Well, the triathlon season is certainly not over, but my prospects for completing a tri this summer are not good -- I injured my shoulder and haven't been able to swim. However, a duathlon is taking place right here in my home town, so what's to stop me?

A duathlon consists of running and biking and running again. The one I'm considering consists of a two-mile run, a 10-mile bike, followed by one more two-mile run. What's great about this is that, like a sprint triathlon, I can complete each of these legs on their own with ease, but when it's all put together, it becomes a fun challenge.

I've said it before and I'll say it again -- races like these are great ways to get yourself motivated to train. Even if you don't have an event near you, set a date, maybe with some friends, to complete two or three events. You can do this at your gym, from your home, or at a nearby park. It's up to you!