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Mar 2011  |  By Christy Coughlin  |  Comments

Race Ya!

Remember those exciting games of kickball we played as kids? Each team played to win.

Time flew, and then we were exhausted, satisfied and anxious for a rematch. While guys generally keep their competitive juices flowing throughout life, middle-aged women often avoid competition. Healthy competition yields many benefits for women: boosting self-confidence, encouraging better workouts, elevating performance, and getting play back into your routine.

Women who compete in sports develop strong self-confidence. Two years ago I entered a Master’s swim meet. I was incredibly nervous, until the gun went off, I dove in and  my preparations went to work. My daughters awarded me a “life chip” (from the game of Life) for taking the plunge. Signing up for an event, setting goals, training and doing your best allows you to focus on your physical self. The sense of accomplishment—award or not—is written on the face of every woman who crosses the finish line.

Competition encourages better workouts. My friend Cheryl played tennis recreationally for years. She loved the tough workout her drill provided but was ready for a greater challenge. She joined her club’s league, and from that point on, it was clear she was a competitor. With the goal of winning in mind, her practices took on new meaning, and her workouts were more focused and intense.

Competition elevates performance. Several times a year, I challenge the ladies I coach to run a fast mile. They complain about how slow they are, until I say, “GO!” They dash from the start line, feed off each other’s energy, race the quarters and finish with fast times, tired but elated. Inevitably they run faster than they thought possible, trying to catch the lady up ahead, or beat the friend breathing down their neck.  

Competition reminds us of childhood games when the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat were our motivation. Make it your personal goal in 2011 to get healthy competition back into your life. Challenge your sister, neighbor or friend to a duel in the local triathlon or 5K. No matter the outcome, you’ll hug and congratulate each other once you cross the finish line. My guess is that you will have another competition on the calendar before the day’s end.

The next time you are out for a jog with a friend, look over and say “race ya!” As you try your best to win, your confidence will soar, your legs will work harder, you will run faster, and, I guarantee, feel as euphoric as you did when you kicked the long fly ball.