In previous years, I'd used upcoming triathlon events as my motivation for working out, keeping up with running, strength training, swimming, etc. I'd been hoping after last year's races that this year I'd be able to really "compete" - that is, that I'd have better split times for each event (my skills in running and swiming have gotten better) and, of even greater impact, that I'd have a "legit" racing bike to use and train on.

I cannot remotely justify the purchase of even a mid-range bike (approx. $1500 range) this year as we are really getting crowded out of our little house and hope to put on an addition perhaps as early as this summer - or even move to a location dictated by the results of the current job search. In my heart, I'd really rather put every penny saved toward opening up some space here and improving upon the space/furnishings we have, including our "outdoor area". (Last year we lost an Elm tree and thus have a big crater in the middle of the front yard that really needs some landscaping help.)

Knowing in my mind that the bike thang wasn't gonna happen. I have lost momentum in getting on my bike and indoor trainer. I've been opting for more "general" workouts, like pilates, ashtanga yoga (power yoga), and hope to also take a deep-water aqua-aerobics class that starts at the end of March. But what would serve as my carrot-on-the-stick?

I just happened to check out Self magazine's website last week and found that the annual Self Challenge just started, so I signed up to do it and keep an online log of my workouts. I am really excited about this as I've always kept a workout log/journal of some sort for the past 3-4 years. But this is even better as with each log entry, I get a chance to win a "prize of the day" - usually some sort of frilly bath product or similar.

Its not to late to sign up - and you can either follow the "prescribed" workouts or choose from a list of "general excercises" for both cardio and strength training. 

In just one week I've appreciably stepped-up my total workout minutes and intensity, as well as added more diversity to my routines. I'd recommend this plan to anyone - especially since it's been helping beat these late-winter blues.