Get your run on at your weakest moment
As much as you enjoy and identify with running, admittedly there are some days when the last thing you want to do is run. Maybe a time constraint or other engagement prevents you from getting your daily sweat sesh in at times, but what about those days when you have all the time in the world, without prior engagements and simply no interest or energy to run? Sometimes you need a little motivation and inspiration to get you going. A bag of running tricks below!
Music
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Consider creating a new playlist specific to the duration of your run. Since you're not in the mood to run, opt for a short run and push yourself. Try to run two miles at your best pace and create your playlist to reflect what you want your finishing time to be. If your goal is seven-minute miles, create a 14-minute playlist and see if you can run two miles before your playlist ends. Alternatively, try downloading a new song you've enjoyed on the radio. Add it to an existing playlist and shuffle it when you begin your run. Theoretically, you'll look forward to listening to your new song and when it does come on, you'll have a burst of energy!
New Route
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Try a new route, street or park to shake things up a bit. You don't even need to have a game plan on your way out the door; let your feet lead the way. Running the same route over and over again can become dull and actually disadvantageous to your fitness progression. If you normally run out and back routes, try a loop route and vice-versa. Changing your route can do wonders for your regular runs!
Friends
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Joining a running club or team can help you schedule your workouts regularly and keep you in check when you're not feeling your run. If your community meets every week at a specific time and day, you can add that workout to your weekly routine. Make new connections in the community and start running together in your own neighborhood. If you have a friend waiting on you, you'll be less likely to cancel and more eager to meet them and get your run on.
Post-Run Treat
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Motivate and reward yourself with a little post-run treat. Whether that means a frozen yogurt, ice cold beer or hot chocolate, consider ending your run at your favorite joint to indulge in your preferred treat. You could also host an impromptu BBQ as the weather warms up, with your circle of friends and family being your post-run inspiration and treat. All good things in moderation though!
If all else fails, it's really OK to walk or rest, but anything is better than nothing! You will probably feel more motivated and refreshed if you do have a rest day, but don't make it a habit when you're not feeling your run. Remember, you're a runner with a purpose; if it were easy, everybody would do it!
Main article image courtesy of Indulgy