Winter running in Charlotte can be less than the best: it’s dark, it’s damp, and sometimes it’s downright cold (at least by some folks’ standards). But those gray mornings don’t have to derail your running goals. Here are 5 ways to stay (or get) motivated before springtime running season eventually blooms around here.
1. Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is
Few things light a fire like having a date circled on the calendar and an entry fee invested. Sign up for something early in the season just to give you some purpose. Local goal events like Charlotte Craft Beer Half, The Around the Crown 10K, or the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon will be here before you know it. Running now will make starting those training plans that much easier.
2. Check Out a New Crew
There’s a good chance there’s at least one or ten weekly organized runs near you. There are literally multiple run club get-togethers every day of the week around here – morning and night. Check out this list here on the Charlotte Running Club website. Bonus: many end with breakfast or beers. Accountability plus community equals consistency.
3. Mix It Up
It doesn’t always have to be about running. Winter is a great time to try new activities. Whether it’s swimming or pickleball or anything to get you up and moving; it’s a good thing. Adding a cross-training day (or two) can make your spring races stronger and keep overuse injuries in check.
4. Get Professional Help
Having trouble creating your own motivation? Coaches and personal trainers literally get paid to keep you on task. Whether you’re looking for a virtual training partner, a group training program, or an actual-factual, in-person coach… you’ve got options. Our friends at Cross Conditioning Training or Forward Motion would be happy to make some recommendations.
5. Treat Yo’ Self
It’s not just for October 13th anymore. When you hit a milestone— like a perfect week of workouts, a mileage goal, or whatever – find a way to treat yourself and celebrate these off-season wins. Grab brunch or a coffee with friends, go to bed early one night, have zero guilt about checking out that new series everyone’s been binging. Little rewards can keep your routine sustainable and fun.
And Remember Your “Why”
Whether you run for your health, community, or peace of mind, your “why” still matters. Even in January and February. Take a minute to reconnect with that concept before each run. Every cold mile in January builds the foundation for a better, healthier, happier you come spring.
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