How to get New Year running resolutions back on track
Like millions of others around the world, you started January with high hopes of taking your running to the next level. And like many others, you’ve hit a brick wall that has seen your initial enthusiasm slide.
Don’t panic, you can still get your running goals back on track!
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a first-time runner struggling to get into their stride or an experienced runner unable to knock it up a gear. Here’s what you can do to achieve your goals for 2022 and beyond.
Set realistic goals
Nothing kills your enthusiasm quite like falling short of your target. While it’s great that you want to unlock your full potential, being too ambitious could set you up for failure. If you are an experienced athlete, planning to complete your first marathon is probably wiser than setting a timed goal. After all, setting a PB will be the perfect goal for your second marathon.
For new runners, it may be better to focus on getting out regularly rather than running a certain distance. Running five times per week, even if it includes periods of walking, will signal progress. Conversely, if you set a goal of running 5km and then stop after 500m, you would consider giving up.
Likewise, breaking down your big goals into small and achievable targets should help. A positive mindset is truly the most important asset at your disposal.
Pay closer attention to fuelling and recovery
Even for an experienced runner, running only consumes a small part of your routine. After all, an hour on the track or treadmill is still less than 5% of your day. Therefore, learning to use the other 95% of your day as a solid platform for success will be vital. Essentially, it will enable you to perform better, which will naturally aid your motivation too.
If you are running for weight loss, it may be tempting to undereat. However, your body needs energy just like a car needs gas. Without the right fuel, you cannot perform as desired. Experts like EatProtein can provide the right stuff for running, as well as strength training. You must also stay hydrated at all times.
Meanwhile, a good night’s sleep lets your muscles recover. Should you experience an injury, be sure to rest it. Your body is smart, listen to it.
Make running fun
Running is one of the best sports in the world. Aside from its accessibility, the impact on your cardiovascular health is almost unbeaten. You’ll also grow stronger muscles. In today’s fast-paced world, the chance to break free from daily stresses is a great thing too. However, if you allow running to become a chore rather than a hobby, you’ll struggle to keep it up.
There are many ways to make running more enjoyable. Social events like parkrun add a social aspect as well as a competitive edge. A local running club can also be an ideal solution. Alternatively, you can use social running Apps and tracker watches to compete against friends from around the world.
Another fantastic tip is to create a brilliant playlist of tunes for running. Feeling happy while you run will make a world of difference.
Change your attire
Looking the part makes you feel the part. When it comes to running, though, the right choice of attire plays a far more significant role. It can impact everything from your gait and posture to skin comfort. This can translate to small yet noticeable improvements to your performance on the treadmill, track, or streets. The lack of discomfort will also encourage consistency.
Selecting the right footwear should sit at the very top of your agenda. Of course, choosing between spikes or flat running shoes will depend on the running surface. However, it’s also important that you choose the right shoe width, as well as the right sole. This can aid your comfort levels during runs and help reduce injury risks.
The right base layer attire can be very important for your comfort during runs. The right measurements should be deemed more important than the brands you choose.
Change the scenery
Running your favourite routes can be great for developing a pacing strategy or tracking your progress over the weeks. Yet, there is a very real threat that it can become a source of boredom. Learning to mix things up with some new routes can work wonders. For starters, trying a range of street, trail, and treadmill running is great. For your shins and mind.
The versatile approach is sure to keep your mind more engaged. Besides, it offers you a greater chance of finding the type of running that you love best. Enjoyment leads to consistency, which also means your performance levels will improve. And if you’re looking to lose weight or build stamina for sports, the benefits will show.
If you are thinking about joining organised events and races, trying out a range of locations will also allow you to explore the country in style.
Embrace a winning schedule
Routines are priceless for runners. Not least because it allows you to ensure that you are getting enough rest between sessions. And getting a suitable mixture of pace-building and stamina-building runs. Once you find the running schedule that works for you, it’ll be far easier to stay motivated while you’ll also have fewer excuses to skip sessions.
The truth is that running has to fit your life schedule. Life organising apps like Plan are ideal. When you have actively made time for exercise, it becomes easier to keep with it. Sadly, when work and other commitments get too much, it is usually your fitness that will be sacrificed. So, a conscious effort to change this is key.
It’s not only a move that will enhance your running habits. You should notice improvements in other aspects of your life. Frankly, it’s the least that you deserve.
The final word
Above all else, you need to truly want this. Mile after mile of running is almost impossible if you don’t want to do it. Conversely, when you find your inner sense of determination and desire, the rewards will be incredible.
