I’m too tired, I am too busy, I’ll go later, all excuses I used before either eventually convincing myself to move out of the front door or just throw the towel in completely. Running – it’s a love hate relationship. Some of us pop on our trainers and feel a sense of determination and excitement, whilst others lace up with dread building up from our toes about how the next 20 minutes are going to go. This blog is for those of you who want to get into running, want to actually start enjoying it or feel like you’re in a rut and need a little inspiration.
Too cold?
We get it, winter is a time when for some, running outside is the last thing you want to be doing. Luckily there’s the treadmill. If the weather is putting you off, or if you are a beginner and want to start somewhere, the treadmill is a great piece of kit. It might not have the wind resistance and terrain of running outside, but it’s a great way to get in at least a 20 minute run.
Shop ‘til you drop
Buying new running gear really helped me get back into the swing of things earlier this year, sometimes a new pair of trainers or even just a running top can help you get excited about the prospect of a run. If not only to show off how swanky you look in the park
Banging playlist
Music plays a major part in any run I do, I have different playlists depending on the length of my run or what mood I’m in the day. If it’s a day where I’m feeling out of motivation, I’ll ensure there are some high tempo tracks from Chase & Status, Eminem etc. to really get my determination at its peak.
Buddy up
If you’re feeling worried about the prospect of running, chances are one of your friend might be too. Get in touch and see if anyone fancies joining you, you can jog at a comfortable pace so that you can have a conversation and it’s a chance to get rid of the excuse of having plans. The new plans will be with that friend and exercise fits in too! Also if you set a date with a friend, chances are you won’t let them down.
Friends not interested in running? There’s a solution for you too.
Friends aren’t you’re thing? Just kidding, we’re sure you have many, but if none of them fancy lacing up, Parkrun is a great option. They are held all over the country, every weekend, you simply register online, turn up, run and get given a time. There are runners of all abilities so you won’t feel left out. It’s a great team spirit and you’ll become part of a running community.
Commitment time
Pick an event, pay for your entry and you’ll find it hard not to start training for the big day! Be it a marathon or a 5k there are loads to choose from in locations all over the country.
Speed up… no wait, slow down?
My favourite type of training, this can be done in the gym or outside. If you’re in a park, choose an object in the distance, sprint to it, then walk until you reach another object, then sprint again. Repeat this process for around 20 minutes and you’ll be feeling great. The change in pace means that things don’t get boring and it helps burn more fat than running at a steady speed for 20 minutes.
Leave the technology at home
Sometimes using an app or a fitness watch can drag you down, being in London I often find my Garmin plays up leaving me confused about the pace I am going or feeling deflated that today I am going a lot slower than usual. Once a week I try and leave my phone and watch at home and even my music, and simply go out and run until I feel like I have done enough. You’re completely free and have some quality time to yourself whilst exercising and being in the great outdoors. No pressure and no worries!
It’s a big world out there
Once a month, I make an effort to pick somewhere new to go running. New scenery keeps things varied and more exciting – you might find a new restaurant or coffee shop to come back too as well. Feeling really brave? Why not cycle to your new location, run around and then cycle back. Works really well if you are duathlon training!
