Instead of – Feeling fatigued or tired
Focus on - Just doing 15 minutes
Being inactive makes you tired. Simply tell yourself that you only need to run for 15 minutes. That way it won’t seem too daunting, and you can stay on track with your training routine. And who knows, once you’re actually out there running, you might actually feel like doing a little extra. Also, check you are on top of other lifestyle issues that may be making you fatigued, such as sleep quality and quantity, hydration levels and iron intake.
Instead of – Skipping training because it’s cold, dark, wet or windy outside
Focus on – Indoor activities
Ok, there will be some days where you just wouldn’t want to go outside. Have a few indoor options to choose from to break up your training routine. Consider a gym visit, an exercise DVD, body weight or fitness ball exercises, or hire a piece of exercise equipment to help you stay on track. You may even be able to find a pool to swim laps in or take part in a water aerobics class. These different types of exercises can act as your weekly cross training session, giving your running muscles a break while still boosting your cardiovascular fitness or strength.
Instead of – Generally feeling unmotivated
Focus on – Having an excuse busting goal
What is it that you are trying to achieve with your running? What goals have you set yourself? Try to come up with positive goals that really mean something to you. For example, finishing the local fun run is a better goal than to lose weight. It needs to be powerful enough that it will pick you up out of bed instead of keeping you curled up in your doona.
Instead of – Skipping a run because your training partner can’t make it
Focus on – Your personal best time
One of the best ways to give yourself a push during a run is to try and beat your own personal best time. Set yourself a challenge by timing at least one of your runs over a set distance each week or two. It’s a great way to motivate yourself, and it is an important way to monitor your progress and get results. Who better to compete with than yourself?
Instead of – Feeling stressed or overwhelmed
Focus on – Using your run to relax
Whatever life serves up to you, why not use your running training to help give your mind a break. Even if it’s just a lighter training session, try to focus on something positive and use this to your advantage. Develop a rhythm and concentrate on breathing in and breathing out. This can engage your mind and distract you from other matters that might be causing you to feel unmotivated. You can be certain that by the end of your run, you will feel better than when you started.