MCF8329EVM: Improving startup under load

I have the EVM driving a motor attached to an electromagnetic brake for testing load conditions. When the motor is up to speed it easily handles the load even with the brake at it's maximum setting, but it has trouble starting up with even a small amount of load applied. I've tried all the different startup methods and played with the parameters but have not been successful. Could someone form TI provide some tips on the recommended path for this scenario?