In these torpid days of summer, the extent of your heavy lifting might amount to hoisting a frosty mug and the remote control while watching the Summer Olympics. This month gives the couch potatoes of the world the chance to live vicariously though the drama, courage and pathos of impossibly talented, disciplined athletes.

If watching the Olympics doesn’t stir up your emotions and leave you feeling motivated to challenge yourself, you might have ice water running through your veins. So warm up your DVR and prepare to take some inspiration from the world’s best athletes: It’s all about discipline, focus and extra effort. In this economy, there is no better time to step up your game and think like a champion.