Triathlon and training = Obsessive? (Page 3)

That's a bit of an assumption, don't you think?

I think a lot of us assume that our "non-athletic" friends are just jealous of how "awesome" we all are, but really, most of it comes down to the fact that they're simply not interested in triathlon. I have plenty of friends who think triathlon and running are "crazy", but they still eat well, take care of themselves, exercise regularly, etc - they just don't do triathlons. Doing cardio-kickboxing and lifting weights will still keep you fit and healthy. I think most triathletes are quick to judge those that don't do the stuff we do, as if triathlon were the only way to keep ourselves healthy happy. What about a FB friend who's an accomplished musican posting "Had fantastic rehearsal and laid down some sweet tracks" or "got second violin with _____ orchestra" - would you take as much interest in those goals and accomplishments as you expect non-athletes to take in yours? Doubtful. Would some of you perhaps be SLIGHTLY jealous because they're making something happen for them that you didn't have the talent for? I'd bet possibly so... (sorry, I used a music example because it's what I know, but you get the idea - fill it in with horseback riding or publishing a novel or whatever else you want)

Thing is, triathlon is not the only interest worth having. It's not the only thing that makes us happy, keeps us healthy, validates us as human beings. I'm quite sure that there are people out there who find great joy in coaching youth sports, keep themselves healthy by not smoking or drinking, do something active every single day, even if that's riding a stationary bike for an hour. My mom walks 4 miles every day. She's not a triathlete. Does that make her "lazy" and "unmotivated" as everyone has accused those who don't do triathlons of being? That's just an example, but you get my point. Perhaps triathlon just doesn't interest some people. Perhaps they prefer to spend their time, energy and motivation doing something else. Not everyone who isn't a triathlete is a lazy, fat slob. Sure there are lots of lazy fat slobs in this world - I know for a fact that there are former lazy, fat slobs on here. But I don't think the most worthy path to getting out of that state is to become someone who does nothing but eat/sleep/breathe/dream/poop triathlon.

If you want friends who will coo and awe over your athletic achievements, ditch your non-triathlete friends and hang out solely with triathletes. Personally, I wouldn't want such a one-sided lifestyle, but if that makes you happy, then cool. Just keep in mind that not everyone shares your enthusiasms and that's actually okay. There are more things in life to enjoy - like Krispy Kremes

Take this with a grain of salt, flame me or whatever.