Hi, I am an adamant lifter, I've lost lots of weight. I used to do a lot of cardio, but I usually lift heavy weights now.

I have a hard time doing cardio - not that its hard, but just because I don't feel like it. I jumped on the bike today after my back/tri workout, and I stayed on it for 5 minutes, then left the gym. I know when you lift, then do some cardio, you're using the fat stored up.

But I kind of need some more motivation - what do you guys do when you have to do cardio (for those that hate it, but still do it anyways)??

I always listen to my mp3 player, which ends up making cardio my favorite part (though without it, I hate doing cardio). Certain songs just really get me going.

Like Pat said, my MP3 player is a lifesaver when it comes to cardio. Additionally, consider doing HIIT, which takes you about 20 mins. So for one thing it's short and there's a smaller risk that you'll become bored. I also find that if I'm doing intervals, I concentrate on my watch and on my running (or whatever you do for cardio) more than I would if I were just pounding along steadily without having to pay attention to time. So that reduces the risk of boredom as well. Combine those three things (music, short but intense cardio, intervals) and it might help you with your motivation.

I enjoy running, and even though I'm not good at it - I still try to run. I can run about 2 miles (8 times around a standard track) before I start to power walk. Then I usually continue to walk a few miles more. Is that just as good as doing LISS on a bike?

Thumbs up for the MP3 player! But I have to admit I do enjoy cardio to start with.

Video iPod + Netflix + Computer with DVD ROM and 10+ gigs free on the drive = Unlimited hours of video to watch while doing cardio.

Music and the sheer fact that with every pedal stroke or step you are burning fat thats been stored in your body for years!

Getting every ounce closer to your perfect cut!

That is true motivation!

Audio Books :tu:

My motivation? Two words: Triathlon Babes

But I kind of need some more motivation - what do you guys do when you have to do cardio (for those that hate it, but still do it anyways)??

When I do lower intensity cardio, I either read or watch TV. However, since that's not always an option, I don't do long, low intensity cardio often because it's too painfully boring otherwise.

I just do 16-20 minute HIIT workouts and the time flies by. Since I'm only walking for at most, a minute or so at a time, and the sprints go by so fast, the workouts are over with real fast (in my head).

I'm heavily into long distance running but I couldn't dream of going on a treadmill without some good tunes to run to. Being too cheap to buy an mp3 player, I just use an old cassette player. The sound quality's not so hot but it does the job :)

I also like to remind myself why I'm running, and try to imagine I'm running a race, heading towards the finish tape. For lower intensity bike work it helps to bring a book or a magazine.