Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, everybody can get into a rut sometimes. Maybe you get bored with the same old route, or you just find your motivation slumping. So, to get back on track, here are 10 simple changes that can give you motivation to keep running.
1. Run back home
Running in loops is convenient but it can also become unsatisfying. So instead, why not take a train or bus somewhere and run home? Besides providing a change of scenery it will also add to your run the very basic motivation of getting home.
2. Run somewhere else
Another simple way to create a change of scenery is to run your habitual route in the opposite direction. Or just change location altogether, for instance by swapping routes with a friend.
3. Take a running buddy
As every runner knows, the road can get lonely at times. So invite someone along! A friend, your child on a bike, your dog – a companion takes away the isolation and will help you get out of the door when you’re about to succumb to excuses.
4. Listen to music
Music can give you motivation to keep running and having a ‘power song’ to get you through the tough times certainly works.
5. Set a challenge and a reward
“5km in 30 mins” or “10km in 1:05.” Setting a goal outside of races and rewarding yourself for achieving them can make running more fun. Create a bit of competition with yourself, and when you win, treat yourself to dinner or buy new gear. Just make sure it’s a reward worth earning.
6. Join a running community
Be it the running club down the road, a blogging group or an online community, sharing your running experience with others is a proven way to keep yourself motivated. In fact, it’s what can turn running into a lifelong passion.
7. Pick a race
How to get motivated to run like you’ve never ran before? Run in a race. Working towards a race is a great way to structure your running and boost motivation. Building up to an event brings improvement to your performance – a satisfying reward in itself! – and it has the bonus of culminating in a social and fun day out. If you need some help building up your performance responsibly, just start a training program.
8. Run for charity
Make running bigger than yourself and run to raise money for charity. For many runners this has proven to be a very enriching experience, and it’s a great way to stay motivated. Just make sure you pick a charity close to your heart – a cause you’re willing to sweat for.
9. Add another sport
Cross-training can make you a stronger and more balanced runner. Adding low impact sports such as swimming or cycling will add variety to your training and pay dividends to your running. You’ll soon start to notice your own improvement.
10. Run at another time of day
Try varying the time of day when you run. If you’re used to running at night, just try a morning run once a week, or vice versa. It will jolt you out of your routine and bring a different perspective to a familiar route.
