with health problems or menopausal symptoms, as many of my peers my age are. I still can shop in the Jr. dept. and am not afraid to race in a bathing suit for sprints. I still stand by the fact that when I exercise in the a.m. before work I am calmer and more focused with the kids I work with at school, and am more creative with my approach to my special education students. I sleep better at night and love the feeling of exhaustion after a great run/swim or ride, so I guess there is a physical addiction there also. I love feeling fluid and fast and flexible. I also love to beat people younger than I am (especially men). The real reason...to stay alive as long as I can and not be alone when I do. OK- NONE (ok a few) of those comments were one sentence!
My reasons for triathlon training and racing are varied and have changed throughout the 27 years I have participated.

In the early 80s it was strictly for social contact and to “awe” people as not many women were doing tris then.

In the mid-80s when I was hitting my stride, it was strictly for hardware and going for time and place-so I guess this would be recognition by peers.

After I becamse a mom and was working full time it was strictly to run (bike or swim) away-to have time for myself and to prove to by then husband that I was talented…maybe even more than he was, because he tried to sabotage my training and racing.

Lately, as I climb away from my mid-50s it’s for feeling younger, looking younger, and seeing places (with my current husband) that we never would if we weren’t in swimming/cycling or running shape. I am not plagued with health problems or menopausal symptoms, as many of my peers my age are. I still can shop in the Jr. dept. and am not afraid to race in a bathing suit for sprints. I still stand by the fact that when I exercise in the a.m. before work I am calmer and more focused with the kids I work with at school, and am more creative with my approach to my special education students. I sleep better at night and love the feeling of exhaustion after a great run/swim or ride, so I guess there is a physical addiction there also. I love feeling fluid and fast and flexible.
I also love to beat people younger than I am (especially men).
The real reason…to stay alive as long as I can and not be alone when I do.

]]> By: Terri http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4750 Terri Tue, 12 May 2009 19:20:19 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4750 Watch this documentary and you'll understand as we all do... p.s. I am the redhead! http://gallery.me.com/infretta#100030 Watch this documentary and you’ll understand as we all do…
p.s. I am the redhead!

http://gallery.me.com/infretta#100030

]]> By: Vernon Montoya http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4749 Vernon Montoya Tue, 12 May 2009 19:20:11 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4749 First of all, I am competitive. I used to be a competitive swimmer, and a pretty good road racer. I love to pass others on the race course and finish well in my age group. I know I will never be an elite, oh well. Second, I have a strong family history of heart disease. My father had a heart attack at age 57. I exercise furiously to lessen my chances of heart disease. Third, triathlon allows me to eat more of the foods that I like. Fourth, triathlon allows me to keep my body looking good. It also lets me admire attractive, fit females (I know that was not PC, but you asked me to be honest!) First of all, I am competitive. I used to be a competitive swimmer, and a pretty good road racer. I love to pass others on the race course and finish well in my age group. I know I will never be an elite, oh well.

Second, I have a strong family history of heart disease. My father had a heart attack at age 57. I exercise furiously to lessen my chances of heart disease.

Third, triathlon allows me to eat more of the foods that I like.

Fourth, triathlon allows me to keep my body looking good. It also lets me admire attractive, fit females (I know that was not PC, but you asked me to be honest!)

]]> By: Tom http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/05/why/#comment-4747 Tom Tue, 12 May 2009 19:09:25 +0000 http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/?p=846#comment-4747 In my case, you are 100% right. I do triathlon/running/ironman to prove that I am a real athlete, that I am better than the average guy, to test how far and fast I can go, to see how much I can do, to get a IM Tattoo, to wear IM clothes in public so people ask if I really did one, so I can drink and eat like crap and not get fat, and most of all to hope that my kids are proud of me for doing great things in my life. In my case, you are 100% right. I do triathlon/running/ironman to prove that I am a real athlete, that I am better than the average guy, to test how far and fast I can go, to see how much I can do, to get a IM Tattoo, to wear IM clothes in public so people ask if I really did one, so I can drink and eat like crap and not get fat, and most of all to hope that my kids are proud of me for doing great things in my life.

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