How To Stay Motivated With Running

Over years I’ve heard many non-runners say that running is boring, exhausting, and sometimes painful. I don’t blame them, I use to feel that way as well. When I was younger, I could never understand why my father and brother enjoyed it so much. They would always go for runs or enter local races just for fun. Meanwhile, I tried to avoid it as much as possible, especially during gym class. Who knew that more than 20 years later, I would enjoy running along with millions of others. However, as with many fitness activities, it can be difficult to sustain motivation over time.

Because it is primarily a solitary activity, running sometimes CAN be boring, exhausting and painful. Some runners (newcomers and veterans alike) declare that it can be difficult sometimes to stay motivated on a regular basis. This loss of motivation is triggered by many things, including boredom, muscle pains, and most of all, lack of time. In many instances, it starts out slow (skipping a run or two) and without your knowing it, gradually moves to a point where you notice you are not running regularly anymore. So what are some tips to keep you on track?

Goals
One of the better ways to fight loss of motivation is to set realistic goals. One of the more common goals to stay motivated is simply to complete a race.  Choosing your race, training for it, and finally competing in it can be a great way to keep your motivation on high. Your selection should depend on your personal goals.

• If motivation is your only goal, perhaps choosing to compete in those periodic short races is the best option.

• Of course, you can always choose your favorite distance (5K or 10K or a marathon). The choice itself, the thought, and the actual preparations and the competition proper are enough factors to keep you busy (training) and motivated (prestige and awards) enough.

• Other runners are motivated by setting bigger goals to their training (if competing) or in just plain running. They set up faster times, or longer distances as their next goals.

Variations
Runners can also stay motivated by adding some variety into their program. They can vary the courses (and terrain) they are running (jogging across the woods or the tracks), distance, speed and intensity (doing sprints in straight tracks and jogging in curves) among other things.

Running with a friend (in twos or threes) can sometimes perk up an otherwise monotonous activity. Thinking of someone going with you on a run can sometimes be a very good motivation to do it. Working alone makes staying in bed in a cold morning seems extremely tempting.

Time-off
Occasionally, it may be beneficial to take some time off from running. This may appear counter-intuitive, but it is effective. In fact, there are many other cardio activities to be considered such as jumping rope, rowing, cycling, or incorporating a varied of workout videos that will get your heart pumping. It’s no secret that my favorite workout videos are from Beachbody. You will get a great workout and they are fun. Plus, the break from running makes you feel recharged and raring to go back running.

I hope you find these tips useful. HAPPY TRAILS!

– Wishing you continued success in your fitness journey!