lost the bug for running a little

[De48]

Having had the bug for running and completing the c25k in Feb 2022 I’ve been running for over a year and I was well into it but lately maybe running 4/5 times a week, I’ve just lost the bug and I’m down to running maybe once a week what help do you have for me to get this bug back ? I also feel I’ve started to gain weight around my waist and tummy area which is disheartening! Does running actually help this area ?

[Frenc Graduate]

Hello De48 ! I’m always losing the running bug! Then I find it again by varying my routes and mixing it up a bit. It happens every 2 months or so, sometimes less. Why do I put myself through it? Surely this isn’t normal? Flipping ‘eck not another 5am start to beat the heat/make it to work! 🤣. Now I recognise it for what it is and tell myself it’s just a phase. Maybe try something completely different - the NRC have some great and varied guided runs that can perk us up no end. A lot of folk on here like the NRC speed runs and seem to have great fun doing them, so if you haven’t tried one of those, maybe give them a go. I hope you find your mojo again soon! All the best 😊😊😊.

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate]

This happened to me too. I entered a race and that helped motivate me back to consistent training. The Nike Run Club app has been brilliant for me too. I hadn’t realised I was in a bit of a rut until I tried some of their runs. The commentary is really helpful and the variety is great. I’ve loved the speed runs too (but not while it’s so hot!). At the moment I’m doing short, easy runs just to keep things ticking over. It’s easier to keep running when you’re already running regularly! You’ll get there again.

Really good luck with finding that consistency again. Lots of us are aiming for that too on this month’s quest on Bridge to 10k which you’d be most welcome to join.

[Cmoi Graduate]

Hi De48 , good suggestions already about rediscovering your mojo.

The weight gain may well be menopause-related. It might also not be as much as an increase in weight as in where you carry it. While obviously it's not the same for every woman, your body shape can change and you find yourself wondering where your waist went!

Running helps tone you up, but it's unlikely to help you lose weight unless you're doing longer runs at least once a week.

Personally, approaching age 62 and two years on from completing C25K, I'm lighter, stronger, more toned, and happier with my body than I was decades ago.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Why do you run?

Do you enjoy running?

Having some targets or aims for your running can be very helpful in keeping up motivation.

If you just want to have fun, then run in new and exciting places.

Perhaps four or five runs per week is too much and not giving you enough recovery time, so leaving you jaded when you run next.

Did you start to gain weight after you reduced your running?

[Leotigris Graduate]

perhaps try some shorter runs - they may help you to re-motivate?

[Bootsie2020 Graduate]

Hi De48I agree 4-5 runs per week is too many. Maybe stick to every other day as I do, so you always have a rest day between.

I find routine gets me out, regardless of the weather, but if you run with music (that I have to) then mix that up for variety and before you know another run is ticked off.

Regard it as something you are doing for yourself and the pride in running returns.

Let us know how you get on.