Struggling

[Wagper08]

So couldn't get out for a run and then life took over. It's been a week but feels longer. Worried about getting out again and still struggling. Mentally not in great place. Just wish there was a switch to control it and give me back my mojo. X

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

As stated in the guide to the plan, you lose no significant condition in the first two weeks of non running. After that loss of condition is gradual.

All any of us can do after a lay off is to go out for a gentle run and see what we can comfortably manage, then use C25k or something similar to rebuild stamina and resistance to injury.

Every time you run you become stronger, but no runner has an inexorably upward trajectory to their running career.

It should be about fitness, not performance.

Take the pressure off. Relax. Have fun.

[GoogleMe Graduate]

Adding worry about getting out again is perhaps not going to help you to get out again if you are already feeling weighed down. It sounds as though it may all be tied up as part of bigger worries and the reasons for running and that's so rough for you. And yet a wee run would probably really help the way you feel.

One strategy I use which may be helpful to you is to pare down how much you have to do to get ready ie if you are in a position to put on as much of your running gear as possible when you first get dressed rather than having to change. And if you can't get out for a run, get out for a walk, however short.

It's great you are not just shrugging your shoulders and telling yourself you don't have time though - your mojo is still there.

[Wavy-chick28 Graduate]

That mojo is still there! Leave your running stuff out then wake up put it on and go always works for me, don’t set yourself a big goal even if it’s just round the block? Bet once you are out you will run further just for the hell of it. I’ve had a few weeks where life has taken over but you will be surprised that you haven’t lost the ability!

Mostly don’t be hard on yourself x

[Beachcomber66 Graduate]

Wavy-chick has hit the nail on the head. It’s a bit like diving into a pool which you know is slightly colder than you would like….standing on the side looking at it is awful, but once you dive in and get moving, the joy comes flooding back. It’s out there waiting for you 🙂

[Liono Graduate in reply to Beachcomber66]

Lovely analogy!

[Sisteract5 Graduate]

You’re writing on here so, your mojo is in there somewhere. Your body will manage, it’s that first step out of the door that’s the question mark and once you do, I’m sure you’ll be glad you did.I struggle with my mental health too and it isn’t as easy as knowing it makes you feel better - I get it. I found, combined with this app, the Nike Running Club app guided runs have been what’s kept me running. I need the voice of the coach so my mind doesn’t wander to normal daily troubles that can stop me running. I would recommend even listening to one if you’re not running - they’re so supportive and encouraging and definitely keep me running - it has all sorts of runs even a 5 min guided run and makes you feel proud for doing it.

Anyway, I’m rambling. I wish you all the luck jn getting back out there when you’re ready. You can do it - you know you can 😊

[Wagper08 Graduate]

Thanks for the positive comments. I am going to try and get back out and not pressure myself and have fun.

[Razouski]

I know how you feel, my Mojo regularly goes AWOL leaving me feeling rather bereft especially when I have lots to contend with. It can be so hard when you feel you're dealing with so many other things, but if you can put your running stuff out the night before, set your alarm (if you're an early morning runner) and just decide on a short distance/route that you will run then you may find that you can get out there and gradually refund your mojo. After a few weeks off, despite previously running 10km at least 3 times a week, I was so unmotivated I even felt like giving up on running completely.

So I just set myself of doing a 3km jogette with no pressure on speed/time, and just to pod round my local park and a small woodland to see what flowers might be in bloom). I'm gradually working up so this week have managed 6km three times and my Mojo is starting to peak out at and smile at me and is thinking about making a full return.

Good luck.

[Londonlaw72 Graduate]

I find sometimes the trick is to just say to yourself you will do a shorter run or whatever the exercise is you are doing.If you think you have to go and run the full 5k or do an hours yoga or whatever it is, it’s harder to get motivated.

So make it realistic and whatever we do is ok so long as we are doing the best we can at the current time.

I always feel guilty for not doing enough but have learned down time when we feel “off” is just as beneficial to our bodies.

Or just decide to walk around the block.

Once you are out then you will be reminded of how it makes you feel and gradually the motivation and confidence comes back.

Just listen to your body and do what feels right and remember doing something, however little, ultimately does make us feel better than doing nothing but it’s ok to factor in rest and relaxation.

[Lablove Graduate]

Run/don’t run….. but above all don’t beat yourself up what ever you choose. Be kind to yourself and enjoy whatever you do. 😊

[Tazzy_wazzy Graduate]

It’s difficult to get going when you’re talking yourself out of it. Especially if you’re suffering with mental health problems. I find if I splash a bit of water on my face, get my kit on and go first thing in the morning. Once it’s done, you’ll be buzzing for the rest of the day. Try and not be so hard on yourself.

[Mummycav Administrator Graduate]

Not being in a good place mentally is enough to worry about without worrying about your lack of fitness and not getting out there on top of that…be kind to yourself…just a nice gentle run will do…no pressure of time or distance & I’m sure your running will take you to a better place…even if you’re only out 5 mins x