Lost your running mojo?
There are many ways to get you back out running!
Fallen out of love with running and finding it all a chore? Here is how to get out of a rut!
I have been lucky enough to participate and enjoy running since my childhood years. I was one of those strange guys who enjoyed cross country and long distance running as a kid and have always loved the process of running so I am lucky to have the background. Running though can be difficult to stay consistent at and even I go through periods of losing enjoyment. After competing in the ARC50 ultra race at the beginning of this year, I took some time off as I had lost the enjoyment of running and needed a reset. Here are my tips if you suffer a loss of mojo – running should be enjoyable – make sure you keep it that way!
- Mindset. Why are you running? Remember your why. My ‘why’ is for fitness, enjoyment and time out in nature. Because I do this for enjoyment, it has to be fun. Your ‘why’ will help you keep motivated.
- Timing. Make it fun by prioritising when I want to run and building my day around it rather than squeezing a run in when you can. Experiment with running during different times of day to see if there is time of day which works better for you.
- Take some time off and walk in the countryside rather than run. It will maintain an element of fitness and stamina.
- Environment. I don’t enjoy running on pavements and no roads so I stick to trails as much as possible to take in my surroundings. If you are not close to trails take in parks or drive / jump on public transport the countryside. Studies have shown that exposure to trees and wildlife has huge mental health and enjoyment benefits.
- Switch on or off. I don’t listen to music or podcasts but if you do, experiment without and if out and aim to take in your surroundings. Vice versa try listening to music if things become a slog.
- Run shorter. If you run more consistently and shorter distances you will be less daunted with the thought of running. Small consistent gains lead to extraordinary results.
- Buy some new kit! A new pair of shoes for example may revolutionise your running experience and also will get you excited about getting out there.
- Run with friends. It is amazing how quickly time passes when you are chatting with friends. You will also automatically hit the sweet spot of Zone 2 running at a pace where you can hold a conversation. Even better, shared experience will cement your friendships
- Join a running group or club. It is a ready made community for you to join. My experience is that running Clubs are inclusive and whilst I was initially sceptical it can be something you look forward to each week, make new friends and discover new routes. If you enjoy your experience you will be eager not to miss the next meet up.
- Run commute. Try and schedule a run to or from work even if you have to be creative with public transport or leave you car halfway. It is a great way to mentally prepare for your day or unwind afterwards.
