Running motivation waning...

[jaybro28]

I finished c25k beginning of June. I've been running regular 3 or 4 times a week since then (always over 5k) and have done 2 races, but this last week and a half I was on vacation and missed a few runs (though I also added two new states I've now run in). Since getting back from vacation I've just not had much motivation and am missing about 1 run out of 3. When you run out of motivation, how do YOU rekindle it? Set a new goal? Schedule a new race? Buy a new pair of shoes? Something else?

[Tanethra Graduate10]

Definitely set a mid to long term goal like training for a 10k in 4 - 5 months, or vary your running routine like plan a new route, do some interval training or hill intervals, (though only do these one of these a week and not more than 30 min sessions), or swap out one of your run days for some cross training like swimming or circuit training.

Its normal to feel unmotivated and sometimes a rest is just as beneficial so long its not an extended layoff.

[Tomas Graduate10]

I find that scheduled races and plans for how to get ready for them are good at maintaining motivation and carry me over minor slumps, but I have had several longer (as in a couple of months) breaks from running over the last few years. When the longer mojo-failure hits I don't think anything really works to force it back, other than wait until that day when you suddenly *want* again to go for a run. Maybe you're temporarily worn out and just need to be kind to yourself, and then when you're ready you'll spring into action again. I hope so

[jaybro28 Graduate10]

Thanks for the replies guys. Oddly enough, as soon as I posted the question my juvenile rebellious side kicked in and I thought "I don't need others to tell me how to... blah blah" and went and ran my first 10k. I'd already run up to about 5.3 miles naturally through extending my weekly long run. Anyway, thanks for the replies, I'll keep them in mind for the next motivational crisis!

[Hidden in reply to jaybro28]

Or maybe it was posting what done it....

Well done whatever the spur. 10k is pretty impressive 👏

[jaybro28 Graduate10 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Helen! With my messed up psychology, who knows what did it, as long as it does it... say that 10 times fast.

[JaySeeSkinny Graduate10]

My motivation is to think how I will look and feel in one years time if I stop completely. Do I really want to go back to being what I used to be? If I stop it will happen - because it's happened in the past. That usually shifts me out of the door!

[jaybro28 Graduate10 in reply to JaySeeSkinny]

That's a good one. I have a similar one, it's smoking. I know running has already prevented me from going back to that at least twice.

[IannodaTruffe Graduate10]

I think you just answered your own question............ keep posting on these forums..........we will give you the kick if you don't do it yourself.

[runlikeagirl]

I was going to say the same. Coming on here I usually find something that motivates plus also why not so some short but with fast interval runs around 2.5 to 3k? It makes it more interesting for the brain. I love a short sharp run (well, sharper than my average plod shall we say)

[Bazza1234 Graduate10]

Creation of a positive habit (like exercising and looking after yourself ) -- as opposed to a negative habit (like abusing yourself). The most important aspect of running has been for me the creation of a good habit in my life. I read experienced people say that the most important thing about running is that we should be consistent and turn it into a habit of life. I am not really sure how this has happened to me over the past few years - I have never been one to keep up good habits ( like going to the gym, etc) - but running seems to be something that for various reasons for me I have been able to keep on doing until now it is an entrenched habit. Problem for me now is that I am now injured for the first time - and like a habit does, my lack of running is gnawing away at me ( maybe a bit like a substance addict - but in a good way?) So I no longer really need much in the way of motivation - my good habit/addiction now drives me

[jaybro28 Graduate10 in reply to Bazza1234]

I'm definitely a 'habitual' person. Hopefully I follow in your footsteps. I hope you heal up and can get back out there soon!

[misswobble Graduate10]

Good luck Baz for s quick return. You must be getting a bit peed off. Hang in there 🙂

I run regularly because I love doing it. I can't ever imagine not doing it. I do train for races much of the time, which despite bring an old biddy, I love to do. Racing is a right blast. Who knew 😃