All posts tagged: competition

Later this week I’ll compete in an ultra marathon, one of my most challenging events yet to date. As the race approaches, it has gotten me thinking about why I like to compete and why I think it’s beneficial for others to do so – whether it’s a small local event or something much tougher. Today I’ll highlight 6 reasons you should consider signing up for something in the future.

1. Everyone needs a goal. Having a goal is good but having an actual date on the calendar you need to be ready for is even better because it will keep you from slacking.

About a year ago after not running longer than 3 miles or competing in any races for 2 years I went on a 7 mile trail run. Within 3 days of that run I had signed up for 3 races including a 24 hour event. I realized on that run how badly I missed having a goal to shoot for.

2. Begin down a healthier path. Once you sign up for an event you’ll notice you’re more willing to make healthier changes. These may include changing how you eat and drink, how you think, ridding yourself of bad habits, committing to getting out of pain or any number of other things. Many of the most profound changes start with a simple catalyst.

I’ve been studying exercise, nutrition and better ways to care for the human body for a long time and some of the most valuable information I’ve obtained came while preparing for an event.

3. Raises training intensity. Whether you’re looking to shed some pounds or are an Olympic hopeful, having something to train for will instantly make your workouts more intense and beneficial.

I’ve had many days where I only feel like running or training for a short time and want to call it an early day. However, with an event looming I always find the will to keep going because every workout seems to matter more.

4. Inspire others. Everyday people don’t often think of themselves as inspirational however it’s likely that many of your friends, family and co-workers will identify more with you than anyone else. Enter an event and I promise you that you’ll motivate someone else to do the same.

A big inspiration for me is seeing how excited my children get when I finish an event and the questions they ask me about it. Setting an example for them is important to me.

5. Stretch your comfort zone. Competing in a strenuous event (that term is relative to the individual) forces you to face adversity both mentally and physically. Successfully dealing with that adversity during a race will carry over into your everyday life and make you more adept at handling challenges.

Being cold, tired and uncomfortable in my races has made me more comfortable whenever I encounter obstacles in my personal or business life which has made a tremendous difference for me.

6. Sense of accomplishment. Confidence is king. One thing that can quickly build confidence is accomplishing a goal. Signing up for a race or event (especially one out of your comfort zone) and then completing it will create confidence and momentum in other aspects of your life.

Calling upon recent athletic successes continues to make me confident and leads me to achieve loftier goals in my personal and business endeavors.

Dr. Kenney has won multiple awards for “Best Chiropractor” and specializes in motivating and helping patients achieve their goals of better health and pain relief. For more information please visit www.NewBodyChiro.com, find us on Facebook (New Body Chiropractic & Wellness Center) or call (303) 347-9906.