Exercise nuts..

I like to work out. I go to the gym frequently. Not because I am some big muscle guy, but I enjoy the exercise. After a long day, it makes me feel better.

What makes me feel even better is seeing someone at the gym really getting into his or her workout. The dedication exhibited by some of the fervent athletes at my local 24 Hour Fitness leaves me in awe.

For example, take the lady next to me on the cross-trainer last week. She had a steady pace of 30 RPMs, a heart-rate of about 60 and had burned 70 calories in about 20 minutes. All while talking on her phone ("Oh, I'm just working out"). That my friends, is heart and determination. That is the good ol' American spirit on display.

This morning, I saw another example of athleticism at it's finest. It was almost like watching the old Wide World of Sports show on ABC. This gal was jogging in the bike lane (against traffic) all the while managing to balance her cell phone againt her right ear. She was so committed, that she managed to close that big business deal or buy that hot stock all the while getting in her daily .5 mile jog.

No wonder Olympic ratings are down. Why would I watch that stuff when I can see some of the finest athletes in the world all within a few miles of my home.