Vrinda's and Joe Briefcase's lighthearted conversation about Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie got me thinking...what images motivate us as we work out? what images of fitness represent the endpoints we seek to meet? Who are our fitness-related role models?

To get the conversational ball rolling, I like the cycling graphic I use here and admire Lance Armstrong's willingness to test his physical limits.

Separately, I'll ask Maxwell about the feasability of establishing an image gallery.

NYCinephile,

I like this thread.

The Fitness Godess: URL
I used to be what we call over at another forum a vidiot. The only way I knew to work out was by popping in a fitness DVD. After years of thinking I was exercising at a fairly advanced level, I discovered Cathe. Boy, did I learn I was out-of-shape! She is the only fitness instructor who can make working very,very hard attainable as well as fun. She was one of the first who created "serious" weight training videos for women. After working with Cathe I picked up the confidence to work out "on my own" at a gym. From being a cardio addict who did a spot of "body toning" style weightless resistance training, I learnt a well-rounded cross training routine from Cathe. I exercise almost always at a gym now, but I still love Cathe. She is also a warm, lovely person who has created a forum at her site where she responds directly to queries. I still buy her workouts to learn routines.

Cardio Coach: At my other forum, he was once referred to as "his hotness" He has a voice that was especially created for motivation. From the pics of him at his site, I imagine him spurring me on wearing his trademark baseball cap, when I work out "with him". I can never quit mid way through a Cardio Coach workout. URL

Despite the Brad and Angelina thread, I have never been motivated by the image of a celebrity. Not even as a teenager. Except Jackie Chan. When I kick box, I am Jackie Chan.

Vrinda