Running is an excellent way to get in shape and feel great, but it can also be tricky. There are times when you don't feel like running or when you're feeling tired and discouraged. This is true if you are training for your next 10K or one of the major 6 marathons like the Boston Marathon, New York City Marathon, or the Chicago Marathon.
If you're struggling to stay motivated, here are a few tips:
- Set realistic goals. If you're starting, don't set a goal of running a marathon. Start with a smaller plan, like running for 30 minutes three times or more a week. Once you've achieved that goal, you can gradually increase your distance and frequency.
- Find a running buddy. Having someone to run with can help you stay motivated and accountable. You can motivate each other on tough days, and you can also enjoy each other's company.
- Make running fun. Listen to music, run in a beautiful place, or join a running club. Whatever you do, make sure you're enjoying yourself. If you're not having fun, you're less likely to stick with it.
- Reward yourself. When you reach a goal, give yourself a small reward. This could be anything from a new pair of running shoes to a day off from running. Rewarding yourself will help you stay motivated and on track.
- Don't give up. There will be times when you want to quit. Maybe you're injured, or maybe you don't feel like running. But don't give up! Just take a break and come back to it later. Running is a marathon, not a sprint.
Remember, the most important thing is to keep running, even if it's just for a few minutes. Every little bit counts. And the more you run, the easier it will become. So get out there and start running!
Photo by RUN 4 FFWPU
Source: Google Bard (Testing)
