How to Motivate Your Running

Whether you're a novice or long-time runner, everyone suffers from lack of motivation occasionally. This article provides tips and ideas to inject enthusiasm into your running regimen and get you through your slump!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Lack of Motivation

1. Set up a reward program. I once saw an item I really wanted but couldn't justify the expense. I decided to run for it. I kept a log of my mileage, and when I had accumulated 50 miles, I bought the item as a reward. I have trouble pushing myself through the cold, bleak days of winter. Last year I filled a basket with small items such as new running socks, a chocolate bar, a new CD etc. Whenever I completed 5 miles (which usually took me two runs), I chose an item from the basket. When all my treats were gone, spring had arrived and I was in great shape. You may choose to give yourself daily rewards for example, If I run today I get a latté, if I don't run, no latté, I really like latté.....connect the dots. This also works with beer.
2. Running with Run with your dog. If you have a dog that is about the right size for running (no weenie dogs), and is in proper health, take him along on your next run. My dogs recognise when I'm wearing my "running clothes" and they go nuts! Just when I'm thinking, " oh yuck, I have to go run", they are all grins and wags. To see them take such complete joy in as simple an endeavour as running has really changed my perspective on my daily jogs. Many days when I would have ditched my run altogether, I go just for them.
3. Train for a race. Choose a 5K, 10K etc. and make a training plan. Do you want to complete a new distance or better a previous race time? Whatever your goal, having something to work towards will put purpose in your runs. There is just something exciting about pinning that number to your chest. Even better, sign up with a friend (or spouse) and make it a competition.
4. Take a break. Sometimes to run more you have to run less. Pick a defined time period for your break, say 7-14 days, then do something different during the time you would normally devote to running. Buy a yoga DVD and try it out on your regular run days. Swim laps, ride a bike, or try walking your running route. You'd be surprised how different things look when you slow down a bit. Or take a break for working out all together. Paint your living room, clean out your garage, meditate. You won't lose that much fitness level in 1-2 weeks and the rest and change of pace will give you a boost when you start back.