Don’t Just Work Out. Train for Something.
Why Signing Up for an Event Boosts Your Motivation and Results
Ever feel like your workouts are just… happening? You show up, move, sweat, leave. It’s consistent—but maybe it feels like something’s missing.
Here’s a game-changer: train for something.
At the end of July I’m competing in a big CrossFit competition with Marty as my teammate. I’m registered for two more competitions in September and October. But, that’s what I love to do. It’s fun for me. But more than that, it gave my training a purpose. Even with regular workouts, having these event on the calendar helps keep me locked in. It wasn’t just about showing up to the gym; it was about preparing for something bigger.
Yours doesn’t have to be a CrossFit competition. It can be ANYTHING! But guess what… regularly training with our CrossFit programming is going to enhance and improve any other fitness event or challenge that you sign up for. Running a half marathon? Build up that mileage over time, but take it from Shannon, training here at ECF multiple days a week and running on the weekends still allowed her to PR her time by 20 minutes!
Most People Don’t Necessarily Need More Motivation—They Need a Target
You don’t need to grind harder. You just need something to aim for.
Whether it’s a 5K, a local fitness competition, a big hike, or a muddy obstacle course—putting a date on the calendar changes everything. Suddenly, your workouts aren’t just routines. They’re part of a plan, and our coaches are here to help and support you.
Goals Are Good—But Events Are Better
Setting goals like “get stronger” or “lose weight” is great. But those goals can feel vague or distant. A set date on the calendar? That’s real.
It shifts your mindset from “I should work out” to “I need to be ready.”
You’re no longer exercising—you’re training. You’re building toward something.
Why It Works
Training for something creates structure, focus, and a little urgency. Here’s what usually happens:
You start showing up more consistently
Your nutrition habits improve (even just a bit)
You actually prioritize recovery and sleep
You don’t skip the little things that matter
It’s not just about fitness. It’s mental, too. You’re preparing to perform—and that changes how you show up every day.
The Power of Momentum
You don’t have to be an elite athlete to sign up for something. You just need a reason to move.
Events give you:
A short-term goal (6–12 weeks is ideal)
A little pressure (in a good way)
A chance to invite others on the journey with you—friends, coaches, your gym fam
And they help you reclaim that identity: you’re someone who trains with purpose.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Here are a few ideas:
Sign up for a 5 or 10K or fun run, a half marathon even!
Register for a local CrossFit comp… ECF’s Wodtoberfest!
Plan a hike with some elevation and a solid playlist
Do a ruck with friends
Tackle a rowing or swim distance challenge
Try a big event like HYROX, Spartan, or Tough Mudder
Even better—do it with your crew. Training with others builds accountability and makes it more fun.
Final Thoughts: Just Commit
You don’t need to “feel ready.” You just need to say yes.
Pick something. Put it on your calendar. Tell someone.
That small decision can shift your mindset, improve your training, clean up your habits, and fire up your confidence.
And when you cross that finish line—whatever it looks like—you’ll feel it. Pride. Strength. Momentum.
So, what’s your next event? Let us know—we’d love to cheer you on and help you train for it.