fitness by proxy

Is there a better way to exercise than watching others struggle from the comfort of one's couch. Even ridiculous programs like "wicked fit" provide that satisfying feel of imminent good intentions. Nothing beats the sweat and tears of others to make one feel capable of anything.

Where I road onto the rail and off my bike

So capable did I feel that I hopped on my bike (after putting on the multiple layers and gloves etc... needed for an autumn ride in Boston. I should've realized that when my camelback leaked all over my own back that the ride was going to be a difficult one. Still the fates will not be denied and after screwing the cap on properly and hoping that the ride would dry me out I decided to take a local ride in the city. This is a good thing to do as our city is not unattractive. Indeed I went through many of the so called troubled neighbourhoods and thought to myself that despite stabbings and other crime related issues they are actually pretty safe on the whole and the city does a good job keeping them clean and looking pretty decent. I seemed not to have the energy and drive that I was possessed with while watching the exercisers on TV. a bit troubling but my biggest problem came when traversing The Heath St. tram line. i managed to ride my front wheel straight into the track groove and over I went. Not surprisingly, having landed on them, my hands are still quite sore 2 hours later BUT; thanks to the padded bike gloves and the other winter gear, my skin stayed intact. After thanking observers who offered to help after seeing my spill (and embarrassment),  I hirpled to the side of the road, fixed my chain and spent the rest of the ride wondering if the front wheel was out of alignment. I used all the "eye of faith" I could engender to say NO for I cannot afford a new wheel but there is no doubt, the ride back was not right, maybe it was the after effects of the fall on me - hope so, else I will be riding a wobbly wheeled bike for some time.
Anyways, this tells me to get my inspiration to exercise from serious programs and not the one I was watching - "wicked fit". no wonder I was not a serious participant in the game of athleticism today. hmm, should a man even own up to watching this program, even if it is set in the town he lives in.