Runners! Read these 6 tips that are worth their weight in gold!
Each of us has at some point in life felt a loss of motivation for a particular activity or obligation, which does not necessarily mean anything bad. Perhaps we just need to change the way we do that activity or how we approach it. It is similar with running. Many runners at some point, due to excessive expectations, inadequately set goals, creating too much pressure, perhaps unrealistic expectations or strictly imposed rules, end up losing motivation, so we bring you six tips from the renowned runner Mark Pierce that will help you stay motivated and enjoy running.
- Don’t compare yourself with others
Whether you run one kilometre or 10 doesn’t matter that much! Try to avoid comparisons with others and don’t burden yourself with other people’s results. The only person you answer to must be you. Run at your own speed, turn it into enjoyment, let it be as comfortable or as hard as you want and feel. You decide whether to run at maximum speed over a shorter stretch, at an easy pace, or to walk. One kilometre or ten, it doesn’t matter, let it be whatever suits you!
- Change your route
Explore new spaces for running. Change routes, embark on an adventure through new paths or parks, make sure you lift your head while running and enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. “Break” the monotony and the established routine, run without a standard route and excessive expectations. Sometimes you can even switch off the GPS and enjoy a new destination without imposing a distance on yourself!
- Run to the rhythm of music
You can also build good motivation by creating a playlist of your favourite songs. Choose songs that motivate and inspire you, or simply suit your current mood. If you choose an easier route, you can even give yourself over to your favourite podcast. You will be surprised how quickly the kilometres pass when you “get absorbed”.
- Just get up and go!
Start your day off with an easy run, enjoy a morning tour of an easier route. You will see how it gives you a feeling of productivity and readiness for everything else you have planned for that day.
- Choose a challenge that matches your abilities
Although the pressure to run a certain time or distance can be the cause of a lack of motivation, sometimes it is worse when you have no goal at all, and that can demotivate you further. In line with your current form, you can choose some routes that are shorter or easier to run.
- Always remember how good you will feel after running
Write down a message that will motivate you next time. When motivation before a run is low, always remember this: you will feel great when it’s over! Exercise and endorphins will improve your mood, reduce stress, and sometimes even lead you to a state of euphoria. It might not be a bad idea to occasionally write down how you feel after running, or to record a short video message that you can watch next time as part of preparing for a new undertaking!