Can I ask you about addiction?

[BaddieThePirate]

When I started C25K, it was, literally, addictive. Where has that addiction gone? I need it! Why has my sugar addiction NOT gone? I need it to. This is my rest day after yesterday’s run, so I’m off to do some planks. Erm, going to clean the floor first.😁

[RunaroundSue]

You are right about the running addiction. But sadly I don't have any suggestions for getting it back. Unless you have a target of getting parkun fit ready for when we can run (and breakfast) together.

[BaddieThePirate Graduate in reply to RunaroundSue]

Breakfast! That might do it 😁

[RunaroundSue in reply to BaddieThePirate]

You could have a milkshake!

[BaddieThePirate Graduate in reply to RunaroundSue]

I usually do! I really love the avocado and bacon available at the cafe we went to in Marple Bridge. Seems like years ago now.

[RunaroundSue in reply to BaddieThePirate]

Yes, I like that too. The Norfolk Arms started opening at 9.30 for parkrun with nice breakfasts. A lot more room there.

[nowster Graduate in reply to BaddieThePirate]

That's a bit far south for me for an early start! I'd have to try one a little more local like Chadderton or Heaton Park first.

[Fionamags Graduate]

I don't know - but if you find it let us know where it is. 😉 I wonder if we're all just a bit emotionally weary? I find motivation a bit of a challenge at the moment despite my goal to get back to 10k. So you're not alone.

[BaddieThePirate Graduate in reply to Fionamags]

Yes, emotionally weary is it I think 😕. Summer is on its way though...

[Voldatort Graduate]

I'm still new to it, but I know what I'm liked so post graduation I've reserved some really nice shower gel only to use after 5km plus runs, (I use a cheaper one other times 😁!)and do a weekly challenge on the Nike run club to reach 15km. I also post run selfies and updates to my kids and a few friends on my insta, for accountability- they would ask if they don't see an update for a few days and so that keeps me on track if I feel a bit lazy ! I've not lost very much weight so far, but the thought of running in shorts in the summer is keeping the diet firmly in mind 🙁

[BaddieThePirate Graduate in reply to Voldatort]

All really good ideas.

[lexi6 Graduate]

Being with people again, parkrun and some Vitamin D and afterwards a hearty breakfast fit for a pirate 😊

[Badrun Graduate]

This made me laugh !

[mrrun Graduate]

Initial running addiction is the result of a novelty factor. That's why so many drop out even before they complete C25K. Afterwards it's about long term targets, lifestyle changes and fitness challenges. Not every run will be enjoyable but every run has to be honoured. I had some bad/hard/cold runs during the past winter but I didn't miss any one of them, or cut them short. Sugar addiction? Your call mate. It is doable though.

[TheAwfulToad]

For your lack of running addiction, I suggest a bit of treadmill work. Have a goal - my goal was the British Army basic fitness test as-was (2.4km in 10 minutes 30). You'll be pretty stoked watching your time going down and down, and because you're doing it under controlled conditions you can be certain your improvements are real.

I would suggest sticking to intense runs because anything more than 15-20 mins on a treadmill is just boring.

Sugar addiction, like all other addictions, has a specific protocol for fixing it. Just google "low-carb induction" and by the end of two weeks you'll find your desire for sugar (and carbs generally) is much reduced. The nice thing about breaking sugar addiction is that once it's gone, it's gone. Unlike a recovering alcoholic, you'll be able to enjoy an occasional slice or cake and not feel an overwhelming urge to eat the whole thing.

[BaddieThePirate Graduate in reply to TheAwfulToad]

Can’t fit a treadmill on the boat unfortunately (I’m a pirate, of course I live on a boat). I’ve managed to kick sugar for a couple of weeks at a time, but never managed any longer than that. I love the summer when I can spend hours at the allotment. I forget about food then, apart from the lovely veggies I’m growing. Looking forward to doing that again this year.

[Runningroni Graduate]

Can you put my name down for that park run and breakfast. I prefer your version of planking , it made me laugh out loud. 🏃‍♀️🏴‍☠️

[BaddieThePirate Graduate in reply to Runningroni]

Can’t wait til we can all get together at Parkrun again. I’d like to visit lots of new Parkruns and catch up with more VRBs too...

[Hidden]

There are physical and psychological addictions. Sugar is physically addictive I'm afraid and only cold turkey will work. Once it's out of your system, you won't miss it.Running is psychologically addictive. That is, it is a behaviour that is maintained by reinforcement. So all of the suggestions above are good. Build in some rewards for running (whether that be shower gel or breakfast or meeting up with friends). Doesn't have to be every run (indeed intermittent reinforcement is most powerful), but enough to give positive associations to running. I find that even positive self-talk is enough to motivate me.

Good luck!

[BaddieThePirate Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Thank you. Will try it.

[RunaroundSue]

I have just received this about the Zoe nutrition programme. It might be of interest to you

joinzoe.com/post/tammy-zoe-...

[Cantstopmenow Graduate]

Very interesting replies. Thanks for asking the question. I hope you have found something to motivate and help you. X