Maybe it's my age (41), but I've recently lost all motivation to get out and do anything, beyond 5 a side football.
Got a new road bike at the beginning of the year and beyond a lunchtime blat I've not used it much and I haven't really used my MTB. I used to go running but can't force myself out the door and if I do can only last 3 miles. The motivation just isn't there. I've got mates locally but none that bike to any degree. I used to enter races (short, 24hrs, etc) and then not enjoy them because I couldn't do as well as I wanted. I feel if I let this continue I'll be the fat old man that I despise. Bit early for a mid-life crisis and I can't afford to buy my way out of lethargy by getting new stuff as an excuse.

Anyone been in the same boat?
Do I need a trainer, a focus or just a kick up the arse?

i know what you mean grueller.my fitness has gone as well as my motivation.will be interested in what advice people give i.e mtfu e.t.c.

I've found that trying something new is a good way to get your motivation back. Last year I swam a lot (hadn't done it for years). This year I've being going to do circuit training at a boxing gym. Once I get into something new I find my motivation for riding and everything else increases as I start to feel fitter.

Ohh nearly forgot MTFU

If you only biked to stop yourself getting fat no wonder. It's supposed to be intrinsically enjoyable, not a means to an end! Find some activity you really like instead 🙂

Guess we are all a bit different and what once for someone doesn't always work for someone else.
I set some goals that I have a chance of achieving if I work hard and then arrange things accordingly.
Goals will be around sociable riding/MTB trips away/MTB races and more recently I want to do some road races in 2010. I keep a log of what I've done and try to ride with other people as much as possible(not only more fun but a good gauge of how things are progressing)A bit older than you but works for me

not age at all, Im 40 and still ride, run, train four times a week plus cycle to work everyday. I do it 'cause I love it… and the added bonus that im fit healthy and young for my age. Im doing much more running now than I have for a long time and am thoroughly enjoying the events side of things.

As above, try something new for a bit… swimming, circuit training ?

BMF is good… these guys will get you motivated… I did it throughout 2006… great fun. Lots of short sprints, press ups, sit ups and circuit training type stuff all combined into relay games, fun competition, motivation & humour.

British Military Fitness

Kev

I used to like riding my bike, it wasn't a means to an end, just a laugh. Being fitter was a bonus. I do karate with my son, but that's a struggle as well. It's only setting him an example that gets me out. I did swimming late last year and the early part of this year, but have twatted my shoulder up so it hurts to do some strokes. Will I get it looked at? Probably not. It's the general attitude to any physical effort. The football thing is more of a social thing with running.

I suppose I'm seeking the age-old answer that is different for everyone. Will I MTFU? Maybe
Suggest events next year that could give me a target? Solo mayhem?

grueller – It's obvious! Join the LVRC and do some vet road races. They really are great. I used to do loads of them. I recommend them to you.

SB

I hear gardening is quite good for elderly people who want to remain mobile.

Gardening! I'd rather drill nails down my japs eye.
It's the motivation. Maybe I must look within in a grasshopper style.

Wax on. wax off