It’s always easy to come up with excuses to avoid something, but the key is to counter those excuses with reasons to just do it. Maybe you just were not feeling it or maybe the weather was against you, or maybe, just maybe, it’s your motivation that’s lacking. So get yourself together and get moving. You will feel better after running.
Let’s take a look at some of those easy ways to get you back out on the track and stay committed to your running routine.
1. Get competitive
Find a group of people to run with a friendly competition and chart your times against others.
2. Reward yourself
The end reward is definitely worth it when you’ve accomplished your goal. Now rewards can be as simple as going for a SPA, grabbing a donut or beer, buying a new running gear, etc.
3. Set goals
Break your end targets into small, manageable targets. This can include the number of training hours you put in per week, your mileage, or the number of days you run.
4. Let the music move you
Music makes a big impact on performance, so give yourself some time to create a playlist of all your favorite songs. Pick upbeat songs that keep you in a good mood and inspire you to move.
5. Add Variety
It is always considered to switch up your routine at least one day per week. Do hill running instead of a long distance, or you can add in some sprints. You can also change the route of your run, or change the time of day.
6. Feel the sunshine on your face
Running is a great way to get the sunlight needed to boost serotonin levels. This helps to keep you in a good mood while reducing anxiety and depression.
7. Find a fan club
Running a marathon is not a small achievement, and if it’s your first one, let your close friends know about it. They will be some who will happily support you and check in with your progress as you prepare or progress. You can also invite your friends to join you in some of your runs.
8. Track your runs
If you don’t track your runs already, this can prove to be one of the most effective (and easy) ways to stay motivated. With this you can see your progress that you are making and make you committed toward it.
9. Get running gear you love
If you feel like you need to just by putting on your running gear, your inner rival won’t stand a chance. To maintain this positivity, boost your wardrobe with essentials for all weather conditions. You will not only look great, but feel great too.
10. Join a running club
Joining a running club is a great way to interact with new people, find new routes, and add in friendly competition and motivation. You are more likely to train better even when you’re not feeling it if you have others running buddies around you.
11. Read a book or watch movies on running
When you have a deeper understanding of something, you will have more interest in it, and running is no different. Educate yourself by finding a book or film on running or runners journey. It will give you new reasons for running. Inspiration will follow, as mental blocks fade away.
12. Run somewhere new
New places bring new feelings with them, so if you’re finding your current running route monotonous, look for somewhere new. It will really help you beat your inner competitor.
Ultimately, it’s only you who can lace up your sneakers and set out on your course. It’s easy to come up with reasons why you can’t run on any given day, but it’s just as easy to turn it around by creating a list of the reasons why you can. Stay focused on the reasons you like to run and the benefits it brings.
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