Help!

[Palmy1]

Starting Couch again and need motivation. I’ve done it several times so know all the wonderful benefits..

But, despite changing routes, time of day, playlists etc. I’m finding it hard to start .

Thanks in advance of all your awesome advice

[FriendofRondo Graduate]

What's stopping you?

If it's procrastination "I need to dust the grandfather clock, so I can't possibly go for a run", could you make life easier by starting the day in your running clothes and then leave the house before you have chance to make an excuse?

Fear of failure? After several years of running I still don't believe I can run! But once I'm out there, it's fine. And I've learnt from this board that there's no such thing as a failed run, it's just a practice run!

Need accountability? Log your progress here and there will be lots of us to cheer you on!

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

Make a plan! This week I will run on, say, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. I must go out and at least start, if I don't like it after 15 minutes I can stop.... (I bet you won't!) Think of somewhere nice to run, something you want to see - could just be some flowers in bloom, or a nice tree, whatever floats your boat.

Remember it's only half an hour, and at least it's not January!!

[Palmy1 in reply to Curlygurly2]

Thank you. I will. I’m in Australia, so still warmish here 🙃

[MissUnderstanding Administrator]

It might be helpful to know that this is totally normal! This is hard for all of us.,,even experienced runners. Don’t overthink it-just get your trainers on and go out and do it. Is there anything stopping you going right now?

You are motivated-you’re here saying to want to run. You don’t need to wait to feel more motivated than that. Let the activity do that for you. Sometimes we have to say to ourselves that we’re doing it whatever we feel like and then once we’ve started, that’s when feeling motivated begins.

Good luck!

[Palmy1 in reply to MissUnderstanding]

Thank you. Tomorrow morning I’ll be back out

[Jancanrunagain Graduate in reply to Palmy1]

Our beady eyes are on it! Curly Gurly is right scheduling is the way to go. I also read a tough question which was asking me what was my excuse for not taking my fitness seriously. It got me thinking like many folk I want my body to keep working and for me to have a healthy old age when I pop my clogs one night in my sleep… I am terrified of dying like my dad of Alzheimer’s- I can’t guarantee that running will prevent that outcome but I do know sitting on the sofa thinking about not running for sure will not prevent that outcome

if you love yourself love your body and give it some TLC - you wouldn’t take a car on an 80+ year journey without making sure it was in good enough condition…

[nowster Graduate in reply to Palmy1]

Set your kit out ready the night before so it is waiting for you to wear it in the morning.