Eventually, most runners fall into is something called a “running rut.” Has this ever happened to you?
You start a running program for a few weeks, or even months, and feel great about it. You almost can’t imagine life without it! But then, all of a sudden you find yourself in a slump. YOu lack motivation to get out of bed before the sun comes up or end up on the couch in the evening instead of hitting the road.
You probably think in the morning, “I’ll just go back to sleep for a bit and run this evening instead” or “I’ll take another rest day and go for a run tomorrow”.
…But tomorrow ends up being the next day, and then the next day . . .
If this ever happens, you are definitely not alone. It happens to almost everyone – even the top competitors and seasoned athletes!
But, it’s important for many reasons to get back to your running routine. After all, you set big goals for yourself and you deserve to reach them.
In addition, being more active has a whole range of physical and mental health benefits you don’t want to miss out on. We want your joints to remain mobile, your muscles strong, and your body at low risk for injury.
We want to help you stay on track all year round. So, we will share some tips on how you can get yourself out of a running rut for good!
Change Your Route
Many runners only have one or two routes they run on a regular basis. Sure it might be convenient, and you know the exact mileage your getting – but after a while it will lose it’s appeal and running will become boring. You wouldn’t eat the same one or two foods everyday, so find a few different routes to take to spice things up.
Run Shorter But Faster
For some runners, going the same distance day after day is an accomplishment, but it can also feel like a scene from Groundhog Day. As you set your goals, include a variety of distances and speeds. Why not challenge yourself to run faster for a shorter distance today? Embarking on a run that will only take 20 minutes is easier to get motivated for than an hour long commitment.
Remember Why You Started
Remind yourself why you started running in the first place. Was it for health or weight loss? Did you want better stamina in your everyday life or to accomplish completing a marathon? Remember how GREAT you feel – in your body and mind – when you got to the end of a run.
I know it’s not easy to pull yourself out of an exercise rut and getting up the motivation to start a new – but it is 100% possible. If you pain while running is keeping you in a rut or out of commission, download our FREE report:
8 Proven Ways for Runners to Stop Hip and Knee Pain – Run Faster and Longer Pain Free Without Having to Stop Your Running Routine.
This will show you step by step what you can do at home to be able to enjoy running again. Now get your running shoes back on and have fun out there!
