Right now I am struggling to get my running mojo back. I am getting fed up with the motivational push notification that keep appearing on my phone screen from Runtastic.
The last few times I have managed to get myself out the door for a run, I have struggled. I know it is because I am out of practice… my stamina level is not as it used to be. I am back to almost beginner level… those 10ks I was easily doing a couple of years ago are right back to 5 or 6k – and with stops too.
I know I just need to get back into a routine.
I can put off a run for a number of reasons. This week it’s because it’s too hot. Last week it was because I was feeling run-down. Other excuses might be:
- I don’t have time (it takes min. 30mins for a half-decent run!)
- I don’t have the energy (you know you’ll feel better for it)
- It’s too cold / raining / windy / or any other preventative weather condition (pathetic)
- I’ve had a shower and done my make-up & hair (even more pathetic!!!!)
- It’s too dark (agree that I shouldn’t run alone in the dark, but c’mon, I’m not working so I can run in daylight!)
- I can’t find my headphones (this is a real one – I really, really do need music if I am running alone)
- I’ve just had a cup of tea (another real one – I literally cannot drink at least 2 hrs before a run!!!)
Sometimes, I put on my running gear in the morning… but get to the end of the day, and oh dear, I haven’t managed to actually go for a run!!!
It’s not as if I challenge myself to run long distances. I’ve never been interested in running a marathon or even half-marathon. 12k is the longest distance I have ever run, but these days I tend to go out for 35-50mins which usually equates to 6-8km. Easily do-able.
So why do I procrastinate so much? When I think about all the positives of running, what’s not to love?
- Endorphins. More often than not, I get that runner’s ‘high’ – those feel-good brain chemicals that are released through exercise. Coupled with the uplifting house tunes pumping through my headphones, it provides the kind of euphoria I remember from my clubbing days.
- Freedom. I live in a rugged, coastal area where there are many of off-road routes to take with beautiful scenery. The air is crisp and clean and the skies are big and wide. Perfect running terrain. When I”m bogged down with the kids or fed-up in the house, running provides a wonderful sense of freedom.
- Health benefits. Aside from the obvious benefit to my body, there’s the mental benefits too. Running clears my mind and helps process my thoughts. I feel energised both mentally and physically after a run.
- Reward. I adore that post-run, exhilarated feeling where you pat yourself on the back for a good job done. Later in the day, I happily and smugly tuck into my food, guilt-free!!
Right now, I am not finding running fun.. My legs are like lead weights, or I feel sick from exhaustion, or later in the day my energy is totally zapped. But I do remember feeling absoultely fantastic afer a run so I am hoping to get back to that. The good runs generally outweigh the bad ones.
So how do I get out of this running rut?
When I think about it, I know what I need to do…
- I need to get out first thing, before my intentions are interrupted by excuses and the demands of the day, and before I’ve had something to drink.
- I need to get my running partner back (Samantha!!!) Running with a friend helps immensely. Chatting (or attempting to) takes my mind off the actual effort. Making an arrangement with someone else holds me to my commitment to myself.
- I need to keep re-reading this post and focus on the positives of running. In fact, just sitting here writing about it has made me want to get out and RUN, so I should just seize the moment and do it! (Agrrr but I’ve just had a cup of coffee!!!)
Do you run? If so, do you go through running ups and downs like me? Do you procrastinate too?
What are your tips? I would really love to hear from you!
3 comments
Yes I do run! I find listening to a book motivates me to go because I want to hear the next bit. However, I do have a million excuses up my sleeve ready if I don’t!
That’s an interesting technique Jane! I’ve always relied on motivational music when I run, I’m not sure I could listen to a book… but it’s worth a try!!!
I love to run
My tips would be
Have lots of different playlists have different routes and different distances
Once a week I take the dog ? he like a short run 7k
Also why not challenge yourself to an event then you have something to train for
Oh and I love a good hill something to conquer you’ll feel like Wonder Woman
Xx