7 Ways To Stay Motivated To Run

That’s why we’ve crafted a guide that not only boosts your motivation, but also turns running into a more fulfilling part of your life. Here’s a quick peek at what we’ll cover:

If you’re just here for the quick details, these pointers should keep you on track. But if you’re diving deeper, each section of our guide is designed to expand on these tips with practical advice and tips, ensuring you can maintain your motivation to run and continue to enjoy all the benefits running has to offer.

Know What Drains Your Motivation to Run
Know what drains your motivation to run.

Take the cold, for instance. If you’re anything like me, the idea of heading out for a run on a chilly morning can be daunting. The temptation to stay snug in bed is real! To combat this, I’ve developed a few strategies that make it easier to face the frost. One effective tactic is to set out my running attire in front of the heater the night before, ensuring they’re toasty and inviting when it’s time to head out the door. Sometimes, I’ll even sleep in my running gear to minimise the morning chill.

Setting a coffee machine timer to brew a hot cup right when you wake up can also be a useful strategy to get you up and moving. Instead of focusing on the discomfort of the cold, I shift my attention to the invigorating feeling of completing my run. There’s nothing quite like the sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering a challenge, especially when it sets such a positive tone for the day.

7 Ways To Stay Motivated To Run Remember Your Why's and Goals
When Motivation to run slips, remember your Why’s and Goals.

Many of us start running to enhance our health and fitness, and work towards achieving our self-improvement ideals – your ‘why’s’. Whenever you find it tough to step out the door, refocus intently on your initial reasons for starting running in the first place, and imagine how you’ll feel once you achieve your goals.

Set clear health and fitness objectives and break them into small, manageable steps. Achieving these mini-goals weekly ensures a constant motivation boost, making it easier to lace up and head out the door.

A large goal can sometimes feel daunting, almost too challenging to tackle, leading to discouragement and thoughts of giving up. That’s why it’s crucial to divide these big aspirations into smaller, more manageable mini-goals. By achieving these incremental milestones week by week, you remain motivated to run, and they keep the process enjoyable.

Running Buddy, Coach or Mentor
Find a Running Buddy, a Coach or a Mentor.

Let’s explore the advantages and benefits of teaming up with running buddies, coaches, and mentors, and why bringing them into your running routine can significantly boost your motivation and drive.

Your Running Buddy.

Partnering up with a running buddy is a fantastic way to ensure you consistently hit the pavement. Commit to a schedule – write it down, put it in your calendar, make it a non-negotiable part of your day.

Find A Coach.

After all, you’re less likely to skip a session that you’ve paid for, even on days when you’re not feeling your best. Showing up not only pleases your coach, but also leaves you that great feeling of accomplishment after completing the workout. It’s a triple win: your coach is happy, your investment pays off, and you feel accomplished.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with getting a coach for something that seems as straightforward as running. A coach offers more than just workout advice and personalised training plans tailored just for you, they’re also a great source of motivation. Your coach will celebrate your achievements with you and help accelerate your progress toward your goals.

Tap Into The Help Of An Experienced Mentor.

Just discussing your feelings and challenges can be incredibly motivating. Remember, everyone encounters dips in motivation from time to time. Having a mentor to discuss these moments with can provide you with the strategies, guidance and encouragement needed to get back on track.

To find a mentor, start by joining local running clubs or community groups where experienced runners gather. Additionally, participating in running events or local races can connect you with seasoned runners who are often eager to share their knowledge. Online running forums and social media groups are also excellent resources, providing access to a wide network of runners from all over the world who can offer advice, encouragement, and mentorship.

7 Ways To Stay Motivated To Run New workout or Running Location
Try a new running workout, or a new place to run.

Here are some ideas to help keep you motivated to run:

New Running Locations.

Shake things up by exploring new and exciting places to run. Here’s how:

New Workouts.

We’ve already taken care of changing up your running location, let’s now work on changing the type of running you are doing.

Here’s how to add some variety into your routine, try these workout ideas:

Making It Fun.

Inject some fun into your running sessions:

These changes can make your runs more interesting and motivate you to keep moving, no matter how far or fast you go.

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Using Technology as a source of motivation as you run
Use Technology to help inspire you as you run.

Sports Watches.

Sports watches from various brands offer diverse features suited to all budgets and needs. What can they do?

Using a sports watch helps you monitor your performance and makes planning and adjusting your workouts based on specific goals easier. Plus, you can share your stats and maps on social media, adding a social element to your training.

Smartphone Apps.

Entertainment Options.

Additional Gadgets.

Leveraging these technologies can transform your running experience, making each run exciting and engaging while providing valuable data to track your progress. Whether you’re exploring new trails with GPS guidance or escaping zombies, technology brings a new dimension to your runs.

7 Ways To Stay Motivated To Run Keep a Running Journal
Keep a Running Journal to keep track of all your progress.

Advantages of Keeping a Running Journal.

Enhanced Journaling Tips.

To make your running journal even more effective, consider these tips:

A running journal is more than just a record – it’s a motivational tool that encourages mindfulness and intentionality in your running journey. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been running for years, keeping a journal can really boost your training. It adds a layer of reflection that helps you see just how far you’ve come and where you might tweak things to improve.

7 Ways To Stay Motivated To Run Rewarding Yourself
Sometimes a little reward after a great workout is a great motivator.

Though the sense of accomplishment after a great run can often be a reward in itself, having a tangible reward can often give you that extra motivation to get moving, especially in times when your enthusiasm to work out is a little diminished.

Here are some fun and satisfying ways to reward yourself after a run or achieving a goal:

7 Ways To Stay Motivated To Run Wrap Up
Insights from 7 Ways To Stay Motivated To Run.

Overcoming the Inevitable Dips in Staying Motivated To Run.

Here are a few takeaways to help you push through those low-motivation days:

Beware of This Motivation Killer.

Negative people can sap your enthusiasm. You know why you run, and while others might not understand your passion, it’s important to stay true to your goals and disconnect from any negativity that could derail your motivation.

Happy Running

Steve


What should I do when I feel too tired to run?

When you feel too tired, try starting with a short, easy run. Often, just getting out the door can help you feel more energised. Listen to your body, and if you’re genuinely exhausted, consider a rest day or a lighter activity like stretching or walking. Don’t throw a scheduled run until you’ve at least completed your warm-up. If you still feel too tired or not fully recovered from your last workout after warming up, consider postponing your run until tomorrow.


How can I make my runs more enjoyable?

To make your runs more enjoyable, mix up your routes, try new workouts or a running challenge, listen to music, audiobooks or podcasts, or run with a buddy. Incorporating rewards and varying your running environment can also keep things interesting and maintain your motivation.


How can technology help me stay motivated to run?

Technology can track your progress, provide new routes, connect you with a community, and provide entertainment as you work out. Use sports watches, running apps like Strava, and fun apps like Zombie Run to keep your runs engaging and to monitor your performance.


What are some mental strategies to stay motivated to run?

Practice positive self-talk, visualise your goals, celebrate the progress you have already made towards your goals, and use mantras to push through tough moments. Mindfulness and meditation can also help you stay focused and motivated to run.


How do I stay motivated to run when running alone?

Listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks to keep you entertained. Plan scenic routes and use apps to track your progress and stay connected with the running community online. Running in areas frequented by other runners can also help you feel less isolated.


How can I stay motivated to run if I’ve hit a plateau in my running performance?

Switch up your training routine with new workouts, new locations, or cross-training activities. Set new, achievable goals and consider working with a coach to get personalised advice and strategies. Consider joining a running club or group; they often offer varied workouts and routines that can help advance your training progress.


Disclaimer. This article is for information purposes only and is not a recommendation to act on any of its content. It is always recommended you consult with your healthcare practitioner before engaging in any activity that may affect your health.


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