This is tough and getting started really is the biggest
hurdle. Someone asked in a post recently on facebook how to help her sister get
motivated. This got me to thinking about myself. I spent almost 2 years as a
beginning runner going out and hitting the pavement for about 2 miles….on a
good day! It was a start, but I began to realize that there is more to running
than just cranking out 2 miles a few days a week. Besides reaping the health
benefits, I wanted to really run!
There are a plethora of fun running events to join in and I
wanted to try them and do relatively well at them. I’ve never truly considered
myself an athlete. I tried out for teams, did okay and moved onto the next
sport throughout my teen years. I danced, played softball, swam, attempted
basketball (I’m way too short for that one!) and even was on the volleyball
team. Running wasn’t even on my radar at that time and yes I was one of those
folks who thought, “Running? Only if I’m being chased by a bear!”
1)
Set a
Goal: As a runner I find that what motivates me the most is goal
setting. Having something to work for keeps me going, helps me find time in the
day to fit in a workout and most importantly gets me out of bed on those days
that I really just want to snuggle up in the covers and stay warm and cozy.
I’ve got a bucket list full of races that I
hope to do one day, but my current goal of running the Ragnar Relay focuses me
on knowing that this run isn’t just for me; I’ve got 11 other ladies counting
on me to complete my legs of the run well. Preparation is key for this one!
2)
Run
with a Buddy or Group: Now
this isn’t for everyone, but I find that running with someone else keeps me
motivated – especially on those days that you aren’t having the most
spectacular run. Having a person to chat with on a long run chases away the
boredom when even your I-pod playlist is getting old! A running buddy waiting
outside on the sidewalk also has its perks!
3)
Wear
Comfy Clothes: This is a biggie for me! I love workout clothing (as my
husband can attest to this) and I like to be comfortable AND look cute at the same
time. Now I am the first to admit that when I finish a run I do look like I’m
about to have a stroke, but feeling good about the outfit when you walk out the
door is a plus. Seriously though, you need to be sure your outfit fits well and
doesn’t chafe once you get going. There is nothing worse than an ill fitting
sports bra or socks that won’t stay up! And don’t skimp on the running shoes!
Be sure they are fitted properly!
4)
Track
your progress: I love, love, love my Garmin 110 watch! (Thanks to my
boys for this awesome Christmas present!) Being able to see your miles, time
and calories burned each run will keep you going. This particular watch plugs into
my computer and I can track everything including my route. Written training
logs or apps for your phone can do the same thing. Many mornings I’ve run just
a little further to reach the next mile…
5)
Encourage
someone else: I’ve appreciated the encouragement I’ve received from
fellow runners even if I don’t know them! A simple thumbs up while running on
the beach to a “Keep you’re a$$ moving sister” from a by-stander at a race
(yes, this did happen!) can give you that little umph you need to keep on going.
I try to pass this on to others whenever I can. A few words can mean so much.
 | ||||
| Love this encouraging sign from a marathon! That would keep me going! |
As always, let me know your thoughts on motivation! Keep
kickin’ it my friends!
If you run, you are a runner!
~Rachel
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